Motor bus companies have been under scrutiny the last few years since several interstate collisions have resulted in the serious injury and accidental death of passengers. This weekend, a New York City bound tour bus from Canada overturned on a highway exit ramp in New Jersey and injured 23 passengers. According to reports, the bus slid off an embankment and landed on its side off of Interstate 80.

Witnesses and accident victims stated that several windows burst during the accident and the frames pinned several people who were later freed and taken to the hospital. The bus accident caused a significant number of injuries ranging in severity. At least 8 of the passengers were admitted to the hospital in critical condition.

This is one of several coach bus accidents over the last few years on major U.S. highways. Another accident involving a bus traveling to a Connecticut casino struck a guardrail as it entered New York City, killing 13 people. Similar commercial vehicle accidents are thoroughly investigated to determine the cause of the crash and identify all responsible parties. Though the bus driver told authorities that he was cut off by another vehicle, it was unclear what caused the rollover.

The bus was chartered by a Toronto-based company for a church youth group. Passengers who were not taken to the hospital for injuries were placed on another bus and continued on their journey. Passengers of this accident could face months of recovery, even permanent injuries. Victims and their families may be entitled to significant compensation for their personal and economic losses.

Source: Associated Press, “Bus from Canada overturns on NJ exit ramp, 23 hurt,” Oct. 6, 2012