If a bus is defective in its design or malfunctions because of a faulty part, and results in a bus accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for victims’ damages.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the agency that oversees safety standards in the auto manufacturing industry and national recalls. If the company sells a defective vehicle, it puts thousands and thousands of people at risk.
Bus Crashes Caused by Manufacturer Defects
While uncommon, bus accidents are sometimes caused because of an inherent defect. Below are a few examples of errors that can lead to bus accidents and injuries.
• Seat belts that don’t function correctly, or a lack of seat belts
• Defective tires
• Deficient brakes
• Engine problems
• Mechanical defects
• Defective seat anchors
• Steering or suspension system issues
• Defects in the disability accessibility equipment
• Faulty emergency exits
• Lacking structural integrity and poor crashworthiness
Do you have a valid case to pursue compensation?
Bus accidents don’t just happen. They aren’t really “accidents” because someone is usually at fault. If you were injured in a bus crash, there is a good chance that you will be able to take legal action and pursue compensation for your damages.
If you believe that a manufacturing defect is what caused your bus accident, we encourage you to call our office for a consultation. We will review your case and determine if the following required elements are present so that we can help you file a product liability claim or lawsuit.
- Duty of care: The manufacturer must have owed you a duty of care. This element is easily satisfied just by selling the product.
- Breach of duty: The manufacturer failed to uphold their duty, i.e., it acted unreasonably or negligently and issued a bus or bus component that was flawed and imposed risk for users (passengers).
- Causation: The defect is what caused the accident to occur. If the bus had a defect, but it had nothing to do with the crash or our injuries; the case won’t be substantiated.
- Injury: You suffered actual injuries as a result of the manufacturer’s actions. You can’t seek compensation for damages if you weren’t harmed.
There May Be More than One Liable Party
In many bus accidents, it’s not just the manufacturer that can be held accountable, but also the bus company. Your attorney can determine which parties to file suit against and help you determine the value of your claim. Contact Cordisco & Saile LLC using our online form or call us to begin work (215) 642-2335.
