If you don’t have your own motor vehicle or simply prefer public transportation, it’s nice to know that there are options available to you. For example, if you reside in or around Denver, you can rely on the Regional Transportation District to help get around the Denver metro or if you are in Cheyenne, WY, you might use Cheyenne Transit Authority to travel around the city.
However, just the same as operating a motor vehicle, you’re always at risk of injury in a bus accident. This typically occurs if the bus you’re riding on is involved in an accident.
Here are some of the most common causes of bus accidents:
- Bus driver fatigue
- Reckless driving, such as excessive speeding and/or running red lights
- Faulty vehicle or equipment
- Driver error
- Distracted driving
- Drug and/or alcohol use
All of these things put you at risk, however, there’s nothing you can really do about it. For example, if you realize that your bus driver is driving recklessly, you don’t have the option of taking over the wheel. The best thing you can do is get off the bus as quickly as you can or call 9-1-1 for help.
Here are some safety tips you can use when traveling on public transportation, such as a bus:
- Take extra caution when you’re boarding and getting off the bus, as this is where many slip and fall accidents occur
- Choose a seat and stay there while the bus is in motion (standing up results in a loss of stability)
- Always use handrails when walking down the aisle, especially if the bus is in motion
- Don’t get too close to the bus driver (there’s a line you shouldn’t cross when the bus is moving)
- Don’t block the aisle, such as by placing your briefcase or legs in the way of others
These are all things you can to do enhance your safety when traveling by bus. With these tips guiding you, you’ll have more confident in your ability to prevent injury in a bus accident.
If you’re a passenger when a bus crashes, regardless of the cause, stay where you are (if it makes sense to do so) to check yourself for injuries. You can then take the appropriate action in seeking medical treatment, learning more about the cause of the accident and protecting your legal rights.