When travelling on a bus safety is essential. Public transport is becoming increasingly popular due to the rising fuel prices making running a car more expensive. Many buses are now subsidised which makes travelling that little bit cheaper. However, recently there have been cases of driver negligence resulting in passenger injuries.

• 63-year old Mr Graham was seriously injured after he was thrown from a bus. He described how the bus driver pulled away too quickly as he was getting off. He fell to the pavement, breaking his pelvis. Mr Graham is now unable to walk and is housebound until the bones in his pelvis heal themselves.

• In another case a mother and child were left shaken after they narrowly escaped injury. They were trapped by the doors as they tried to get off the bus. The mother of 3-month old baby Cameron had to use all her strength to “wriggle free”. Luckily both of them did not sustain any physical injuries.

• It is not only getting off the bus that can cause injury. In March this year a passenger sustained serious head injuries whilst trying to board an Arriva owned bus. The bus stop was close to a set of traffic lights. As the passenger began to board the bus, the traffic lights turned to green. The driver closed the doors around the passenger and set off. This caused the man to loose his balance and fall into the road.

Rule 33 of the Drivers Rule Book states that drivers should be “vigilant at bus stops and authorised stopping places to ensure that passengers board and alight safely”. Also stated in the book is that “in no circumstances should a bus with passenger doors be moved into service with any door open”. In the case studies described above it is clear that the law had been broken on several occasions. The bus drivers had not carried out their duty of care to the passengers on board.

What to do if you have had an accident on a bus

With any injury it is advisable that you visit a medical expert. If your injuries are severe an ambulance should be called immediately, for minor injuries you should consult your GP. The accident should be reported to the bus company as soon as possible. If there are any witnesses to the accident their names, addresses and telephone numbers should be recorded. Witnesses may be able to provide us with some extra information which could help us with your case.

If you have suffered an injury as a result of drivers’ negligence you may be entitled to compensation. At Macks Solicitors we work on a No Win No Fee basis and will provide you with a friendly and efficient service. Contact us on 0800 652 4321 or visit our Compensation Claims Website

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