Party bus accidents do happen, and when they do, people can get seriously injured.
Party buses are the epitome of fun. From bachelor or bachelorette parties to birthdays in style, these vehicles can sometimes fit even 30 of your friends for a night of celebration.
It only makes sense that when on a party bus, you may tend to be more concerned with having a good time than you are with your safety – after all, the driver is the one primarily responsible for that. Bus accidents do happen, and when they do, people can get seriously injured.
Why These Accidents Happen
There are several different reasons why a party bus ride may end up badly. The most common concern is traffic accidents, as most party bus rides take place at night. Even if the streets in Missouri are properly lit, night driving is still influenced by lower visibility, meaning the driver needs to be extra cautious.
The best case scenario here is a small fender-bender that puts the party to hold for a few hours. Bigger incidents can leave a lasting mark, which is why it’s important to ask the party bus company for details on their driver – their experience, health, and any prior issues while driving.
Traffic accidents can be just the tip of the iceberg. There are countless stories of people getting hurt, or even killed due to a party bus ride, and the reasons can vary greatly:
- Driver unlicensed to transport groups of people;
- Faulty doors ejecting passengers from the vehicle into traffic;
- Lack of safety precautions from the party bus company.
It’s common for party bus riders to consume alcohol while on these rides, which can affect their balance, ability to react, and even judgment. As a result, it is important that the party bus company and driver step in to ensure each ride is safe for all passengers.
When Someone Gets Hurt
You are not without legal options if you get hurt on a party bus or a loved one loses their life. If a fatality is involved, the surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death suit against the party bus company or driver.
If there are only injuries, you have the option of either handling the matters through an insurance company or filing a personal injury lawsuit. Most of these cases get resolved out of court, as the company and victims both want the process to be over as quick as possible. However, if there is evidence of gross neglect, your St. Louis car accident lawyer may advice filling a lawsuit in civil court and taking the matters in front of a judge and jury.
What Should You Do?
Reach out to a St. Louis car accident attorney as soon as possible if you get injured on a party bus. An experienced attorney at The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. can evaluate your claim free of charge and help you determine what you are legally entitled to. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 for a FREE consultation.