Boston Bus Accident Attorney

There are many potential causes of bus accidents in the Boston area. And the cause of the accident will be important as you begin the process of filing a claim for your injury. Some of the leading causes of bus accidents include:

• Driver negligence
• MBTA negligence
• Bad weather
• Vehicle fires

Bus driver negligence can include failing to follow the laws of the road, such as speed limit or signaling for a lane change, or driving when fatigued or distracted by an electronic device like a cell phone. Buses are outfitted with an array of mirrors to allow drivers a clear field of vision. Each time a driver enters a bus, it is his or her responsibility to adjust the mirrors and check for full visibility before driving anywhere. In addition, during training, bus drivers are taught to lean in various directions to increase and improve visibility when driving and especially when making turns.

Often times, the company that owns the bus is also financially responsible for the acts of its drivers. Negligence on the part of the company could be in the maintenance and care of the vehicles, in the training and expectation placed on the drivers, or even in a lack of necessary safety equipment.

Bad weather is not uncommon in Boston, especially in winter weather driving, and MBTA bus drivers need to be well-trained in handling these adverse conditions in a safe manner. Simple precautions, such as driving at a lower rate of speed, allowing for greater stopping distance, and accounting for poor visibility are all the responsibility of the driver in poor weather.

Buses are required to be equipped with fire extinguishers as well as multiple exits. It is the responsibility of the driver to check for safety devices before a trip, and it is also the responsibility of the owner of the bus to maintain safety equipment in fully functional condition.