Personal Injury When Getting On/Off the Bus: What To Do

Between 1998 and 2019, bus accidents led to 6,770 deaths and 567,000 injuries in the US.

According to a report by the U.S. Department of Transportation, around 183 bus crashes occur daily, or 67,000 accidents each year. 

However, bus accidents aren’t just about collisions with other vehicles while in motion. There’s another type of accident that often gets overlooked – injuries during the simple acts of boarding or exiting the bus.

Trips, slips, or falls in these situations can lead to serious harm, like injuries to the face, head, neck, back, hands, or wrists. Such accidents might need long-term medical care, and can even result in temporary or permanent disabilities.

If you’ve had a mishap while getting on or off a bus, it’s important to understand your rights. Reach out to skilled personal injury attorneys specializing in bus accidents to discuss your options. 

A lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure your rights are well-protected.

Causes of Injuries Related to Bus Accidents

Getting on and off the bus requires you to deal with curbs and the state of the street surface. 

Unfortunately, it’s easier than you’d think to slip, trip, or fall during these simple actions. Here’s a list of common causes that can lead to injuries while getting on or off a bus:

• Absence of or damaged handrails
• Bus doors not working properly
• Trying to board or leave the bus before it’s fully stationary
• Stairs that are wet and slippery
• Cracked or broken curbs
• Potholes on the street
• Lack of caution treads
• Damaged stairs on the bus
• The bus begins movement  before a passenger has fully boarded
• People trying to get on the bus before others have finished exiting

Not all of these causes are the fault of the bus driver or company. For example, they can’t control the condition of the curb or road which may trip you up while you’re getting on or off the bus.

However, the bus company has a duty to keep their buses in a safe condition. 

This means ensuring that stairs have suitable safety treads and that doors and handrails work as they should. Also, drivers must ensure they’ve fully stopped before opening the doors, must let passengers off before letting others board, and must double-check everyone’s safety onboard before they drive off.

If you’ve been injured in such an accident, figuring out who’s to blame can be tricky – the driver or the company. That’s when personal injury attorneys with good knowledge of the field can come in handy. They can examine your case closely and help determine if you have a valid claim.

Tips to Safely Get On/Off the Bus

To stay safe while taking the bus, it’s important to be aware of your own actions. Here are a few simple tips to help you avoid any accidents:

• Arrive at the bus stop with some time to spare so you’re not rushing to catch the bus
• Only approach the bus once it’s fully stopped and the doors are open
• Let exiting passengers get off first before you attempt to get on
• Be cautious as you step onto or off the bus, and make good use of the handrail
• Hold onto seatbacks or other rails while finding a seat or heading to the exit
• Try to stay seated for the entirety of your journey
• Hit the stop request early enough so the driver can stop smoothly
• Don’t stand up from your seat until the bus has completely stopped
• After getting off the bus, head straight to the nearest sidewalk, and don’t try to cross the street until the bus has moved on

Following these safety guidelines can certainly lower your chances of getting hurt, but let’s face it, accidents can still occur. If you find yourself injured while getting on or off a bus, despite doing everything right, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lawyer specializing in bus accidents. They’re here to help.

What to Do When Injured Getting On or Off the Bus

The result of your case depends on the evidence you’re able to collect. If possible, try to gather:

• Copies of any accident reports made by the police, the driver, or the bus company
• Any footage captured by bus cameras
• Statements from witnesses who saw what happened
• Copies of your medical records which show your injuries

Don’t worry if all this seems a bit too much. The fact is, it’s vital to act fast to safeguard your rights. Personal injury attorneys experienced in bus accidents can take on the task of gathering all the evidence needed for your case, leaving you free to concentrate on getting better.

Conclusion

Bus-related injuries, especially during boarding or exiting, are a real concern. Ensuring your safety is paramount, and understanding your rights in such situations is crucial. Even with all precautions, accidents can occur, so knowing the steps to take post-accident and having professional legal support on your side is vital. 

Remember, personal injury attorneys specialized in bus accidents are here to guide you through this challenging time and fight for the compensation you deserve.

FAQs

Q: What happens if you get injured on a bus?

If you get injured on a bus, seek medical attention immediately. Document your injuries and the incident details. Then, consult a lawyer to discuss potential compensation claims against the bus company or other responsible parties.

Q: What precautions should you take during a bus accident?

During a bus accident, stay calm, protect your head and neck, and follow the driver’s instructions. After the incident, document the scene, gather witness information, and seek medical help.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for injury when getting on/off the bus?

Hiring a lawyer can be beneficial if you’ve been injured getting on/off a bus. They can help navigate complex legal issues, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Q: How can a lawyer help me in the case of an injury when getting on/off the bus?

A lawyer can assist in gathering evidence, filing a lawsuit, and representing your interests in court. They can evaluate your case, determine liability, and help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries when getting on/off a bus.