Many people in Fairfield, Connecticut, rely on public transportation to travel from one place to another. Since a bus usually has more passengers than any other vehicle, the chance of or injuries or casualties may be higher in a bus accident. Recently, a bus carrying students was involved in a three-vehicle accident on Kings Highway East.
Four special-needs students were travelling to a cultural arts school when the accident took place. Reports state that a car was attempting to turn left. The driver cut off the bus, which was unable to avoid hitting the car. The force of the collision also caused the car to cross into the westbound lane and hit a third vehicle.
According to police, the driver of the car could not see the bus while turning. Likewise, the bus driver also said that since the car pulled out directly in front of the bus, the collision could not be avoided. The driver of the car received an infraction for not allowing the right-of-way at a stop sign.
The drivers of both vehicles reported neck and back pain. They were transported to a hospital for treatment. Fortunately no major injuries were reported by the students, but they were sent to a hospital as a precaution.
Sometimes people injured in an accident may not be aware of the extent of their injuries. The person may believe that either there has been no injury or the injury is minimal and can be treated without medical assistance. But, it is always advisable to go to a doctor for a routine exam. Accidents may leave an individual with unidentified injuries, which may surface at a later stage.
A person injured in a public transportation accident has to deal with expenses for the injuries and may also have to take leave from work. The person may also need rehabilitation if the injuries are severe. The injured should know that the person responsible for the accident may be liable for paying a claim for the compensation of medical expenses and lost wages.
Source: Fairfield Patch, “Cops probe accident involving bus with special needs students” Caitlin Mazzola, Oct. 17, 2012.