When you take public transportation, you expect your driver to be adequately trained and to reach your destination safely. However, there are rare instances where a bus driver will operate their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. When you have been injured in a drunk driving bus accident in Houston, either as a passenger or another motorist, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries.
A seasoned bus crash attorney could ensure your legal rights are protected throughout the legal process. The Law Firm of Kinard, Garcia & Saldana has extensive experience representing people in situations like yours, and our dedicated legal team is available to discuss the facts of your case today.
Operating a Bus While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Bus drivers typically must have a Commercial Driver’s License to operate a bus. This license requires them to follow stricter rules and regulations when operating a bus on the roadways. It also notes that the driver has been trained and understands the rules of the road.
Whether the bus driver is taking passengers around a city or traveling the countryside, they owe a duty to their passengers to operate the bus safely. Passengers are entrusting the bus driver to be safe in the operation of the bus, but when this does not occur, the bus driver should be responsible for any injuries they may cause because of their negligence.
Driving drunk is dangerous no matter what type of vehicle the driver is operating. However, operating a bus while intoxicated puts not only the driver at risk but all of the passengers and other motorists on the road. A Houston attorney could help explore the options for those who are injured in a drunk-driving bus accident.
Holding the Drunk Bus Driver Responsible
A drunk bus driver will likely be criminally charged and be required to pay fines and potentially serve time in jail if found guilty. However, they should also be held responsible for the injuries sustained by those affected by the accident. To hold them accountable, the injured party may file a civil claim requesting to be compensated for the injuries sustained as a result of the drunk driver’s negligence.
Damages for injuries that were a result of a drunk bus driver accident can include compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation services
- Lost wages or earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of consortium
There are several potential damages that an injured party can request to be compensated for. Because of this, it is imperative to speak with a highly skilled Houston lawyer after a drunk-driving bus crash occurs.
Get in Touch With a Houston Drunk Driving Bus Accident Attorney Today
Drunk driving wrecks can be physically and emotionally challenging. When you have been in a crash where a bus driver was intoxicated, you should seek legal assistance to ensure your rights are protected.
Working with an experienced drunk driving bus accident lawyer in Houston is vital. Contact the seasoned legal team at Kinard, Garcia & Saldana today to discuss the facts of your case.
Our hardworking and well-versed personal injury attorneys could review your incident and help you negotiate a fair settlement or be by your side at trial. Call today to schedule an initial consultation.