Bus Accident-Do You Have a Claim?

The American public regard bus transportation a safe way to travel.  They can be dangerous if they are involved in a road accident.  Serious bus accidents often have multiple injuries and possibly deaths.  There are several items that can cause a bus accident, whether it is a public transit vehicle or school bus.  Carelessness, improper maintenance, dangerous road conditions, and weather can play a part in a bus accident.

One researcher claims there are about 300 bus accidents each year based on reports by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  Almost half of those involve school buses.  It is every parent's nightmare when a school bus accident occurs.  The scenes we see on the news of school buses turned on their sides, or crumpled on the highway is enough to strike fear in every parent and grandparent's heart.  One reason for the high amount of injuries involved in a school bus accident is because most buses that haul students are not equipped with seat belts.  If another car hits a school bus the children have little they can do but hold on as tight as possible. 

Mass transit buses also pose a hazard and if you are injured in a transit bus accident you may be able to file a claim against the Bus Company or city that manages the bus.  You could be a passenger on the bus, a passenger or driver of another car, or even a pedestrian on the sidewalk.  Buses and other modes of public transport are required to have higher safety standards to protect their riders.  They are liable for any injuries suffered in a bus accident.  Public transit vehicles are required to be sure the equipment is in good condition and well kept.  They also should employ competent drivers with a clean driving record who are skilled in driving the bus.  If fault of the accident belongs to the driver, they may be liable for any claims filed because of the accident. 

As with any other injury, there are certain procedures you should follow a bus accident.  You need to protect yourself and your future health by visiting a hospital emergency room or your private doctor.  You need to decide your level of injury and if there is a possibility of continuing problems caused by the accident.  You cannot know if you will have long-term effects unless a medical provider sees you. 

Gather as much information as you can about what happened just prior, during, and after the accident.  Get names wherever possible of anyone who was also involved and any possible witnesses.  Be sure you get addresses and contact phone numbers of everyone involved.

You must not sign any paper or document without consulting with an attorney!  Don't talk to anyone about what happened except the police or your lawyer.  Anything you may say could be used against you in court.  Do not accept a monetary settlement amount without contacting an attorney.  It is recommended you hire a lawyer to represent you in a situation like this.