Bus accident claims the lives of 2 women

Massachusetts residents who frequently travel by bus or coach may be concerned about the level of protection that these vehicles offer in the event of an accident. These shortcomings were demonstrated on Sept. 21 when a bus packed with tourists overturned in Delaware. Two women lost their lives in the bus accident, and 47 others suffered injuries requiring hospital treatment.

The driver of the bus lost control of the vehicle as it rounded a curve on State Route 1 south of Wilmington around 4:20 p.m. The bus had been transporting a group of sightseers back to New York City after a visit to the nation’s capital. The bus overturned and slid down a grass embankment on its roof before coming to a rest on its driver’s side.

Emergency response personnel quickly arrived at the scene, and they used a ladder to gain access to the disabled bus in order to reach the injured passengers. A 54-year-old New York City woman was pronounced dead at the scene, and a 47-year-old resident of Istanbul succumbed to her injuries after being transported to an area hospital. There were no immediate reports regarding the nature of the injuries suffered by the other passengers.

Buses are rarely equipped with safety belts for passengers to use, and even minor collisions can result in serious injuries. Bus passengers often suffer neck, back and soft tissue injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and prolonged physical therapy. They could also face financial difficulties if their injuries prevent them from working for any length of time. A personal injury attorney could bring a lawsuit on a bus accident victim’s behalf when their injuries are due to the negligent actions of others. This kind of legal action could seek compensation for their medical expenses as well as their lost income.

Source: FOX News, “Two dead, 47 hospitalized after bus overturns in Delaware“, September 22, 2014