Whether you use local bus lines to commute, run errands, visit friends, or do anything else, you expect the commercial automobile to be in operable condition. You also assume the driver will take steps to keep you and your fellow passengers safe. If neither of these conditions are met, or an accident occurs for another reason, such as because of a car driver’s negligence, you could receive compensation for any injuries you sustain.
Any auto accident shock can be overwhelming at first, especially when you are a passenger in a large vehicle and not necessarily paying attention because you believe you are safe. If you were injured in a collision involving a public transportation vehicle, schedule a consultation with a Greene County bus accident lawyer. An experienced personal injury attorney who has had success representing commercial vehicle accidents will evaluate your case to determine law violations and who is liable. The legal professional helps you navigate the entire claims process, so you have dedicated help to rely on as you recover.
Public transit, school bus, shuttle, tour, and private coach accidents requiring attorney assistance typically occur for these reasons:
Among the most common injuries resulting from bus collisions include bruises, lacerations, burns, whiplash, internal organ damage, and traumatic brain injuries. Accidents can also cause neck, back, and serious spinal injuries.
Establishing liability in a bus crash case depends on the reason for the accident. If the driver failed to pay attention, was intoxicated or overly tired, or engaged in dangerous behavior such as speeding, running red lights, or cutting off other drivers, that company the individual works for generally becomes liable. These companies are responsible for training competent drivers who take their jobs seriously, meaning a driver who does not follow the road rules, drinks on the job, or does anything else that impairs passenger safety reflects on the company’s hiring and training processes.
If the accident occurred because of a faulty product, either the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance facility faces a lawsuit from the plaintiffs and their legal representatives. Accidents that were the fault of other drivers, such as those operating cars, trucks, and other commercial vehicles, make these drivers liable. Government entities that failed to maintain safe roads become liable as well if potholes or other hazardous conditions caused or contributed to the accident.
When passengers sustain injuries from bus collisions, they can typically claim economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages provide compensation for tangible losses such as ongoing medical care, missed income, and reduced earning capacity. Non-economic damages refer to the psychological damage traumatic accidents often inflict, including pain and suffering, and emotional anguish. Legal professionals representing plaintiffs in commercial vehicle collisions furnish evidence for both loss types to win the most damages, including copies of medical bills, witness statements, police reports, and work leave notices.
Plaintiffs have three years to file claims according to Mississippi Code § Title 15, Chapter 1, Section 49. It is best to seek help from a local bus accident attorney to learn about the exact deadline to file a claim.
The physical injuries from a bus collision may heal quickly, but the emotional injuries and the financial hardships can take longer to recover from. Consult a Greene County Bus Accident Lawyer soon to discuss the specifics of your case and your legal options for compensation. Schedule a consultation today to get started on your case.