Q. What are the most common reasons for accidents involving buses?

A. Some of the most common causes for bus accidents are:

• Inadequate training of the driver
• Exceeding the capacity of the bus or carrying excess baggage
• Failing to maintain equipment—brakes, brake lights, signals, etc.
• Driving a bus when conditions are poor—foggy, icy, heavy rain, snowing
• Driving when fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or narcotics
• Speeding or reckless driving

Q. How common are pedestrian and bus accidents?

A. Each year about 20 school-aged pedestrians are involved in fatal accidents with school buses. Almost half of these accidents involve the child colliding with the front of the bus.

Q. Who is held at fault in a bus accident?

A. In most cases, the bus driver can be held at fault. Depending on circumstances the transportation company, the bus owner, local government, bus manufacturer and even manufacturers of components in the bus may be held liable for damages.

Read more about Bus Accident Injuries in Washington from Lynnwood personal injury lawyer Rob Kornfeld.