What You Should Know About Bus Accidents

What You Need To Know About Bus Accidents?

Bus accidents can cause an array of issues for passengers if the bus driver does not perform the highest level of care. Not only can a bus accident lead to extreme injuries, but also long-term consequences and more. In the state of California, as in many other states, buses are a popular way of getting around–whether they are charter buses, minibuses, limo buses, double decker buses, or others, occupants expect to get to their destination safe and sound. Unfortunately, however, that is not always the case. As a result, bus accidents have the potential to cause serious accidents that can hurt or kill passengers, pedestrians, and other people on the road.

When it comes to being involved in a collision, passengers may be entitled to justice and compensation for their losses. It is imperative to seek assistance from a knowledgeable Los Angeles bus crash lawyer, who is experienced in these types of cases. You should never deal with a legal claim on your own because it is more than likely that you will get much less than you deserve. However, when you hire an attorney to represent your case, we can assure that we will fight for you to get you the best results possible.

Causes Of Bus Accidents

Just like any other auto accident, those that involve a bus are also common every year. There are several instances in which a bus accident can occur, including the following:

Failure to see other drivers on the road: Since buses are much larger in comparison to other vehicles on the road, it is common for bus drivers to fail to see other cars. Bus drivers are easily susceptible to this because there are several blind spots, making it extremely difficult to see everything that is surrounding the bus.

Failure to follow the laws and rules of the road: Although many states have regulations in place for drivers on the road, not everyone abides by them–including bus drivers. Many bus drivers fail to follow the laws and rules of the road and as a result, it is likely that the driver will cause a serious crash.

Driver Fatigue: Bus accidents caused by fatigued drivers are much more common than people may think. Considering several bus drivers have to submit to demanding and tiresome shifts, their driving performance can take a huge hit.

Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Despite the fact that passengers put all of their trust in bus drivers getting them to and from their destination, there are some instances in which bus drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Although it is 100% illegal to operate any type of vehicle while being under the influence, it still does occur. As a result, this type of scenario will very likely cause an accident.

Lack Of Bus Maintenance: When a bus is poorly maintained, it makes it more susceptible to an array of issues that can cause an accident. Although it is a law for bus companies to regularly maintain their vehicles, there are instances in which many fail to do so.

Faulty Mechanisms: There are scenarios in which a mechanical error can arise. Design maintenance, such as faulty brakes, tires, suspension, and more can cause an accident.

Dangerous Road Conditions: Poor road conditions are a lot more common than one may think. Because roads are constantly active with cars traveling in and out of the area, the pavement can become hazardous if not maintained.

Common Injuries Caused In Bus Accidents

Because buses are significantly larger than other vehicles and they do not have adequate safety restraints, such as seatbelts, airbags, etc, victims often sustain extreme injuries. As a result, the victims may sustain one or more of these common injuries:

• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck injuries
• Burn injuries
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Wrongful death

Recoverable Damages In Bus Accidents

There are several damages that may be recovered by a team of lawyers. It is important that you consult with a counsel who will fight for your rights. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be entitled to the following:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages and future lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages
• Funeral and burial expenses

Who Can Be Held Responsible For Your Injuries

When it comes to bus accidents, there are several different entities that may be involved. It is best to consult with a lawyer that has won public transportation cases, to determine who will be held responsible for your injuries, as they are experienced in gathering all of the evidence that led up to the accident. For example, here is a list of the potential entities that may be held responsible:

• The bus company
• The bus driver
• Maintenance provider
• Bus or parts supplier
• Other drivers

Protecting Your Rights After A Bus Accident Occurs

It is extremely important that you protect your rights following a bus accident. In order to do so (if you are able), follow these steps:

Call 911: If you or anyone else is injured, dial 911 immediately. In addition, keep any medical treatment documents related to your case, as your attorney will need them for evidence.

File a police report: Make sure to file a police report, as it is also an important piece of evidence for your case.

Witnesses: If there was anyone who witnessed the accident, it is important to take down his or her information so they can give their statement.

Take Photos: If you are able to, make sure to take photos of the accident site, the damages of the bus and other vehicles involved, and any injuries you sustained.

It is imperative that you contact a lawyer soon after an accident, as he or she will advise you on what to do next. Your lawyer will take on your case and fight for your rights so that you get the justice and full compensation you deserve for your losses.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, we are here to help you every step of the way. You are not alone. Our legal staff and Los Angeles personal injury attorney will do whatever it takes to get you back where you need to be–physically, emotionally, and financially.