Liability is often unclear when a bus accident occurs. If another vehicle caused the bus wreck, though, then that driver’s insurance company may be held liable for injuries. Here’s what you need know about liability in a bus crash.
Filing a Claim with the Bus Insurance Company
Buses in the state of Pennsylvania are required to carry insurance. Interstate for-hire buses that carry 16 or more passengers must carry $5,000,000 in insurance; buses with 15 or fewer passengers are required to hold $1.5 million in insurance.
School buses and commuter vehicles that seat less than 16 passengers do not have to adhere to these high amounts. For buses in Pennsylvania that are not traveling across state borders, only the minimum amount of insurance coverage is required (the same amount for cars).
If the bus carries medical expenses insurance or uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to file a claim with their insurance company, even if the bus/bus driver was not at fault for the accident. If the bus/bus driver in any way contributed to the accident’s occurrence, then their insurance should pay for injuries.
When the Driver is Liable
If the driver of the other vehicle was the sole party responsible for the bus accident, then the driver’s insurance company will most likely handle paying for your injuries. In Pennsylvania, drivers are required to carry $15,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $30,000 in bodily injury liability per accident.
If the driver is found to be liable for the accident, their insurance will kick in. Liability is based on negligence or acting in a way that is considered unreasonable in terms of safety.
A few examples of negligence.
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- Driving drunk
However, if multiple people are hurt, it’s unlikely that the minimum amount of $30,000 will cover everyone’s injuries. As such, you have the right to file a civil suit for damages against any negligent parties.
Some negligent parties in bus accidents.
- The bus driver
- The bus company
- A mechanic
Speak with an Attorney Before Taking Further Action
Before you take further action, you should speak with an attorney. Often, more than one party is liable for a bus accident – an attorney can help you determine if that’s the case. If it is, the attorneys at Cordisco & Saile LLC can help you file the right claims and recover your full damages amount. Reach our team now at 215-642-2335.
