Southern California, especially Los Angeles, is home to one of the country’s busiest public transportation networks. There are subways, light-rails, buses and shuttles at just about every corner in the Greater Los Angeles area. In addition, the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board is making it easier than ever to travel around Los Angeles without a car, and the number of people using the bus system is on the rise.
Bus companies, drivers, mechanics and employees must comply with safety requirements. Bus drivers must be trained and certified. Below are some of the most common issues involving bus driver safety:
- Driver must pass through a comprehensive background check
- Driver must be properly trained and certified
- Driver must have a valid and current drivers license
- Driver must have knowledge of and comply with all applicable driver rules
- Driver must not work for more than a certain number of hours per day
- Driver must have knowledge and mastery of the brake operating systems
- Bus must have an operating emergency window release with pull or lift handle
- Bus must have an operating emergency door exit with or without power fail
Proving The Bus Company Negligent
Bus companies have a responsibility for the actions of their employees, mechanics, and drivers. They have have a responsibility to maintain their vehicles properly and ensure they are fit for use. If an injury occurs because of a bus companies negligence or because of faulty equipment, the injured party may be able to recover monetary damages to compensate for their losses.
Some of the most common buses in Southern California include:
- School bus
- Metro bus
- DASH
- FLYAWAY
- Tour Bus