In an effort to reduce costs and impact on the environment, many people turn to alternative forms of transportation, including commercial buses. They do so thinking that they will be safe as they take to California roadways. Unfortunately, while these vehicles have many benefits, they are still susceptible to bus and truck accidents. Police in California are currently investigating a recent accident involving a bus that took the lives of two people.
The accident happened just before 7 a.m. one morning in January. A motorist following the bus claims that the bus entered the carpool lane before going airborne and landing on a median. Two people, including a 51-year-old woman, died in the accident. Several others were hospitalized due to injuries.
Passengers in the bus reportedly told investigators that they noticed the driver, a 58-year-old man, dozing off prior to the accident. Reports indicate that the driver admitted that he was fatigued and had previously stopped to purchase coffee at a gas station. The accident, which resulted in approximately 40 fire fighters responding to the scene, has been described has a “large incident” and closed multiple lanes of traffic for several hours.
Unfortunately, bus and truck accidents can take the lives of innocent people, leaving family members coping with life without their loved ones. Those who do survive often spend a significant period of time in the hospital, facing extensive medical bills while coping with loss of wages. To help with the financial implications of a commercial vehicle accident caused by a negligent driver, many people in California seek recompense in a civil court. An experienced personal injury attorney can help determine all responsible parties and help victims — including family members of the deceased — take appropriate legal action.
Source: San Jose Mercury News, “San Jose bus crash: Greyhound driver admits to fatigue before deadly overturn“, Mark Gomez and Robert Salonga, Jan. 19, 2016