Bus accidents can lead to serious injuries based on the size and weight of buses, the number of passengers, and the absence of safety features like seat belts. If you were a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver involved in a bus accident and were injured, you are eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
A bus injury attorney is an expert in assisting injury victims in weathering the intricate legal process of making claims against bus operators, governments, or irresponsible drivers.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligence on the part of the bus driver, the bus company, or other motorists. Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue – Long shifts and inadequate rest can lead to impaired judgment and slower reaction times.
- Distracted driving – Texting, eating, adjusting the GPS, or talking to passengers can lead to accidents.
- Speeding or reckless driving – Failing to obey traffic laws can result in crashes.
- Poor bus maintenance – Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, and engine failures can contribute to accidents.
- Dangerous road conditions – Potholes, debris, or poorly lit roads can cause crashes.
- Negligence by other drivers – A reckless driver cutting off a bus or failing to yield can lead to collisions.
- Inadequate bus driver training – Some accidents occur due to inexperienced or improperly trained drivers.
Types of Bus Accident Injuries
Bus accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts to life-altering disabilities. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Head injuries and concussions – These can lead to cognitive impairment and long-term medical issues.
- Spinal cord injuries – Paralysis and chronic pain may result from severe spinal damage.
- Broken bones and fractures – High-impact crashes can cause severe bone injuries.
- Whiplash and neck injuries – Sudden stops or collisions can strain the neck and spine.
- Internal injuries – Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent.
- Cuts, bruises, and lacerations – Shattered glass or impact with hard surfaces can cause serious wounds.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident?
Determining liability in a bus accident can be challenging, as multiple parties may be responsible. A bus injury lawyer can help identify the at-fault party and hold them accountable.
1. Bus Driver
- If the driver was negligent, distracted, speeding, or under the influence, they may be liable for the accident.
2. Bus Company
- Bus companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, maintaining their vehicles, and ensuring safety regulations are followed.
- If they fail to meet these obligations, they can be held accountable.
3. Government Entities
- If the accident involves a public transit bus, a claim may need to be filed against the city or state transportation authority.
- Government claims have strict deadlines and specific filing procedures.
4. Other Drivers
- If another driver’s reckless or negligent behavior caused the accident, they may be liable for damages.
5. Bus or Parts Manufacturer
- If a mechanical failure or defective bus part contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be responsible.
Steps to Take After a Bus Accident
Taking immediate action after a bus accident can help protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can appear later.
- Report the accident – Notify the authorities and obtain a police report.
- Document the scene – Take photos of the bus, accident site, injuries, and any damaged vehicles.
- Get witness information – Collect names and contact details of other passengers or bystanders.
- Obtain bus and driver details – Record the bus number, company name, and driver’s name.
- Keep medical records – Save all medical bills, treatment plans, and prescriptions related to your injuries.
- Consult a bus injury lawyer – An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims process and negotiate with insurance companies.
Filing a Bus Injury Claim
If you were injured in a bus accident, you may be eligible for compensation through different types of claims.
1. Personal Injury Claims
- If the bus driver, company, or another party was at fault, you can file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
2. Insurance Claims
- Bus companies carry large insurance policies, but insurers may try to reduce payouts.
- A bus injury lawyer can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
3. Government Claims
- If a city bus or public transportation was involved, you may need to file a claim against a government entity.
- These claims have strict deadlines, often requiring action within six months.
Types of Compensation for Bus Injury Victims
A bus injury lawsuit can help victims recover financial compensation for:
- Medical expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost wages – Compensation for time missed from work due to injury.
- Pain and suffering – Emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life.
- Permanent disability – If the injury results in long-term impairment or disability.
- Wrongful death damages – Compensation for families who lost a loved one in a fatal bus accident.
Why You Need a Bus Injury Lawyer
insurance companies, government entities, and legal deadlines. A bus injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
- Determine liability and identify all responsible parties.
- Handle all insurance negotiations to secure maximum compensation.
- File lawsuits if necessary and represent you in court.
About the Author
Neil Bhartia
Neil Bhartia isn’t your typical, stuffy attorney that you see on TV. While some have their sights exclusively on money and treat their clients like a number, Neil takes a personal interest in every single client he has. As an empath, Neil understands that people that seek legal help are typically in an involuntary, and stressful situation, and he goes out of his way to diffuse the stress and educate clients on each every detail of the legal process.
