During this time of year, many companies and organizations host holiday and end-of-the-year parties. In an attempt to avoid to avoid drunken or fatigued driving, many companies enlist the assistance of private buses to transport employees. However, even though hiring a private bus or charter company is generally a good idea because it is economical and efficient, accidents can still occur.
When a New Mexico bus accident occurs, it may be confusing to determine who are the responsible parties and how fault should be apportioned. In these situations, there are often several entities that can be held liable for the accident, including the bus company, the bus driver, the touring company, and potentially even an employer that arranges the transportation.
When a company hires a company to transport employees to various locations, the company has a duty to ensure that the driver is trained and experienced in transporting large numbers of people on a bus. If the company did not perform due diligence in the selection of a transport company, the company may be held liable.
The touring company may try to pass off liability onto the bus company. Generally, a bus company owns the buses and employs the drivers. The bus company has the primary duty of ensuring that the driver is skilled and that their fleet of buses is in proper working order. However, even if the company ensures that their drivers are competent and the buses are working, if the driver acts negligently, the company may still be held liable.
Bus Crashes While Transporting Passengers to Company Holiday Party
According to a local news report from earlier this month, a bus crashed while transporting passengers who were traveling to a company holiday party. Apparently, the company hired a private charter bus to provide their employees with an easy and safe way to get to the party.
According to police reports, the bus fishtailed on the highway and then flipped over. About 29 people were transported to a local hospital, four suffering serious injuries, nine moderate injuries, and 16 minor injuries. A few of the injured individuals are still in the hospital. It took several hours to clear the highway. Police officials do not know the exact cause of the accident and are investigating the driver and bus. Currently, it is believed that alcohol did not play a role in the accident.
Have You Been Injured in a Bus Accident in New Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Mexico bus or truck accident, you should contact one of the dedicated New Mexico personal injury attorneys at the Fine Law Firm. Bus accidents can be very complex, due to the multiple parties involved. Defendants in these cases will try everything in their power to thwart liability, which can end up causing massive delays for you. The attorneys at the Fine Law Firm can help you bring an appropriate lawsuit against all liable parties. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you sustained. Contact one of the attorneys at the Fine Law Firm today at 800-640-6590 to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Commercial Driver’s License Requirements and Mandatory Safety Regulations for New Mexico Truck Drivers, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, November 29, 2017.
Appellate Court Strikes Plaintiff’s Expert Reports, Granting Summary Judgment in Favor of Defendants, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 6, 2017.