Bus and Public Transportation Accidents

Facts About Bus and Public Transportation Safety

According the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), millions of people throughout the country rely on buses for transportation; in fact, over 6 million people took bus trips in the last year alone. Taking a bus instead of driving means less traffic, and offers the convenience of being able to read a book, balance your checkbook, or just gaze out the window as you ride from one place to the next. But what about safety? Each year, about 63,000 buses are involved in accidents, injuring over 14,000 people. Whether you’re taking the local bus home from work, or taking a charter bus for sightseeing, safety is important.

Today’s buses are equipped to be safer and more efficient than ever before. Significant improvements that increase rider satisfaction and safety include:

• Smart buses allow transportation companies to track and manage their fleet. It monitors real time information regarding arrival times for passengers waiting at bus stops, as well as streams the information over the internet
• Better traffic signals reduce accidents with other drivers by improving visibility
• Computer controlled diagnostics identifies problems before emergency maintenance is needed.
• Increased security through video surveillance and two way radio contact with local police and emergency medical services.

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Things To Do For A Safer Bus Trip

The federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (MCSA) works to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related accidents and injuries. To increase bus safety, the MCSA advises passengers do the following:

• Know your bus company. Whether traveling by public transportation or on a commercial charter, know the bus company’s general policies and procedures, as well as those policies specifically regarding safety and emergency situations.
• Know your driver. Make sure your driver has a commercial license and a clean, safe driving history.
• Plan a safe trip. Know the rules on your bus and follow them. Refrain from engaging in rowdy or distracting behavior, and be considerate of the driver and other passengers.

Contact Our Experienced South Carolina Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus or public transportation accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm. Our experienced South Carolina accident attorneys will fight to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We have offices located in Charleston and throughout South Carolina. Call us today for a free review of your case.