It was recently announced that Megabus, a popular express bus company, has expanded routes to now include New Orleans. People in Louisiana will be able to ride to Atlanta, Montgomery and Mobile for as little as $1 per seat. However, the announcement may have come at a bad time. Nationally, reports have been made of drunk driving and bus accidents involving Megabus buses.

Since 2006, ridership on buses has increased after nearly 50 years of decline. This trend illustrates that many travelers are taking more cost-effective trips and staying a little closer to home. Despite the increase in riders, some claim that bus companies are focusing more on their bottom lines instead of passenger safety.

Last year, the National Transportation Safety Board released a report that included information on three categories of buses: conventional, curbside and non-scheduled. Curbside bus lines have the highest rate of accidents. However, overall safety increases as driver training increases, no matter the category. It stands to reason that established carriers may be safer because they are able to train drivers for longer than carriers of the low-cost lines.

In general, bus travel is said to be safe. However, the growing popularity of the transportation may come with increased pressures on bus drivers. As it is, drivers are frequently cited for speeding, driving while drowsy and other unsafe driving behaviors. Additionally, not all bus lines keep accurate driving records or maintain safe equipment in order to save money. It is possible, however, that as more people buy bus tickets, companies will increase their focus on safety.

Buses are regulated as common carriers and therefore, bus drivers and operators have an obligation to protect passengers and other drivers. In the event that a person is injured in a bus accident due to driver negligence, improper maintenance or inadequate safety conditions, damages may be recovered.

Source: WJLA, "Megabus, other low-cost curbside bus companies cited for speed, driver fatigue," Kendis Gibson, Feb. 15, 2012