A transit accident is one involving public transportation, such as a Visalia Transit bus or even the Sequoia Shuttle. Visalia offers many forms of transportation to both residents and visitors, but a transit accident can be a possibility and have many different causes. Let’s look at the possible causes of a transit accident in Visalia.
Not Obeying Visalia Traffic Laws
Traffic laws are in place to ensure any driver maintains proper speed, stops to allow other drivers to pass, and generally drives safely. It isn’t only the drivers of passenger cars on the road that need to obey these traffic laws. Bus drivers are responsible for following the rules of the road and can sometimes be just as lax in following them as other drivers.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is dangerous, and while more and more drivers carry cell phones with them, the number of accidents involving distractions is increasing. However, transit drivers not only have to resist the temptation to look at their cell phone while driving, but they also have the distraction of the many passengers that are riding on their vehicle. Even a dropped bottle of water can roll to the front of the bus and cause a distraction.
Transit Accident Caused by Driver Fatigue
A transit accident in Visalia can be caused by driver fatigue just as it can be anywhere and with any driver. Just as you should not drive while exhausted, bus drivers shouldn’t either. However, with long shifts that can sometimes be very repetitive when following the Visalia bus route and schedule, a transit accident may occur. After a transit accident, a driver may be asked to take the same roadside test they would require of an impaired driver. This is because exhaustion can mimic the signs of impairment caused by alcohol or substance abuse.
Impaired Driver
A transit driver can be impaired in many ways. We discussed exhaustion above. However, both alcohol and substance abuse can cause impairment that can lead to a transit accident. Driving while intoxicated may be more common than you think, and substance abuse doesn’t have to be from an illegal drug. Even legally prescribed medications can lead to impaired driving, and if the driver isn’t feeling alert and awake enough to drive, then they shouldn’t.
Lack of Vehicle Maintenance
As with any other vehicle on the road, Visalia transit vehicles should be maintained properly and on schedule. With a lack of maintenance, damage to the vehicle may not be noticed and repaired, which can lead to an accident. Lack of maintenance can also cause transit vehicles to break down, which can also put the riders and drivers of these buses in danger. Not only is a lack of maintenance a problem, but so is maintenance that isn’t done properly. Not torquing bolts down correctly or not replacing an engine belt the way it should be done can cause a transit accident.
Have you been involved in a transit accident in Visalia? With an office conveniently located in Visalia, the Maison Law Firm is ready to represent you in your personal injury claim. Call the office at (559) 203-3333 to schedule your free consultation with Martin Gasparian.
