Semi-trucks and tractor-trailers are not the only types of large vehicles that can be involved in dangerous or tragic accidents. Passenger busses are similar in size and weight to some commercial vehicles, and accidents involving busses can be especially dangerous when considering their human cargo. A recently occurring accident involving a school bus with children onboard is a reminder of the risks of being on the road alongside large vehicles, and the importance of safe driving in general.
According to a local news report discussing the accident, a school bus was traveling on the roadway taking children home from a summer program when traffic in front of the bus abruptly stopped. A child on the bus told reporters that the bus driver was unable to stop in time to avoid colliding with the cars in front of it, and the accident occurred. After the initial collision, several cars that were behind the school bus crashed into the school bus. Emergency crews responded to the scene of the crash and at least two people were hospitalized with injuries from the crash. Fortunately, no children were injured in the crash, and nobody was seriously injured or killed.
Maryland drivers are responsible to follow other vehicles at a safe distance. To prevent a rear-end collision, it is generally the responsibility of drivers to leave enough distance in between them and the car in front of them to prevent a crash if any car abruptly stops. Drivers operating large or heavily loaded vehicles that may not stop as quickly as other vehicles have a responsibility to allow enough distance between themselves and other vehicles to account for their own increased stopping distance. In the event that a rear-end accident occurs after a following vehicle fails to stop in time, the driver of the vehicle that didn’t stop can be cited for following too closely.
When Can Maryland Accident Victims Sue the At-Fault Driver?
Injured victims of rear-end accidents can seek recovery from drivers who negligently followed them too closely and caused the accident by pursuing a Maryland personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for any injuries and loss incurred as a result of the crash. The insurance companies who represent at-fault drivers who cause rear-end accidents may be resistant to pay out damages on their client’s behalf, but the driver has a legal responsibility to compensate victims of their negligence, and their insurance company must step in to pay the damages and costs of any covered loss.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Bus Accident?
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident involving a bus or other large vehicle, whether driving or as a passenger, the Maryland personal injury attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC. can help you pursue a claim and file a personal injury lawsuit. Our experienced Maryland truck accident attorneys have recovered over $65 million for our clients, and you won’t pay us a penny unless we recover for you. Contact our offices to schedule a free consultation by calling at 800-654-1949 and take the first step toward obtaining the compensation that you deserve