When a person steps into a city transit bus or places his or her child into a school bus, trust is placed onto the bus company, the bus driver, and others with regard to safety and security. For many public bus riders, experiencing a bus accident is the least of their concern.
Unfortunately, bus accidents happen regularly. When an accident occurs, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be far-reaching. Fortunately, our legal system helps ensure that losses caused by bus accidents are borne by those responsible, and not by the injured commuter. Any passenger who has been injured while in a bus may be entitled to financial compensation.
Bus Accident Injuries
Like most traffic accidents, bus accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries. These injuries can include, but are not limited to the following: Whiplash, Broken or fractured bones, Sprains, Head trauma, Spinal cord injury, Internal bleeding, Deep cuts and lacerations, and Death.
As a result of the construction and design of these large vehicles, bus accidents present unique injuries. For instance, some buses can be prone to rollover accidents, and because most buses do not have seat belts, passengers can suffer serious injuries when being thrown from their seat. Additionally, there are many possessions within a bus that can create sharp projectiles upon collision.
Types of Damages Available After a Bus Accident
Contingent on the nature of the accident and the injuries sustained, compensation may be recovered for the following losses: Medical costs, Loss of income and benefits, Loss of earning capacity, Rehabilitation and physical therapy, Life care expenses, Pain and suffering, Loss of quality of life, Punitive damages, and Wrongful death.
Unique Legal Issues Associated With Bus Accidents
Bus accidents present issues that are not normally considered in other types of traffic accidents. In most auto accidents, compensation may be available from personal auto insurance coverage or the other driver’s auto insurance. In bus accidents, however, passengers will likely not have personal insurance coverage for the accident. Unfortunately, when a third party is involved in the bus accident, the bus company may carry immunity from liability, therefore leaving injured passengers with the financial burdens of their injuries.
When a third party is involved and is rendered responsible, it may be possible to file a claim against the third-party for compensation. If the bus driver was responsible for the accident, obtaining monetary compensation may become more complex.
A vast majority of public buses are operated by government agencies and these agencies are generally self-insured. When a government agency denies a claim, filing an appeal becomes much more complicated.
Obtain the Legal Support of a Knowledgeable Bus Accident Attorney
Bus accidents can result in a variety of injuries that can affect a person in a number of ways. If you or a loved one was injured as a passenger in a bus, it is important to seek the support of a knowledgeable attorney who will ensure maximum compensation is secured.
SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation excels in complex bus accident cases in California. For many years, the law firm has successfully championed on behalf of those who have been injured as a consequence of another’s negligence. If you have been injured in a bus accident, consult the legal services of a law firm who will aggressively advocate on your behalf. Consider scheduling a no-obligation consultation with SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation today.
