Much too often recently residents of Connecticut have had to read about tragic bus accidents. The state of Connecticut alone experienced a number of bus collisions in 2012. As many Connecticut residents are aware, another tragic bus accident occurred very recently. Unfortunately another individual has just died as a result of the crash.
The driver of the pickup truck who was hit head on by a bus died from crash related injuries on Wednesday, February 6th. This brings the total number dead from this crash to eight. The incident, which occurred in California, is still being investigated by authorities. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time.
The driver of the bus indicates the brakes failed to work properly. Investigators analyzing the details of the crash found that this particular bus has a history of brake problems. Other potential reasons for the crash include driver fatigue and road conditions.
The bus was carrying 38 people at the time of the incident. The bus hit the truck driver and then flipped, spilling wreckage and people around the scene. The victims of this incident may bring a civil suit against the driver of the bus or the bus company if evidence indicates either’s negligence lead to the crash.
Even if the brakes are not found to have been faulty, if the driver was negligent, the company may still be held responsible for the incident. Under the concept of respondeat superior, an employer is liable for the negligent conduct of its employees if such activity is done within the scope of employment. Substantial investigation and evidence is required in order to be successful in such a suit.
Source: Connecticut Post, “California tour bus collision death toll rises to eight,” Feb. 6, 2013.
