13 Killed, 31 Injured in Palm Springs Tour Bus Crash

Thirteen people were killed and 31 others injured in a tour bus accident near Palm Springs early morning on October 23, 2016. According to a news report in The Desert Sun, the names of the victims have not yet been released, but officials said among the dead were 10 women and three men. The fatal crash occurred on the westbound side of the 10 Freeway at Indian Canyon Drive. California Highway Patrol officials said the bus carrying 43 passengers was on its way back from Red Earth Casino in Salton Sea Beach when it rear-ended a big rig. The bus driver was among those killed.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the deceased victims. Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the many people who were injured in this horrific bus crash. Please keep everyone who was affected in your thoughts and prayers.

Injuries and Ongoing Investigation

The survivors suffered injuries ranging from minor to critical, officials said. The big rig’s driver was also injured. Officials are still looking into why the bus was traveling at a much faster speed than the truck. It is also unclear whether drugs or alcohol was involved or if fatigue was a factor, officials said. Officials said a maintenance crew had slowed down traffic on the Interstate 10 before the vehicles crashed.

Those who suffered injuries were taken to three different hospitals in the Coachella Valley. A handful remained in critical or serious condition. Most of the injured who suffered minor to moderate injuries had been treated and released from the hospitals. Trauma surgeons told the Desert Sun that many patients came in with facial trauma needing eye surgery, injuries indicative or patients not wearing seatbelts. It is not clear if the tour bus that crashed had seatbelts. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.

Protecting Your Rights

It is important that those who suffered injuries in this crash get prompt medical attention, treatment and care for their injuries and follow up with their doctors with regard to ongoing treatment including rehabilitative care. It is important for victims including families of the deceased to obtain copies of critical accident reports from investigating law enforcement agencies.

Obtain contact information for anyone who may have witnessed the incident. Preserve all physical evidence from the scene including torn or bloody clothing. Save all hospital bills and invoices relating to the incident and your injuries and treatment. Contact an experienced bus accident lawyer who will be able to stay on top of the official investigation and help ensure that you receive maximum compensation for all your losses.