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Recent Tour Bus Accidents Lead to Questions of Injured Passenger Rights

On Behalf of | Mar 15, 2011 | Car Accidents

On Monday evening, a tour bus crashed on the New Jersey Turnpike. This one-vehicle accident left two dead, the bus driver and a passenger, and several other passengers suffered serious injuries. Initial reports indicate that the bus entered the median and hit a concrete support beam; however, police do not know the cause of the crash and will continue their investigation. This most recent accident involving a tour bus occurred only a few days after the New York City bus crash, where 15 passengers died.

In light of these recent tragic accidents involving tour buses, questions arise regarding what type of options the passengers may have for recovery from their injuries. Particularly in situations like the tour bus accident in New Jersey where only one vehicle was involved.

Injured Passengers Have Legal Rights

As a passenger injured in a car accident, or as a loved one whose family member has been injured in an accident, you have legal options and may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The responsible party (or parties) and type or amount of damages will depend on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Examples of some types of compensation may include recovery for:

  • Lost wages
  • Loss of future earning
  • Medical treatment costs
  • Future medical care
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of quality of life
  • Pain and suffering

The injured party may also be entitled to additional compensation if the driver of the vehicle was driving recklessly, which caused the accident. In New Jersey, a driver may be considered reckless if he or she is driving with “willful or wanton disregard” for the safety of others on the road. Some examples of reckless driving may include drunk driving, speeding, tailgating other vehicles, failing to signal, passing on the shoulder or in a no-passing zone or excessive lane changes.

It is important to speak to a personal injury attorney experienced in passenger injury cases if you have been injured in any type of accident, be it involving a single car or a tour bus like the recent accidents in New York and New Jersey. An attorney can investigate the circumstances of your case, assess your injuries and help you determine the best course of action for you and your family.

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