Fatal Bus Accident on Interstate 15 Freeway Near Barstow

On Tuesday, December 13th, a large bus carrying several passengers was involved in a fatal accident near the city of Barstow in San Bernardino County. The bus that was involved in the accident was determined to be a 2016 Volvo bus that was owned by a company called Tufesa.  The bus was driving from Las Vegas, and headed towards California. The accident occurred around 11 p.m., near the Mojave Desert.

The bus physically rolled over on its own, there were no other vehicles involved, and the accident was determined to be a solo accident. Several different rescue crews arrived at the scene, and there was one passenger that was pronounced dead at the scene. Currently, the circumstances involving the accident are being investigated, but the tour bus had driven on the open terrain that was on the right side of the freeway prior to the accident. The bus drove on the dirt and became airborne.

There were also several other passengers who were injured. Immediately after the accident, there were around 11 passengers injured, but this number has since increased with several passengers now complaining of back injuries. There are around 7 passengers that are in critical condition. Currently, the California Highway Patrol near the Barstow area is investigating the circumstances of the accident. The person that was pronounced dead was determined to be Velia Monarrez, an 68 year old from Las Vegas. Our office extends our heartfelt condolences to the passenger and their family.

We know how difficult it may be for the passengers and their family members when one is involved in a bus accident. Bus accidents usually lead to more severe injuries compared to other car accidents. Reasons for this include:

• The bus is not equipped with proper seat belts
• Poor weather conditions
• The bus is heavy and likely to tip over
• It takes a specific license to drive a bus
• There are several different parts that need to be maintained for the bus to operate properly

Unfortunately, there are mass casualties that result from bus accidents. The bus in this scenario was carrying around 20 people, and multiple people were ejected from the interior. The entire road was closed off immediately after the accident, as First Responders arrived at the scene to help with all the passengers and other commuters.

After several studies done by AAA, driving at night has been determined to be a very dangerous factor that could result in a car accident. When drivers get behind the wheel at night, especially in unfamiliar territory, they are more likely to get involved in an accident. Driving during daylight hours makes the road safer simply because the driver could see all around.

Interstate 15 Accidents: Understanding the Risks and Your Legal Rights

Interstate 15 (I-15) is a crucial highway that connects Nevada and California, stretching over 1,400 miles. This major freeway serves as a lifeline for thousands of drivers commuting daily for work, leisure, and essential activities. Given its importance and the high volume of traffic it handles, comprehending the dynamics of accidents on I-15 is essential for both safety and legal preparedness.

The Importance of Interstate 15

I-15 is one of the busiest highways in the western United States, facilitating seamless travel between major cities like Las Vegas and Los Angeles. According to Fox 11, I-15 handles millions of vehicles each year, making it a critical corridor for commerce and personal travel. The highway’s extensive reach underscores the necessity for heightened awareness and precaution among its users.

Common Causes of Accidents on I-15

Accidents on I-15 can result from various factors, including:

• High Traffic Volume: The sheer number of vehicles increases the likelihood of collisions.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits is a prevalent issue that leads to severe accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices and other distractions divert attention from the road.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other weather-related factors can reduce visibility and road traction.
• Driver Fatigue: Long stretches of highway can lead to tiredness, impairing reaction times.

Understanding these common causes can help drivers take proactive measures to minimize risks.

Safety Tips for Navigating I-15

To enhance safety while traveling on I-15, consider the following tips:

1. Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as texting or eating while driving.
2. Adhere to Speed Limits: Respect posted speed limits to maintain control of your vehicle.
3. Use Rest Stops: Take regular breaks to prevent driver fatigue.
4. Maintain Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is in good condition, with functioning brakes and tires.
5. Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Adjust your driving based on current weather conditions.

Implementing these practices can significantly reduce the chances of being involved in an accident.

Understanding Your Legal Rights After an I-15 Accident

If you find yourself involved in an accident on I-15, it’s crucial to be aware of your legal rights. Here are some key points to consider:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a professional.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and gather information from all parties involved.
• Contact Authorities: Reporting the accident ensures there’s an official record.
• Consult a Legal Professional: An attorney can help you navigate insurance claims and potential legal actions.

For more detailed information on your legal rights, NBC Los Angeles offers comprehensive guides and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: What should I do immediately after an accident on I-15?

A: First, ensure everyone’s safety by moving to a safe location if possible. Call emergency services to report the accident, exchange information with other drivers, and document the scene with photos.

Q: How can I prevent accidents on I-15?

A: Practice safe driving habits such as obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions, maintaining a safe following distance, and staying alert, especially during long drives.

Q: When should I seek legal assistance after an I-15 accident?

A: It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional as soon as possible, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or disputes about fault.

Stay Informed with Reliable Sources

Staying informed about the latest traffic updates and accident statistics on I-15 can help you make safer travel decisions. Websites like ABC 7 and Fox 11 provide up-to-date information on road conditions, accident reports, and safety tips.

What is the most common cause of bus accidents?

According to the Journal of Safety Research, the number one cause of bus accidents is negligence from the driver’s end. This is not always the case, but it is likely to occur, especially when driving under the influence comes into play. Other reasons could include the driver being extremely fatigued, especially if they have driven for several hours during the day. Bus drivers are known to have very demanding and strenuous job hours, and currently, there is a push by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to ease on the hourly restrictions, and allow drivers to take more breaks in between shifts.

How do I file a bus accident claim?

You can file a bus accident claim without an attorney, but it is advised that you have a top-rated attorney on your side to make sure that your claim is followed through properly. Not having the right attorney could make you lose out on thousands of dollars in compensation that you deserve.

Bus accidents are very complex cases, especially in a scenario like this where the circumstances are still being investigated, especially because it was a solo bus accident. An attorney will be better able to investigate the circumstances for you to determine the cause of the accident, and then determine liability and which parties may be at fault.

Who is responsible for a bus accident?

The responsible parties depend on the circumstances of the accident, but generally the parties that could be held responsible include:

• Bus parts manufacturing company
• Bus retail company
• Touring company
• Owner of the bus
• Bus maintenance company
• Bus driver

What Types of Compensation Can You Receive from a Bus Accident?

Being involved in a bus accident can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. Understanding the types of compensation available to you is essential for your recovery and financial stability. The compensation you receive will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident and how it occurred.

1. Lost Wages

Lost wages compensation covers the income you’ve lost due to your inability to work following the accident. This includes:

• Missed Work Hours: Compensation for the hours you couldn’t work because of your injuries.
• Future Earnings: If your injuries result in permanent disabilities that prevent you from performing your job in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for lost future earnings.

2. Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering refers to the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by the accident. This type of compensation acknowledges:

• Physical Pain: Ongoing discomfort and pain from injuries sustained in the accident.
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts resulting from the accident.

3. Medical Bills

One of the most common types of compensation after a bus accident is for medical expenses. This includes:

• Immediate Medical Care: Costs for emergency services, hospital stays, and surgeries.
• Ongoing Treatments: Physical therapy, prescription medications, and follow-up visits to healthcare professionals.
• Future Medical Needs: Anticipated medical care required due to long-term effects of the injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I do immediately after a bus accident to ensure I receive compensation?

A: After a bus accident, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention immediately. Document all injuries and damages, gather contact information from witnesses, and consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and options for compensation.

Q: How long do I have to file a compensation claim after a bus accident?

A: The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim varies by state. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Additional Compensation Options

Depending on the severity and circumstances of the accident, you might also be eligible for:

• Property Damage: Compensation for damage to your personal belongings or vehicle.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact the accident has had on your relationship with your spouse or family members.

Call Heidari Law Today
There are around 60,000 bus accidents in the United States each year. In almost all these scenarios, there has been at least one person injured. Unfortunately, the majority of these bus accidents do result in permanent injuries that the passengers will have to live with forever. Although the number of fatalities has decreased due to increased safety precautions, the number of bus accidents is still at a steady incline. Many also estimate that these numbers rise closer to the holidays as more people start to go on vacations and use a bus as a means of transportation.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a bus accident, you do have the right to get compensated for your injuries. You have the right to hold the party responsible for the injuries that you have suffered. Our attorneys handle both California and Nevada law, and are experienced in representing accident victims for several decades. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. We hold those that are negligent responsible for your injuries.

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***Disclaimer: This webpage has been crafted by Heidari Law Group solely for educational purposes. The content of this article aims to offer a broad comprehension of the law and does not constitute specific legal advice. By accessing this site and perusing its contents, no attorney-client relationship is established between you and any member of Heidari Law. Additionally, it’s important to note that the legal landscape is subject to continuous change, rendering some of the information provided herein potentially outdated or no longer applicable.