Understanding Bus Injuries While Boarding or Disembarking (PDF)
In the realm of bus accidents, the potential risks associated with embarking and disembarking are often overshadowed. While collisions, while the bus is in motion, are more commonly recognized as culprits of severe passenger injuries, it’s crucial not to underestimate the dangers of tripping, slipping, or falling during the boarding or disembarking process. These incidents can result in grave injuries to the face, head, neck, back, hands, or wrists, necessitating extensive medical treatment and leading to temporary or permanent disabilities. If you’ve experienced such an injury while entering or exiting a bus, it’s imperative to consult an experienced bus accident attorney who can guide you on safeguarding your rights.
Unearthing the Causes: Understanding Boarding and Disembarkation Injuries
Boarding and disembarking a bus involves navigating the curb, and street surface, and ascending or descending the stairs, making it surprisingly easy to encounter slip-and-fall accidents. Several common causes of these injuries include:
- Missing or broken handrails
- Malfunctioning doors
- Attempting to board or disembark before the bus has come to a complete stop
- Potholes
- Absence of caution treads
- Broken stairs
- Wet and slippery stairs
- Broken concrete curbs
- Departing before all passengers have safely boarded
- Passengers attempting to board before others have fully disembarked
It’s important to note that some causes may not be the fault of the bus driver or company. For instance, they have no control over the condition of curbs or asphalt, which can contribute to passengers tripping and falling. However, bus companies should take responsibility for ensuring the appropriate safety measures, such as providing proper safety treads on stairs and ensuring functioning doors and handrails. Bus drivers should also ensure the bus has come to a complete stop before opening the doors, prioritize the safe disembarkation of passengers before allowing new ones to board, and confirm that all passengers have safely boarded before departing.
Determining Liability: Seeking Justice for Bus Accident Injuries
If you’ve suffered an injury while boarding or disembarking a bus, it may not be immediately clear whether the driver or the bus company is responsible. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a knowledgeable bus accident attorney who can carefully evaluate your circumstances and determine if you have a viable claim.
Safety Tips for Boarding and Disembarking
The most effective way to avoid injuries while boarding or disembarking a bus is to prioritize your own safety. Here are some essential safety tips to protect yourself:
- Make sure you arrive at the bus stop in advance to avoid rushing.
- Before approaching the bus, wait until the doors have opened and the bus has completely stopped.
- Passengers should be allowed to exit the bus before attempting to board.
- When boarding or alighting, use handrails and exercise caution.
- When locating your seat or moving toward the exit, use the seatbacks and other available handholds.
- Seat yourself throughout your journey to ensure stability and minimize risks.
- Allow enough time for the driver to safely stop before activating the stop signal.
- When the bus has fully stopped, stand up from your seat.
- Once the bus has departed, move to the nearest sidewalk and refrain from crossing the street.
While following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of injury, accidents can still occur. If you find yourself injured despite taking precautionary measures, waste no time in reaching out to a bus accident attorney for expert guidance.
What to Do if You’re Injured While Boarding or Disembarking
The outcome of your case hinges on the evidence you can gather. If possible, collect the following documentation:
- Copies of accident reports filed by the police, driver, or bus company
- Bus camera footage, if available
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Copies of medical records detailing your injuries
Although this might seem overwhelming, it’s crucial to act swiftly to protect your rights. By enlisting the help of a bus accident attorney, you can have the evidence collected and focus on your recovery with peace of mind.
Talk to an ATLINJ Georgia Lawyer
ATLINJ Georgia’s lawyers can be instrumental in successfully navigating the claims process. From determining eligibility and collecting evidence to negotiating with insurers and appealing denied claims, an experienced attorney can maximize your benefits and provide the support you need. By alleviating the legal burden, they allow you to focus on your recovery and secure the compensation you deserve.
