Bus  and taxi accidents have a special potential to be catastrophic. Much like other commercial travel options such as airliners or passenger trains, any crash can easily result in serious injuries or death. Buses and taxi cabs often do not require the same protection that private passenger automobiles provide in the form of seat belts or air bags.

While some commercial bus lines may have seat belts, they may not enforce their use, and school buses most often lack them altogether, despite the fact they carry small children.  Some city buses and other mass transit options, like trains, even allow passengers to stand.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a bus accident, call the attorney Robert Reeves at 704.351.7979 for a free consultation and to get the legal help you need.

Bus and taxi accident plaintiffs may be able to sue on a number of theories or factors including:

• Negligence of the bus or taxi driver
• Negligence of other drivers (third party claims)
• Inappropriate or dangerous operating conditions
• Defective vehicle (possible products liability case)
• Improper maintenance
• Negligent driver training or supervision
• Negligent or careless operation
• Equipment and buses that should not have been in operation

Aside from claims arising out of a bus accident, bus lines, like other businesses, are responsible for keeping their customers safe while waiting to embark.  If an individual is injured while on a bus or in a bus station, they may have a premises liability or negligent security claim against the bus operator.

Similarly, there are private companies or medical facilities which provide transport services. In these cases, it is imperative that already vulnerable individuals be securely restrained in large ambulances or vehicles. It is also critical that there be appropriate medical personnel on board in case a medical emergency arises en route to the facility. We have handled cases in the past where someone, already injured or suffering from a medical condition, is “dropped” from a wheelchair or stretcher causing even more serious injury to that patient.

Those who are involved in a personal injury accident, including buses, taxis, or medical transport, may be entitled to recover:

• Past and future medical bills
• Past and future lost wages
• Wrongful death
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Mental and emotional disability
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Property loss