Woman Ran Over By Bus Files Lawsuit Against VIA
Oralia Chavira, 65, was struck by a bus last November, severely injuring her legs, according to an article in the San Antonio News Express. Chavira has sued VIA Metropolitan Transit claiming that the driver of the bus, Richard Cardenas, caused the crash. Driver inattention and failure to yield right of way to a pedestrian were factors in the accident, according to a police report.
Chavira was on her way to home from work. A bus was “in a driveway that opens to a pedestrian pick-up area.” Chavira was stepping into the crosswalk and looked down to avoid falling as she stepped off the curb. When she looked up again, the bus was very close to her. Chavira waved to the bus driver but the driver could not see her and ran over her.
The seriously injured Chavira was taken to a hospital where she had to spend 83 days and underwent 11 surgeries. Both of her legs were broken and she permanently lost part of her right heel. Furthermore, she has to undergo further surgeries and has to use a wheelchair to get around. Chavira has spoken to the driver only once, before she was taken to the hospital. He was sorry and said “I really didn’t see you.”
VIA’s response to the lawsuit was that the agency “is awaiting documentation from the claimant’s counsel to access the matter. The bus operator involved was disciplined in accordance with VIA policy and procedures.” Cardenas is still driving for VIA, and no charges have been filed against him.
If you or a family member has been injured in a traffic accident due to negligence of others, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The help of a skilled lawyer can significantly improve your chances of winning. Contact a capable personal injury attorney in Texas today.
