It’s typical to be involved in a bus accident and not be sure how to proceed when it comes to filing a legal claim for your injuries. If you were a passenger on the bus when it was involved in an accident you may not have sustained severe injuries compared to the person that was hit by the bus. Most of the time, it leaves the passengers without any severe injuries. But, either way, this guide will provide you with some frequently asked questions in relation to bus accidents. It will also inform you whether you should talk to a lawyer after a bus accident.
FAQs About Bus Accidents
Are bus rides safe? Or Should I avoid riding them for those reasons?
Buses are mainly used as public transportation to get around. Even though there aren’t seat belts on most public buses, riding a bus is generally considered safe. Since buses are large, they are typically able to resist a lot of force following an accident. Bus accidents may not result in many injuries among its passengers. Additionally, bus drivers go through careful training to learn how to safely operate the buses.
What are some of the main causes of bus accidents?
Accidents can involve buses even though they are relatively safe to use as transportation. But, when bus accidents to occur, they are normally caused by distracted drivers. Sometimes a passenger can cause a distraction which can result in the bus driver losing focus. Accidents can also occur as a result of other drivers on the road.
I was injured in a bus accident. How long do I have to file a claim?
It depends on the state you reside in. For example, most states give you two years following an accident to file a claim for your injuries.
What are some ways I can prove fault for a bus accident?
This is a question many people have following a bus accident, or any accident for that matter. The best way to prove fault will largely depend on your medical expenses and other expenses that you were responsible for in relation to the accident. It may not be easy to always determine fault in a bus accident. This is why having a bus accident attorney on your side is necessary to conduct an investigation. You will need to be sure to include a copy of the police report, witness interviews, and an examination of the accident scene to your attorney. These are all key pieces of information to help determine the fault of a bus accident.
Who is responsible for paying for expenses related to injuries following a bus accident?
If you are equipped with PIP insurance, you could rely on this policy to help you pay for your lost wages and medical expenses. However, if you don’t have PIP insurance, it will largely depend on whose fault it is. For example, if the bus driver caused the accident, his employer will be liable for all related expenses. If another driver was on the road that was responsible for the accident, his insurance would be liable for those expenses.
Can I still file a lawsuit if the bus was government-owned?
The majority of buses are either owned by state or local governments since they are providing public transportation. You may still be eligible to file a lawsuit for damages, but it may be challenging to sue any particular government entity. You should never battle a government-owned company by yourself. Instead, you should hire an experienced attorney whose familiar with these types of operations.