A large number of people who call Chicago home do not own a personal vehicle and instead opt for public transportation on a daily basis and during longer trips. Among those that do own cars, public transit also may be an attractive option due to the large number of options, like trains, buses, and planes as well as the flexible schedules offered. With traffic a constant issue in the city and the surrounding areas, it may not be surprising that millions take advantage of public transit in Chicago and across Illinois every year.
One popular option of transit for those looking to leave the city is riding by bus. Greyhound and Megabus are among the large providers that service the Chicago area and are heavily used. When riders board a Chicago area bus, they put their safety in the hands of the bus driver, the operating company, and any other individuals and entities in charge of maintaining the safety of the vehicle. But few think in these terms – they book a ticket, board a bus, and relax. Unfortunately, numerous bus accidents occur every year in Chicago and many of them result in injuries to the passengers on board. Whether multiple buses collide, a crash involves a bus and a private vehicle, or a one-bus accident results, the damages can be significant, especially in buses that do not offer seat belts for passengers.
When a crash occurs and a passenger is injured, the victims may not understand their legal rights or whether they have a valid claim for relief. Consulting with a Chicago personal injury lawyer may help you understand your options, including whether you may be entitled to financial payment, if you have been involved in a bus accident.
A bus operated by Megabus traveling from Atlanta to Chicago was in Indiana on Tuesday morning when the driver swerved to avoid a collision, causing the bus to roll over and leaving at least 18 people injured. The incident occurred on I-65 around 4:30 a.m. and reportedly involved between 50 and 60 passengers in addition to the driver.
Local police responded to the scene to assess the accident and assist the victims. It appears that the driver did not notice the prior accident initially, possibly due in part to rain, and noticed it just before an impact would have occurred. When the driver swerved, the road was wet from rain and the bus rolled onto its side. The double-decker bus reportedly sent several people airborne as the crash occurred and left passengers with head injuries, broken and fractured bones, broken glass imbedded in wounds, and other injuries.
Officials have not stated whether any traffic citations or other charges will be issued as a result of this incident but they have confirmed that their investigation is ongoing at this time. Early reports indicate that two drivers were present on the bus and that it does not appear that the driver behind the wheel exceeded the maximum standards for continuous operation.
The victims of Megabus accidents may suffer injuries that range from minor bumps and bruises to serious, debilitating conditions that can last a lifetime. In some cases, including several in the last four years, Megabus accidents turn fatal. When an accident occurs and an innocent victim or a victim’s family suffers, financial relief may be possible.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we believe in fighting for the rights of those who have been hurt in traffic accidents and we want to help you as well. If a bus accident in Illinois has affected your life, call us today toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and let us provide you with a free, no obligation case consultation regarding your injuries. Everything discussed will be kept confidential and we are standing by 24 hours a day.
If a bus accident left you hurt, call Abels & Annes, P.C. today and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Alcohol Suspected in Chicago Crash that Claimed Man’s Arm, Then His Life, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 13, 2014.
Prior Blog Entry:
At Least 18 Hurt When Chicago-Bound Megabus Overturns in Indiana, NBC 5 Chicago, published October 14, 2014.