Due to their size and weight, commercial motor vehicles represent a significant threat to other vehicles on the road, including buses. On October 24, 2018, over 10 Bastrop ISD students were taken to the hospital after an 18-wheeler struck their bus at a Texas 71 intersection. According to FOX 7 news, the bus was turning on a green light and the truck’s limited stopping power prevented it from slowing to a stop. Sgt. Robbie Barrera from the Texas Department of Public Safety stated, “The bus driver advised he had a green light. He waited before he turned and he was turning right onto State Highway 71. [The truck driver] took evasive action, hit the shoulder, and could not stop, colliding with the school bus on the back left rear end of the school bus.” Fortunately, there were no fatalities and all injured parties are expected to recover.
Pursuing Compensation
Due to the circumstances of this accident, the bus driver and students may be able to file claims and pursue compensation. A successful case outcome can yield damages that cover a survivor’s medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, and lost wages.
Under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), the following parties can be held liable for an accident:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The leasing company
- The maintenance team
- The truck manufacturer
To secure these damages, the plaintiffs need to retain the services of an experienced truck accident attorney who has a thorough comprehension of state and federal trucking laws. Personal injury cases involving trucks can be complicated because multiple parties can be held liable for a collision. Plus, the investigation needs to review if the trucker was experiencing fatigue, driving a malfunctioning vehicle, or making careless choices just to meet an unreasonable schedule.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve been injured by a negligent truck driver, contact the South Texas truck accident lawyers at Zambrano Law Firm. During your consultation, we can discuss the circumstances of your case, explain your legal options, and develop a litigation strategy that maximizes your claim. While you recover, our resourceful and experienced legal team can research the collision and negotiate with insurance company representatives on your behalf.
Contact Zambrano Law Firm at (956) 627-0908 to schedule a consultation today.