Bus rides are often mundane, routine parts of our daily lives. However, when an unexpected accident occurs, the consequences can be anything but ordinary. In 2019 alone, there were 84 school buses, 15 intercity buses, and 78 transit buses involved in fatal crashes. Dealing with the aftermath of a bus accident can be emotionally and physically overwhelming. You may be eligible to file a bus accident lawsuit if you or a loved one were injured in a bus crash.
The Lake Law Firm is currently helping victims of bus crashes take legal action. We understand that bus accident lawsuits can require special attention due to the involvement of multiple parties, insurance companies, and potential government entities in the case of public transportation accidents.
Bus accidents encompass a wide range of incidents involving various types of buses, including public transportation vehicles, school buses, private coaches, and tour buses. These accidents can occur on city streets, highways, or rural roads, affecting passengers, drivers, pedestrians, and other road users alike. The sheer size and weight of buses make them more susceptible to causing significant damage and severe injuries in the event of a collision.
Buses are subject to many of the same hazards as any other motor vehicle. However, there are instances in which the actions of an operator or company result in an accident. The following are just a few examples of why a bus accident may occur:
One of the most prevalent causes of bus accidents is driver negligence. This includes distracted driving, speeding, reckless maneuvers, driving under the influence, and failing to obey traffic laws. Bus drivers are responsible for the safety of their passengers and others on the road, and any lapse in attentiveness can lead to disastrous consequences.
Buses, like any other vehicles, require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Neglecting maintenance tasks, such as brake inspections, tire checks, or engine maintenance, can lead to mechanical failures, increasing the risk of accidents.
Bus drivers must undergo proper training to drive these large and complex vehicles. Insufficient training can result in drivers lacking the skills to navigate challenging road conditions, maneuver emergencies, and prioritize passenger safety.
Some states have laws to ensure bus drivers don’t spend too many hours behind the wheel. A driver may become drowsy on long bus rides or if they exceed their allotted hours. When fatigue sets in, the driver is at an increased risk of causing an accident.
Furthermore, bus accidents may also involve factors beyond the bus driver’s control, such as inclement weather or the actions of other drivers on the road. Determining liability in such cases requires a thorough investigation to identify all contributing factors accurately.
When most people hear the word “bus, ” they may immediately wander to public transportation. Yet buses are used in various scenarios to transport large groups outside public transport. Below are some varying instances in which you can file a bus accident lawsuit:
Accidents involving public transportation vehicles, such as city buses, can have devastating consequences for not only passengers but also other people on the road. Pursuing a claim against government entities operating these services requires specific legal expertise. A city, county, state, or some other regional authority may oversee public buses.
Our firm is well-versed in navigating the complexities of liability issues and governmental immunities to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve.
School bus accidents can be particularly distressing, often involving children who may sustain severe injuries. When a school bus is involved in an accident, potentially responsible parties may include school districts, bus companies, drivers, or other motorists.
Accidents involving private coaches and tour buses can be complex, as multiple parties may be held accountable for the injuries and damages incurred. Buses that ferry passengers to tourist attractions or those that go on long-distance tours often have demanding schedules. Therefore, it is crucial that the company appropriately vets and monitors drivers to safeguard passengers. Also, these companies must regularly inspect their buses and make any necessary repairs. When private companies fail to uphold safety standards like supervising drivers or maintaining the buses, this can have dire consequences.
At The Lake Law Firm, we understand the profound impact that bus accidents can have on the lives of victims and their families. No matter the type of bus accident, we are committed to providing personalized legal representation. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a bus accident, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm to see if you qualify for a bus accident lawsuit.
What parties are liable in a bus crash depends on the type of accident and the events that led to it. In a bus accident lawsuit, the following parties may be held accountable:
Oftentimes, there are multiple factors at play in a bus crash. Consequently, it can be challenging to single out who is at fault if you decide to pursue legal action. A bus accident lawyer can identify the responsible party or parties in your claim.
Like trucking and motor vehicle accidents, bus crashes can result in a range of severe injuries. Victims of bus accidents may experience:
You may be eligible for financial compensation if you suffered one of the above following a bus accident. Additionally, if your loved one died in a bus crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you may qualify for a wrongful death lawsuit. Speak with us today to learn about your legal options going forward.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, you may recover compensation for any or all of the following:
Additionally, if you file a wrongful death bus accident lawsuit, you may be able to collect compensation for:
Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to assessing the full extent of the damages incurred, both economic and non-economic. From there, we will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation needed to rebuild lives and provide a sense of justice.
The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. A bus accident lawyer will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 525-3529 or submit an inquiry on this page.