Authorities in Toronto have reported that 11 people were injured on March 20 when a MiWay bus struck an SUV head-on in Toronto. The accident took place at approximately 9 a.m. in the city’s west end. The injuries suffered by two people on the bus were considered serious, but both passengers are expected to recover. Officers with the Toronto police traffic services unit were called in to investigate the accident.
According to Toronto police, the two vehicles collided on Islington Avenue near Bloor Street West. First responders arriving at the scene of the bus accident in the Etobicoke area placed three injured passengers on backboards due to concerns that they may have suffered spinal cord injuries. The most seriously injured passenger was taken by ambulance to an area trauma centre for treatment. Paramedics took 11 people to hospital. The 81-year-old man behind the wheel of the SUV suffered cuts to his hands and face.
MiWay provides public transportation services in Mississauga, and its operations fall under the control of Toronto’s Transportation and Works department. MiWay came under fire in 2013 after it was revealed that a negligent driver who struck and killed a 76-year-old woman had not been relieved of his duties. The man entered a guilty plea to a charge of making an unsafe turn in Brampton court. A careless driving charge against the man was dropped as part of a plea agreement.
Bus passengers often suffer serious injuries in even minor collisions because they are not able to secure themselves with a safety belt. A personal injury lawyer may seek compensation for bus passengers who suffer injury, loss or damage due to the negligent behaviour of others. A lawsuit on their behalf may be brought against the transportation company, the bus operator or the driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident that caused their injuries.