Public transportation, such as buses, is often the preferred mode of travel for millions of Americans. However, bus accidents can leave passengers seriously injured, leading them to consider compensation for medical expenses and other damages. If you were a victim of a bus accident, you may be wondering if you can file a personal injury claim. This article will explore the process of filing a personal injury claim regarding a bus accident.
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Types of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents, like any other accident, can occur in various ways, including:
Collision with Another Vehicle
When a bus collides with another vehicle, whether it’s a passenger car, truck, or bike, passengers often get injured. If you were a passenger on the bus involved in a collision with another vehicle, it’s likely that you can file a personal injury claim against the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Accidents
Bus accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists can cause severe injuries. If you were walking or cycling near the bus involved in the accident, you may be able to file an injury claim.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents on a bus can also lead to personal injury claims. For instance, you might slip on a wet or icy surface while boarding or alighting from the bus. In this scenario, you may be able to file an injury claim against the bus driver, the bus company, or the municipality responsible for maintaining the bus stop.
Who is At-Fault in a Bus Accident?
Bus accidents can be complicated, and determining fault is not always cut-and-dry. Sometimes, multiple factors can contribute to the accident. Some of the parties that could be at-fault in a bus accident include:
The Bus Driver
Bus drivers owe passengers a duty of care to keep them safe. A driver who ignores traffic laws, speeds, or drives while distracted, can cause an accident, making the driver at-fault.
The Bus Company
The bus company that employs the driver can also be held responsible for the accident. If the bus company doesn’t follow regulations for hiring and training drivers or does not maintain the bus correctly, they can be held liable for the accident.
Other Motorists
Other motorists driving in a reckless or negligent manner can cause accidents involving buses.
Government Agencies and Third-party Contractors
In some cases, the government agency responsible for road maintenance or third-party contractors might be at fault.
What to do After a Bus Accident
If you’re involved in a bus accident, there are vital steps you should take to protect your rights. Firstly, seek medical attention immediately, even if you think you’re okay. Some injuries might not manifest until later, and getting prompt medical attention will help document the extent of your injuries if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
Secondly, report the accident to the bus driver or company. Ensure that they know the details of the accident, such as time, location, and what happened. Finally, gather evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, the bus and any other vehicles involved, and get contact information for witnesses.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Filing a personal injury claim following a bus accident can help you get compensation for your injuries. If you decide to file a claim, it’s in your best interest to seek legal representation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand the legal process, advise you on the best course of action, and fight for your right to fair compensation.
Conclusion
If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, you may wonder if you’re entitled to compensation. Since bus accidents can happen in different ways and involve different parties, it’s essential to seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. By doing so, you can get a better understanding of your options and the amount of compensation you can seek. Remember, protecting your rights after a bus accident is crucial, and the sooner you take action, the better.