A bus accident involving a Greyhound bus and two other vehicles has left six people dead and 34 injured, CNN reports. This catastrophic crash occurred early morning on July 22, 2010 in the northbound lanes of Highway 99. The driver of the bus, which was going from Los Angeles to Sacramento, struck an overturned SUV and another vehicle and eventually crashed into a tree off the roadway. Six died at the scene. Four were critically injured, while 30 sustained minor to moderate injuries. An investigation is underway.

I offer my heartfelt sympathies to the families of those who died in this crash. I also pray for the critically injured victims and the others, and hope they recover quickly and completely. The bus driver, a longtime Greyhound employee, was also one of those who died in the crash. Tragic!

Accident Statistics

Statistics provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) show that there were 39 fatalities and 1,395 injuries involving bus accidents in California, in 2008. In Fresno County as a whole, 127 people died and 3,233 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Accident Causes and Liability Issues

Based on news reports, it is not clear exactly how or why this crash happened. There are several questions here. Did alcohol or drugs play a part? Whose fault was this crash? Was the bus driver distracted or fatigued at the time of the collision? Did speed or recklessness play a part in this crash? The results of the official investigation will hopefully shed some light on what occurred here and why.

It would be in the best interests of victims or families of deceased victims to consult a reputed California personal injury lawyer who will analyze all aspects of this major collision and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. Bus companies - whether they are public or private carriers – owe their passengers the "utmost duty of care," which means that they must ensure that their passengers are transported safely. If the bus driver was at fault, then, the bus company could be held liable for the wrongful deaths, injuries, damages and losses. If the driver of the other vehicle is determined to be at fault, then, he or she could be held liable for the wrongful deaths and the victims' injuries.

Do you feel safe riding in a bus? What are some of your major concerns about taking a bus – be it public transit or a private carrier?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.