In 2017, public buses transported over 4.7 billion passengers, but not everyone arrived at their destination safely. What would you do if you were a victim of a bus accident or a pedestrian struck by a bus? While no one expects to become a victim of an accident, it happens altogether too frequently. The first step in protecting yourself in this situation begins before you even board the bus. Having some knowledge of the insurance the bus carries may be your first step to mitigating damages should you become a victim of a bus crash.
Buses can travel intrastate or interstate, and whether they cross state lines or not will determine how much coverage the bus may carry. While most buses carry more than 8 passengers, smaller buses are typically required to only carry a minimum of $1.5 million dollars of insurance. While this sounds like a lot of money, once it gets divided by 8 or more passengers it becomes frighteningly insufficient. Larger buses usually have a $5 million-dollar policy, but if the bus is full, this too becomes inadequate for potential damages. More reputable commercial bus carriers will be better insured. Avoid any carriers that are unknown or look risky.
If you or a loved are injured in a bus accident, you should seek legal consultation to protect your rights and gain compensation for your damages.
Benny Agosto, Jr. is a partner at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner in Houston, Texas. For over 68 years, Abraham Watkins has successfully represented injured people and families who fall victim to catastrophes. Our attorneys have the knowledge, experience and resources necessary to obtain just compensation their clients. For more information, please contact the office of Benny Agosto, Jr. at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, by letter at 800 Commerce Street, Houston, Texas 77002, or by phone at (713) 222-7211.