Taking the bus is an affordable, convenient way to get around, whether you’re heading to work or going on a weekend getaway. Although letting a driver take the wheel has its advantages, bus accidents can result in serious injuries and fatalities. Our bus accident lawyers at Moore Law Firm have recovered maximum compensation for clients in cases involving public buses, school buses, commercially-owned buses, and other types of transportation injury claims.
Types Of Bus Accidents
Public bus accidents – Because public buses are often packed, many people may be injured when they’re involved in an accident. Crashes may occur due to mechanical failure like malfunctioning brakes or steering, and many public bus accidents involve bicyclists and pedestrians as well. Although municipalities are typically responsible for the maintenance and safety of public buses, bringing a personal injury claim against them is challenging.
Commercial bus accidents– Companies like Greyhound and Lenzner Tours offer bus service from coast to coast and are utilized by millions of Americans each year. Like tractor-trailers, federal regulations for commercial buses are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). There are strict requirements for the length of time that bus drivers are allowed to be on the road and certain standards for safety and proper maintenance must be maintained. If a bus company or driver fails to adhere to these rules and regulations, they may be liable for any injuries or damages caused by their negligence.
School bus accidents – School buses are still the safest way to transport children to and from school, but accidents happen. A child may be injured while getting off the bus, or motorists may ignore a bus’s flashing red lights and cause injury to a child. Because school buses do not have seat belts, it’s easy for kids to be hurt when they’re involved in a crash. Children inside the bus may be thrown around and suffer injuries such as broken bones or head, neck, and spinal injuries or traumatic brain injury.
Causes Of Bus Accidents
Most buses are tall with a very high center of gravity. When involved in an accident at high speed, they often roll over, which increases the risk of catastrophic injuries and fatalities. That’s why it’s so important for bus drivers to have proper training and to make the effort to drive responsibly. Unfortunately, some bus drivers don’t operate their vehicles in a safe manner. Driver error is a major cause of bus accidents. Some of the following factors may be involved as well:
- Distracted driving, such as talking on the phone or texting
- Drowsy driving
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Failure to heed road signs and traffic signals
- Driving on unfamiliar roads
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving too fast for conditions in inclement weather
- Mechanical malfunction such as brake or steering failure
- Tire blowout caused by inadequate inspection and maintenance
- Defective parts or components
- Faulty design
Bus Accident Injuries
Occupants of a bus involved in an accident often suffer serious injury. They may be thrown from their seats and slam into walls, poles, other seats, windows, or each other. Bicyclists and pedestrians who are hit by buses in urban areas are often killed. Some common injuries that may be sustained in bus accidents include:
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injury
- Paralysis
- Facial lacerations
- Burns, scarring or disfigurement
- Broken or crushed bones
- Amputation
- Emotional and psychological trauma
Victims of bus accidents often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, not to mention the physical and psychological pain they may have to endure for a lifetime. Although no amount of money can turn back time and prevent your injuries and losses, our Mobile bus accident attorneys ensure that your claim is accurately valued and fight to recover maximum compensation so your health and financial future are protected.
Determining Liability In Bus Accident Claims
Determining liability in bus accidents can be challenging. Each situation is unique, and a thorough investigation of how the accident happened is vital. Our team at Moore Law Firm is well-versed in handling these types of claims. We are familiar with the FMCSA regulations and state laws that govern the operation of buses, large trucks, and tractor-trailers. Multiple parties may be liable for your injuries, and myriad evidence must be collected to help us meticulously build your case. Our bus accident lawyers will investigate the facts and evidence surrounding the crash and determine which parties may liable for your damages.
Depending on the specifics of how the crash occurred, the following parties may be liable:
Bus company – Transportation companies are responsible for ensuring that its drivers are properly trained and buses are inspected, maintained and repaired according to FMCSA standards. If a bus company failed to perform regular maintenance or was negligent in some other way, they may be liable for your damages.
Municipality or local government – If your injuries were caused by an accident involving a public bus, it’s critical to seek the counsel of an experienced attorney who understands the processes, procedures, and timelines for bringing a claim against a government agency. Municipalities often have special protections under the law and deadlines for filing a claim may be limited.
Bus driver – If a driver’s reckless or careless actions caused the accident, they may be liable for your injuries.
Maintenance facility – If the accident was caused due to the error or negligence of the maintenance company or mechanic that worked on the bus, they may be accountable for your injuries and losses.
Vehicle, parts, or components manufacturer – If a defective design or product was the cause of the crash, the manufacturer may be responsible for damages.
Other drivers involved in the accident – Sometimes bus accidents are caused by other motorists. Even if another motorist was only partially liable, you may be able to collect compensation from their insurance company.
Protect Your Rights after a Bus Accident
After any accident, it’s vital to ensure your rights and interests are protected. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re severely injured. Symptoms of some injuries don’t appear until days or even weeks later. Your medical records are important evidence that will be critical if you bring a bus accident injury claim. Don’t accept a settlement or sign anything from an insurance company before speaking with a bus accident lawyer. Our attorneys can evaluate your case, help you understand your rights, and advise you on how to proceed. At Moore Law Firm, our bus accident attorneys offer free consultations and take personal injury cases on contingency, which means you won’t have any up-front costs and we only get paid if you do.
Contact Our Mobile Bus Accident Lawyers
Injuries sustained in bus accidents can be overwhelming. Our compassionate legal team is here to help you get through it and recover the compensation you deserve. Call Moore Law Firm at 251-445-7602 or contact us online today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
