A collision between a New Jersey Transit bus and a van early Tuesday morning sent four people to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. According to reports, the crash happened at the intersection of Summit Avenue and Broad Street while the bus was en route to Short Hills Mall. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the collision.
Whenever I see reports of a crash involving a commercial vehicle, I immediately think about whether the vehicle was being operated safely and whether all safety equipment was functioning properly.
Was the Bus Following Safe Driving Practices?
Collisions between buses and other vehicles often raise questions about driver actions leading up to the crash. Investigators should determine whether the bus driver was distracted, fatigued, or failed to yield the right of way. Reviewing surveillance footage from the bus, if available, could provide insight into how the crash unfolded.
Was the Bus in Proper Working Condition?
A key part of this investigation should focus on whether mechanical issues contributed to the crash. Buses require routine maintenance to ensure that brakes, steering systems, and other critical components function properly. Investigators should review the maintenance logs for the NJ Transit bus and determine whether any pre-existing mechanical issues may have affected its ability to stop or maneuver safely.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Important
For those injured in this crash, getting a full understanding of what happened is crucial. Determining whether driver error, distraction, or mechanical failures played a role could help ensure accountability. In my experience, these types of collisions often involve factors that aren’t immediately clear, making it all the more important to examine every possible contributing factor.