Bus Accidents
Buses are a comfortable, cost-effective and environmentally friendly form of transportation. However, over the past few years, bus accidents have been on the rise. This is due in part to the increasing number of charter bus operators. As of 2017, there are around 4,500 private charter bus companies throughout North America.
Types of Buses
There are many buses on the road, but these are among the most common.
Double decker bus
Executive/day coach
Tour bus
Trolley
Event rental/party bus
Travel bus, such as Greyhound
No matter their use, the vast majority of charter buses have one thing in common: They do not have seatbelts, nor does the law require them to have seatbelts.
In 2013, the FMCSA created regulations that require all new motor coaches and other large buses to be equipped with a 3-point lap/shoulder safety belt. The rule is not retroactive and did not go into effect until 2016. Therefore, most types of charter buses out on the road today do not have seatbelts.
The charter bus industry has fought long and hard against government regulation. They claim if they were forced to retrofit their older buses with seatbelts, it would put them out of business in the highly competitive bus industry.
The most common reasons for a bus accident include driver negligence through error, fatigue, aggressive or distracted driving, or when there has been a mechanical failure or inadequate maintenance. If a charter bus accident does occur, tour operators, tour bus companies and other related organizations can be held liable for your injuries.
University of Washington Charter Bus Accident
After successfully representing victims of the Ride the Ducks and Mi Joo bus accidents, we are currently representing victims of the UW band bus accident.
The band’s charter bus crashed and rolled over on Thanksgiving, 2018, near George, Washington. Traveling eastbound on I-90, the driver lost control. The bus went into the ditch on the right shoulder, then rolled, and came to rest on its side. The driver was cited for driving too fast for conditions, according to the Washington State Patrol.
The Husky Marching Band was on its way to the Apple Cup in Pullman. There are 56 people on board, and 47 were transported to local hospitals.
Washington State Bus Accident Attorneys
After a bus accident, insurance companies will usually attempt to contact the victims immediately. This is why it is critical for accident victims to seek legal counsel. The insurance company is not on your side.
In bus crashes, like other accidents, insurance companies may use tactics to convince you to settle for less than you deserve. You need experienced legal representatives who understand the law and are on your side.
Our attorneys are on your side, we care about you. We will fight for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact the Herrmann Law Group as soon as possible for a free legal consultation.
We won nine million dollars in the Ride the Ducks bus crash and more than ten million dollars in the Mi Joo bus crash. Please see our firm record.
Call (206) 625-9104 to speak to an attorney or complete this form and we will contact you within 24 hours.