The majority of bus accidents in Tucson, AZ, happen because people are not paying attention to the road. Drivers and passengers alike often ignore safety protocols, which often leads to multi-car pile ups with many casualties. Bus drivers need to be vigilant about what’s happening on the road, but it is up to drivers of other cars to also do their part. On a related note, drunk driving is one of the leading causes of general bus accidents for reasons that are pretty obvious.
Bus accidents can happen in Tucson for a variety of reasons. They can be the result of driver negligence, such as speeding or reckless driving. It can also be because of factors such as poorly maintained roads and weather conditions such as icy roads or extreme heat. Factors like the number of vehicles on the road and time of day may also play a part. If you have been involved in a bus accident, it is essential to consult with a Tucson auto accident attorney to discuss the scope for compensation.
We will now see leading causes for bus accidents in Tucson.
- Distracted driving
In Tucson, Arizona, there is now a trend in bus accidents due to driver distraction. Bus driver distraction is defined as any unauthorized and unnecessary use of a mobile device while driving, which can include texting and driving. This trend is creating an increase in bus accidents that are caused by driver distraction. These accidents create a risk for injury or death to both the driver and those around them.
- Drowsy driving
As reported by the Arizona Department of Transportation, the number of bus accidents in Tucson caused by drowsy drivers has increased by 34% since last year. Many factors contribute to this rise, including increasing the population and long-term health effects. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there are about 1.4 million crashes involving sleep-deprived drivers every year.
- Driving under influence
Over the past three years, there have been an estimated 77 accidents in Tucson, with at least one of the drivers being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The number is only expected to increase as the population in Tucson continues to grow. Through research, it has been found that drunk drivers cause about 33% of all fatalities in motor vehicle accidents. Alcohol-related crashes are four times more likely to be fatal than crashes that are not related to alcohol consumption.
- Speeding
Every day in Tucson, Arizona, buses and other large vehicles share the road with cars. While most bus drivers are very careful with their speed and position, many forget that they too can be injured or killed by speeding traffic. The risks of a bus accident increase dramatically when the driver is speeding around corners or running red lights.
