The bus crash that killed 17 Vietnamese Catholics on Friday resulted in more than tragedy. Authorities from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have ordered the bus companies linked to the bus that crashed to cease operations due to several violations. They further state that the companies (and presumably specifically their buses) pose an “imminent hazard.” Another bus in Carthage, Missouri was taken out of service because it was operating illegally.
The buses were registered to Iguala BusMex Inc. and Angel Tours Inc., based out of Houston, Texas. Both companies are owned by Angel De La Torre. According to reports, Angel Tours was taken out of service in June because of repeated safety violations, and Iguala BusMex was formed two months ago, and had not yet been given the go-ahead by the U.S. Department of Transportation to carry passengers across state lines. In order for this to happen, the company needed to show proof they had secured $5 million in insurance, and had not yet done so.
Authorities are focusing on the right front tire becoming separated and resulting in the crash, but are still looking into other factors, such as driver fatigue. The driver, Barret Wayne Broussard, is currently in critical condition. However, he was a driver for the failed Angel Tours Inc., and has a history of driving violations. He has been cited by police three times since 2001 – once for DUI, and twice for speeding. He has also failed roadside inspections twice since last year, and had his vehicle taken out of service for logbook violations. Mr. Broussard’s medical card also expired in May.
In addition to the safety record of the buses, the separated tire, and Broussard’s record, Grayson County officials believe that the stretch of the highway where the accident occurred has a speed limit that is much too high. However, Texas Department of Transportation spokesperson, Christopher Lippincott, has noted accidents on this stretch of highway are lower than they are in other parts of Texas.
As this investigation goes on, another bus in Mississippi has crashed on its way to a casino, killing at least four people, and a bus in Las Vegas crashed, injuring 20. Authorities are also looking at a tire problem in the Las Vegas crash.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer in your area.
