Common carriers such as ships, buses, and airlines have laws and regulations that they are expected to follow. Below are some of the laws and how their breakage can lead to liability claims.

Safe Entry Ways and Exits

Many people get injured while boarding or exiting buses, trains, or planes. Uneven steps, damaged doors, slippery surfaces, and missing handrails are some of the common causes of these types of accidents. For example, some buses have retractable footsteps that might not extend fully in case of a malfunction. You can easily miss your step and fall while using such a step.  In such a case, you can hold the bus company liable for your injuries if you can prove that the defective step was the cause of your fall.

Qualified Operators

Each common carrier has the legal duty to employ qualified and safe operators for its vessels. A bus driver, airplane pilot, or ship captain must have the necessary license and safe history. For example, a bus driver with multiple DUI (driving under the influence) convictions in their history is not the right person to higher as a driver. A bus company that employs such a driver, who then ends up causing an accident while intoxicated, may be liable for the ensuing damages.

Well-Maintained Vehicles

Common carriers also have the responsibility of keeping their carriers properly maintained and safe. This includes regular servicing as necessary and prompt repairs of damaged parts. This makes sense since automobile defects can also lead to accidents. For example, an accident caused by a defective brake system is easy to trace back to the bus company since it's their duty to ensure their cars are safe.

Providing Security

In some cases, it is also necessary for a common carrier to provide security for its clients. For example, airlines and ship operators provide security for their clients. This protects the clients from other clients or third-parties who might cause the clients harm. For example, the risk of muggings, kidnappings, and even sexual assault rise whenever large groups of people are together. If a common carrier fails to provide relevant security and a criminal causes you injury, you may be able to hold the common carrier liable for your damages. 

Warning Passengers

Lastly, common carriers also have the duty of warning their passengers about dangerous conditions. For example, passengers should be warned when it is dangerous to alight and when they must fasten their seatbelts. The relevant common carrier becomes liable if injuries occur due to inadequate warnings.

Consult an attorney if you have been injured by a common carrier. Don't forget that the common carriers have the financial muscle to hire the best defense teams, so it's not wise to go against them without a lawyer.

To learn more about personal injury law, contact a personal injury lawyer in your area like Jack W Hanemann, P.S.