Pedestrians struck by buses face devastating injuries due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles. Bus companies owe heightened duties to safely operate their vehicles around pedestrians, and violations of these duties support strong negligence claims.
Common Pedestrian-Bus Accident Scenarios
Pedestrians are struck by buses in predictable situations:
At bus stops: Passengers hit while waiting for or approaching buses.
Crosswalks: Buses failing to yield to pedestrians with the right of way.
Right turns: Buses turning into crosswalks without checking for pedestrians.
Backing accidents: Buses reversing in terminals or parking areas.
Mirror strikes: Extended mirrors striking pedestrians on sidewalks or medians.
Pulling to curb: Buses striking pedestrians when approaching stops.
Severity of Bus-Pedestrian Injuries
The size disparity makes injuries catastrophic:
Fatal injuries: Many bus-pedestrian collisions result in death.
Traumatic brain injuries: Head impacts cause severe brain damage.
Crush injuries: Pedestrians may be run over or trapped under buses.
Spinal cord injuries: Impact forces cause paralysis.
Multiple fractures: Legs, pelvis, and other bones commonly broken.
Internal organ damage: Severe trauma to organs from blunt force.
Proving Driver Negligence
Bus drivers must exercise extraordinary care around pedestrians. Negligence may include:
Failure to yield: Not stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks.
Inadequate observation: Not checking mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes.
Excessive speed: Traveling too fast for conditions around pedestrian areas.
Distraction: Driver attention diverted from the road.
Failure to use safety equipment: Not using backup cameras, mirrors, or warning sounds.
Claims Against Transit Authorities
Public bus operators face liability but have special protections:
Notice requirements: Claims against government transit must be filed within strict deadlines—often 30-180 days.
Damage caps: Some states limit recovery against government entities.
Sovereign immunity: Certain immunities may apply, though most are waived for vehicle accidents.
Evidence in Pedestrian Cases
Important evidence includes:
Bus video systems: External cameras may show the pedestrian's location.
Witness statements: Other pedestrians and passengers who saw the accident.
Traffic camera footage: Nearby cameras may have captured the incident.
Accident reconstruction: Expert analysis of what happened.
Medical documentation: Comprehensive records of injuries.
Pursuing Your Claim
Pedestrians struck by buses should seek immediate medical care, report the accident to police, document the scene, and consult an attorney immediately—strict government notice deadlines may apply.