Last week, the MAX Transit – Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority was found liable for the injuries caused by a 2015 bus crash in Fairfield, Alabama. Alexander Shunnarah Personal Injury Attorneys, P.C. secured a $12 million jury verdict for the actions of the driver, who lost consciousness while driving 20 passengers,causing the bus to overturn and land in a ravine.
During the trial, Shunnarah presented evidence that the MAX Transit bus driver had passed out twice prior to this collision while operating a MAX bus through the greater Birmingham area. The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority, which operates the MAX Transit system, had failed to take action after these two prior fainting occurrences.
The injuries of the passengers ranged in severity, with the most severe injury resulting in Charlyse Williams losing her leg. Upon recognizing that the driver was losing consciousness, Williams rushed to the front of the bus in an attempt to prevent the collision. As a result of her selfless act, Williams’ right foot and ankle were so severely mangled that doctors were forced to amputate her leg below the knee.
“We applaud the jury for banding together and taking ownership of this community. Even though none of the jurors rely on MAX bus for their means of transportation, their verdict makes clear that everyone, including those less fortunate than them, are worthy of protection,” said attorney Brandon Bishop, who represented the plaintiffs with managing attorney Sara Williams.