Understanding the Potential for Deadly Bus Accidents in Chicago

 Posted on August 14, 2023 in Bus/Train Accidents

Buses play a crucial role in Chicago’s public transportation system. Making sure bus drivers are qualified enough to navigate Chicago’s busy streets is important to maintain safe traveling within the city. Today, we will look at the potential dangers unqualified bus drivers pose and how poorly trained drivers can easily cause deadly accidents. We will look at the importance of screening potential employees and properly training employees. If you have been injured in a Chicago bus accident, contact a personal injury lawyer to begin the process of pursuing compensation.

Lack of Proper Licensing and Training

When unqualified drivers are allowed to operate buses, the risk of deadly accidents goes up. Drivers may lack the necessary commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and special training to safely handle buses. A lack of knowledge and experience in managing these large and complex vehicles, navigating city streets, following traffic laws, and responding to emergency situations, can all put the safety of passengers and other road users at risk. 

Increased Potential for Mistakes

Unqualified bus drivers are more likely to make mistakes behind the wheel. This can include the following:

• Distracted driving

• Speeding 

• Running red lights

• Improper lane changes

• Risk-taking behavior

• Misunderstanding bus lanes and signals 

Legally negligent actions by unqualified bus drivers not only put passengers at risk but also threaten the safety and well-being of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers in Chicago’s busy streets.

Lack of Understanding Important Safety Protocols 

Proper training gives bus drivers important knowledge of safety protocols, emergency procedures, and how to use bus safety equipment. However, unqualified bus drivers may lack this knowledge, making it hard to respond in dangerous situations. These drivers may not know how to use safety features like emergency brakes and vehicle stability control, leading to dangerous accidents and fatalities. Without proper training and consistent evaluations by supervisors, public transit systems are at risk of operating in unsafe conditions. These conditions can lead to accidents.

Contact a Chicago, Illinois Bus Accident Lawyer

Ultimately, the presence of unqualified bus drivers on Chicago’s public transit routes poses a significant danger to passenger safety and can lead to devastating accidents. If you have been injured by a bus driver, contact a personal injury lawyer to determine whether the driver’s lack of qualification led to the accident and your injury. 

Remember, the statute of limitations in Illinois personal injury cases is only two years, so do not wait to call. Waiting too long to call a personal injury lawyer could result in your claim being denied. Contact the skilled Chicago, Illinois bus accident attorneys with Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC. Call 312-236-6324 for a free consultation. 

Source - https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K13-202