An MTA bus struck a pedestrian outside of a Nashville bus terminal last month, but the nightmare didn’t stop there. After striking the woman, the bus dragged her across the pavement at least 50 yards before the driver knew what was happening and came to a stop. This horrific bus accident left the pedestrian with life-threatening injuries.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF BUS ACCIDENTS?
Per the Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics, there are at least 900,000 buses in the United States, which includes transit buses, charter buses and school buses. Unfortunately, there are at least 63,000 bus accidents which result in approximately 12,00 injuries each year. Data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security shows there are roughly 220 bus accidents each year in Davidson County alone. Many these accidents can be caused by the following:
- Bus driver fatigue
- Aggressive driving, which can include speeding and following too closely
- Distracting passengers
- A bus driver who is impaired by alcohol or drugs
- A bus driver who is on the phone while driving
- Driver error, which can include failure to check blind spots, making too wide of turns or drifting out of the lane
- Tire blowouts
- Faulty brakes
- Other mechanical failures
Due to the size and possible speed, bus accidents often result in devastating and life-changing injuries, especially when pedestrians are involved. That said, transit companies have a responsibility to ensure they run thorough background checks and ensure all their drivers receive ample training.
Additionally, they must ensure that their buses are regularly inspected and receive proper maintenance before putting a driver and dozens of passengers on them. In turn, it is up to the drivers to remember they often provide transportation for many people at one time and must take this responsibility seriously. They must follow the law and drive cautiously to avoid putting themselves and passengers at risk.
Stanley A. Davis is a Nashville personal injury lawyer who fights for those who have been injured in transportation accidents. We have been helping those who need it since 1997 and offer free consultations.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peach of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Source: https://wkrn.com/2016/10/28/woman-hit-by-mta-bus-possibly-dragged-down-5th-avenue/