Port Arthur, TX (March 8, 2025) – A collision involving three charter buses in a construction zone on Texas Highway 73 sent 68 people to local hospitals Wednesday afternoon, March 5. Fortunately, none of the injuries were life-threatening, and all passengers were released after medical evaluations.
The crash occurred around 4:00 p.m. in the 3000 block of TX-73. According to Port Arthur Police Chief Tim Duriso, a dump truck cut into the lane in front of the first bus, causing the driver to slow down. The second bus also reduced speed, but the third bus was unable to stop in time, leading to a chain reaction crash.
Emergency responders, including the Port Arthur Police and Fire Departments and City Ambulance, arrived quickly to assist the injured. Patients were transported to area hospitals, with 36 taken to Baptist Hospital in Beaumont, four to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital, and 28 to The Medical Center of Southeast Texas. Authorities are reviewing video footage from the bus company, Hotard Coaches, to determine more details about the accident. No citations have been issued at this time.
We are grateful that no critical injuries were reported and wish all those involved a speedy recovery.
Bus Accidents in Texas
Bus accidents in Texas pose significant risks, especially when multiple vehicles and passengers are involved. According to state data, thousands of commercial vehicle crashes occur each year, often leading to injuries due to the size and weight of buses. While buses are designed for passenger safety, high-speed or chain-reaction crashes can still result in substantial harm.
Understanding the risks of bus accidents can help highlight the importance of safety precautions. Some common causes of bus crashes include:
- Driver Fatigue – Bus drivers often operate under tight schedules, increasing the risk of exhaustion, which can lead to slower reaction times and impaired judgment.
- Mechanical Failures – Poorly maintained buses may experience brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions, making accidents more likely.
- Construction Zones – Work areas often create lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and sudden stops, increasing the likelihood of multi-vehicle collisions.
- Traffic Congestion – Heavy traffic can lead to sudden braking and rear-end collisions, particularly for large buses with slower stopping distances.
- Other Drivers’ Actions – As seen in this case, the reckless behavior of another vehicle, such as a dump truck cutting into a lane, can trigger dangerous chain reactions.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, it is crucial to reach out to our auto accident attorneys at The McGuire Firm as soon as possible. Insurance companies and transportation companies often work quickly to minimize their liability, so having legal representation can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
At The McGuire Firm, we have successfully handled thousands of vehicle accident cases, helping injured victims secure the compensation they deserve. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. If you or someone you know has been injured in a Texas bus crash, call us today at (903) 630-7154 for a free consultation.
