How Many People Are Hurt In Bus Accidents Yearly?
Giancarlo Perlas June 6, 2023
Public transportation plays a crucial role in our daily lives, with buses being one of the most commonly used modes of transport worldwide. While buses, especially Mercedes-Benz Tourriders, are generally considered safe and efficient, accidents can and do occur, leading to injuries and sometimes tragic consequences. When individuals sustain injuries in bus accidents, seeking legal representation from a bus accident lawyer can be beneficial. Bus accident lawyers specialize in handling cases related to these and have expertise in navigating the legal complexities associated with such incidents. Understanding the magnitude of injuries resulting from such events is important for assessing the risks associated with public transportation. In this article, we delve into the statistics to shed light on how many people are hurt in bus accidents each year.
Scope of Bus Accidents and Statistical Overview
Bus accidents encompass a wide range of incidents, including collisions with other vehicles, rollovers, crashes due to driver error, mechanical failures, and even pedestrian accidents involving buses. They can occur in urban, suburban, and rural areas, affecting passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and occupants of other vehicles. Accurate and up-to-date statistics on this matter and associated injuries are essential for assessing the magnitude of the problem and determining appropriate countermeasures. While data may vary across different countries, we can provide a general understanding based on available information.
Global Perspective
Gathering precise global data on bus accidents can be challenging due to variations in reporting systems and the lack of centralized databases. However, according to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic injuries account for approximately 1.35 million deaths and 20-50 million non-fatal injuries worldwide each year. It is important to note that these figures encompass all road traffic accidents and not just those involving buses.
Regional Disparities
The occurrence and severity of bus accidents can vary significantly across regions. Developing countries often face higher risks due to factors like inadequate infrastructure, driver training, and vehicle maintenance. Conversely, developed nations tend to have more stringent safety regulations, which may contribute to lower accident rates.
National Statistics
Examining national-level data from selected countries can provide insights into the prevalence of bus accidents:
a. United States
In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for regulating and monitoring commercial buses. According to the FMCSA’s most recent report, there were 32,000 injury crashes involving buses in 2019. These crashes resulted in approximately 15,000 injuries, with 51 of them being fatal. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 60,000 buses are involved in accidents annually in the United States. Although the number of injuries varies from year to year, reports indicate that tens of thousands of people sustain injuries in these accidents. A bus accident lawyer from the US says: “Accurate and up-to-date statistics on bus accidents and related injuries are crucial for understanding the magnitude of the problem and determining appropriate actions to make it as harmless as possible”.
b. United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the Department for Transport (DfT) collects data on road accidents, including bus accidents, through its annual reports and statistics. The most recent available data provides insights into the number of people injured in bus accidents in the United Kingdom.
According to the DfT’s reported statistics for 2019, there were a total of 3,809 reported bus accident casualties, which includes both slight and serious injuries. It is important to note that this figure includes all casualties involved in bus accidents, including passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and occupants of other vehicles. To further break down the data, the DfT’s report indicates that out of the total of 3,809 bus accident casualties in 2019, 293 were classified as serious injuries. Serious injuries typically refer to those that require hospitalization or have a severe impact on the individual’s health and well-being.
In the UK, statistics from the Department for Transport reveal that there were over 5,000 reported bus accidents in 2019. These accidents resulted in around 6,000 casualties, including both minor and severe injuries.
c. Europe
In Europe, the European Commission collects data on road accidents through the CARE database. According to the most recent available data, in 2019, approximately 9,000 people were injured in bus accidents across the European Union member states. This figure includes injuries sustained by bus occupants, pedestrians, and occupants of other vehicles involved in the accidents.
People Hurt in Bus Accidents in Developing Countries
In many developing countries, buses serve as the primary mode of transportation for millions of people, and accidents involving buses are not uncommon. These accidents can result in a high number of injuries and fatalities. While specific figures may not be readily available, news reports and studies offer insights into the gravity of the situation.
For example, according to a report by the World Bank, approximately 90% of the world’s road traffic deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, many of which are developing nations. Buses are often involved in a significant proportion of these accidents, resulting in numerous injuries. The report highlights the need for improved road safety measures in these countries to reduce the impact of bus accidents and enhance public safety.
Furthermore, studies focusing on specific developing countries provide valuable insights into the number of injuries caused by bus accidents. For instance, a study conducted in India, one of the world’s most populous countries, estimated that more than 100,000 people are injured annually in bus accidents. This figure emphasizes the magnitude of injuries resulting from such incidents in a single country.
Factors Influencing Bus Accidents
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of bus accidents and the resulting injuries:
- Human Factors: Human error, including driver fatigue, distraction, impairment, and inadequate training, is a leading cause of bus accidents.
- Infrastructure and Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, lack of proper signage, and inadequate infrastructure increase the risk of accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Defective brakes, worn-out tires, and faulty mechanical systems can lead to accidents and worsen their outcomes.
- Weather Conditions: Inclement weather such as heavy rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility and make road surfaces slippery, posing additional risks.
Bus accidents have the potential to cause severe injuries and loss of life, making it crucial to focus on preventive measures and safety regulations. While global statistics specifically for bus accidents are not readily available, estimates suggest a significant number of injuries occur as a result of these incidents. Regional and national data provide insights into the scale of the problem and highlight the need for continued efforts to enhance safety standards, improve driver training, enforce regulations, and maintain road infrastructure. By addressing the factors contributing to bus accidents, we can strive towards a safer and more reliable public transportation system for everyone.
