As summer settles into full swing, more opportunities for local and long distance travel present themselves. While planes are convenient and using your own car is economical, research has found that buses are amongst the safest ways to travel. If you’re planning a trip and thinking about getting to your final destination via bus, here are some safety tips you’ll want to keep in mind.
FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH SAFETY EQUIPMENT
When you board the bus, take a moment to locate the emergency exits. Emergency exits are often doors, windows, and roof top hatches. Also, identify the location of the fire extinguisher, which is usually near the front of the buss. Check behind the driver’s seat, underneath the passenger seat on the right hand side of the bus in the front, and in the overhead bin, if there is one. If you cannot locate the fire extinguisher, ask the driver where it is kept.
WHILE ON BOARD
Certain safety precautions should be taken while on board to ensure your safety, as well as the safety of those around you:
- Use the hand rails
- Watch your step while boarding – some buses have an extra step in the aisle
- Keep your passenger seat belt fastened if one is available
- Stay in your seat when the bus is in motion
- Keep feet and hands out of the aisle
- Tuck personal belongings under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin – do not allow your possessions to block the aisles
- If you must move about while the bus is in motion, use the seat backs, or alternatively, the overhead supports, to maintain your balance
RECOGNIZE ON BOARD EMERGENCIES
If you feel you are in immediate danger, call 911. Examples of emergencies that merit a call to 911 include:
- The appearance of a safety problem that is urgent, such as heavy smoke emanating from the bus, or a bus that is skidding excessively
- Erratic driving, such as speeding, aggressive driving, driving in extreme or dangerous weather conditions, texting, or talking on the phone
- When a driver appears incapacitated, including when severely fatigued, visibly sleepy, nodding off, is disoriented, has slurred speech, and can’t or won’t pull over
HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED IN A BUS ACCIDENT?
If you have been injured in a bus accident, contact the attorneys at Miller Kory Rowe LLP since you may be entitled to lost wages, past and future medical bills, and pain and suffering. Our public transportation accident attorneys understand how the court system works, from filing a complaint and handling the discovery process to negotiating a settlement.
Our attorneys are committed to representing clients injured through no fault of their own. Contact our office today at (602) 648-4045 for a free consultation.
