California Bus Accident Kills One, Injures 30

A 33-year-old passenger was killed and at least 30 others were injured in a tour bus accident in California early morning on November 23, 2014. According to a news report in The Sacramento Bee, the fatal crash occurred when a tour bus bound from Los Angeles to Washington State drifted off the Interstate 5 and crashed onto its roof north of Shasta Lake near Pollard Flat. One male passenger, 33, was killed. Three others have been listed in critical condition. The condition of others who were injured is not known.

Fatigue a Possible Factor

California Highway Patrol officials said the 1996 Belgium-designed Van Hool bus was driven by 67-year-old Jose Victor Garcilazo, 67, of Los Angeles. The bus was owned and operated by Yellow Arrow Lines. Officials said the bus drifted off the right shoulder, went down an embankment and overturned before coming to rest on its roof. CHP is looking into why the bus went off the roadway. Officials say the same bus crashed into a Denny’s restaurant in Red Bluff earlier that morning. CHP is looking into driver fatigue being a cause for the second, far more serious crash.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members and friends of the deceased crash victim. We also wish the injured bus crash victims the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Ongoing Investigation

Based on this news report, it appears that officials are looking into the possibility of this crash being caused by driver fatigue. Also, this was a bus that had already crashed earlier that morning. We trust officials are taking a good look the driver’s logs, which he was required to keep under federal law. Bus drivers are required to take sufficient breaks and rest before getting back on the road. Bus companies are also required to keep updated and accurate driver logs and vehicle maintenance log. We trust officials in this case are looking into all factors including fatigue, impairment and poor vehicle maintenance.

Compensation for Victims and Families

Bus companies have the utmost duty of care to their passengers. This means that bus companies have a duty to ensure the safety of their passengers. Injured bus crash victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Injured victims and families of deceased victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.