A SURVIVOR of one of the country’s worst accidents that
claimed 43 lives, when a Zambia-bound King Lion bus rammed into a tree along
the Harare-Chirundu Road, is suing the bus company and its deceased driver for
more than $1 million.
The accident occurred on June 7, 2017 at around 10pm at the
257km peg near Nyamakate shops, Karoi in Mashonaland West province and it was
declared a state of disaster.
The driver, Mr Jimson Ruzvidzo was among those who died on
the spot.
Mr Khulani Ndlovu, one of the survivors who was left
disabled after the accident, is now suing King Lion Motorways Bus Company for
$1 027 950 being general damages, medical expenses, pain and suffering and
disfigurement.
Mr Ndlovu, through his lawyers Masiye-Moyo and Associates
has filed summons at the Bulawayo High Court citing King Lion Motorways (Pvt)
Ltd and Jimson’s widow, Mrs Joyce Ruzvidzo in her capacity as the executor of
her deceased husband’s estate.
Mr Ndlovu said the accident was caused by Jimson’s
negligence while driving his employer’s bus.
He said following the accident, he is now unable to fend
for his family and has lifetime injuries which will see him seeking medical
assistance in future.
“The accident was due to the negligence of the first
defendant (King Lion Motorways Bus Company) in that it failed to service or
maintain the vehicle to keep it roadworthy. First defendant is therefore
vicariously liable,” said Mr Ndlovu.
He said as a result of the accident, he is now experiencing
hearing difficulties, has limited movement of the neck and back flexion and
pelvic movement.
His eyesight was also affected and he is receiving
physiotherapy as well as CT brain scan.
“As a result of the accident I suffered damages in the
amount of US$16 449, $1 027 950 and R800 for estimated future medical expenses,
special damages and general damages due to pain and suffering, disfigurement
and loss of amenities,” said Mr Ndlovu.
He said he also lost US$4 701 and R800 in cash following
the accident.
Recounting the horror crash, in papers before the court, Mr
Ndlovu said he was one of the passengers who boarded a Scania Iriza bus
registration ABQ 2875 owned by King Lion on the day in question.
The bus was being driven by Jimson Ruzvidzo who was
employed by the first defendant.
He said Ruzvidzo was speeding and passengers had complained
and warned him against that. Mr Ndlovu said the driver was stubborn and ignored
passengers’ concerns.
He said the driver failed to negotiate a curve resulting in
the bus veering off the road and hitting a big tree. Chronicle
0 comments:
Post a Comment