Connecticut was the scene of two bus accidents occurring just weeks apart. In both cases, passengers suffered injuries, raising questions about the buses’ safety records.
A crash in early February in Madison involved a tour bus going to Mohegan-Sun Casino. Dozens of passengers were injured, several critically. The bus is operated by Dahlia Group, Inc., which received safety citations 35 times in 20 months, according to a Fox 61 report.
On March 27, there was a collision between a car and a Greyhound tour bus in North Stonington. This bus was also traveling to a casino. Several bus passengers suffered minor injuries, and the car’s passenger went to the hospital.
What makes bus accidents different?
Bus crashes have the potential to cause catastrophic or fatal injuries to bus passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists. The sheer weight and size of a bus means that even a minor collision can result in serious injuries.
Bus passengers may suffer injuries if they fall down or are thrown from their seats in an accident. They may also hit the sides or ceiling of the bus, especially if the bus tips over. These types of accidents may result in broken bones, neck and back injuries, head and brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
People who suffer catastrophic injuries typically need long-term medical treatment, which may include:
- Multiple surgeries
- Long hospital stays
- Rehabilitative therapy
- Vocational therapy
The cost of this type of medical care is expensive, even with health insurance. Injury victims and their families need financial compensation from the negligent party to cover their medical bills.
If they cannot return to work because of their injuries, they also need compensation for lost income and benefits. Perhaps a family member has to stop working to care for the injured person. In these cases, the family may lose both incomes.
In most cases, people need an attorney’s help to recover sufficient compensation. Speak with a lawyer if you have questions.
