Ever wondered why buses don’t have seatbelts? The short answer is that passengers don’t need seat belts as buses are designed to ensure safety as they utilize ‘compartmentalization’ to keep those onboard safe. However, it’s still crucial for commuters to know that bus accidents can occur anytime, and even the bus’ safety features won’t be able to completely prevent injuries from occurring, especially during high-impact collisions and crashes.
Bus accidents are more common than you think, as there are around 63,000 accidents each year in the US that involve buses (school buses, public transportation buses, and so on). Accidents can occur either due to the bus driver’s fault, another vehicle, mechanical issues or even because of damages on the road. As such, every regular commuter needs to know what to do after a bus accident.
#1 Immediately Call 911
As soon as you’re able, grab your phone and call emergency services to report the incident. Don’t expect the driver or other passengers to make the call; also, you shouldn’t hesitate to call even if you notice or hear another person calling. You may be shaken a bit due to the accident, but operators are trained to guide you through the call and get the information they need to send help to your location quickly. This should also serve as a reminder that, when you commute, you need to travel with a charged phone and have it on your person or at arm’s reach at all times.
#2 Personally Check for Injuries
If you’re with another person, particularly a loved one, your instinct may be to check up on them immediately. However, it’s vital that you first check yourself for injuries before you make any drastic movements or exert yourself to avoid aggravating the injury.
In some cases, you may not feel any pain due to the adrenaline rush, which is precisely why you should carefully inspect your person for any sign of injury first. If you’re able, take pictures whenever you can or keep a recording as it will be useful later on when you’re making an injury claim.
#3 Get Checked
If you’re injured or are in pain, request to be taken to the emergency room right away once emergency services arrive. But even if you don’t feel any pain, it’s still recommended for you to get yourself checked with a medical professional as injuries may not manifest immediately. If it’s found that you’ve suffered an injury, it’s important to contact get an attorney that has experience with these particular cases. For example, if you’ve suffered head trauma during the accident, look for an attorney in Los Angeles that specializes in brain injuries. Keep a record of all expenses you may incur after the accident, such as transportation, for your medical checkup, and so on.
#4 Gather Evidence
If possible, try to share and exchange numbers and contact information with other passengers, and also acquire the bus driver’s information as your attorney may need it later on when processing the claim. It’s also vital to secure records of your medical checkups, as well.
#5 Coordinate With Your Attorney
Don’t accept calls or deals from insurance agents or the bus company or any party involved in the accident. You must talk to your attorney prior first to ensure that you get the best possible deal and so that you’re adequately compensated for the injuries and personal damages sustained.
Conclusion
Bus accidents occur more often than you think, and you should be aware of what to do when it happens to keep yourself safe and be properly compensated for any damages caused by the incident.
