Calabasas Bus Accident Lawyer

Although traveling by bus is a relatively safe means of transportation, accidents involving school buses, public buses and charter buses can cause serious injuries to passengers, pedestrians and other motorists. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, you may be able to obtain significant compensation by pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. Call today to begin working with a trusted Calabasas bus accident lawyer.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

While numerous factors are involved in bus accidents, some of the common causes include:

• Distracted driving – Bus drivers can be distracted by eating, talking to passengers, or using cellphones and GPS navigation devices. While many states have laws prohibiting the use of handheld devices for talking or texting, distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of traffic accidents in general.
• Speeding – Because bus drivers operate under strict schedules, they are are prone to speeding through traffic, which can lead to serious accidents. Due to their size and weight, buses are difficult to stop, and even more so when a driver is speeding.
• Driver fatigue – Bus drivers who work long hours or cover long distances can become fatigued, which may affect their ability to maneuver the bus or respond to traffic and road hazards.
• Drugs and Alcohol – Drivers who operate a bus under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose a serious risk to passengers, pedestrians and other motorists.
• Mechanical Defects/Poor Maintenance – Bus companies are required to properly maintain buses according to applicable state safety standards, however, faulty brakes, brake lights, worn tires, and other defects contribute to numerous accidents.

A skilled bus accident attorney in Calabasas could help determine the cause of your accident and injuries and who to hold legally responsible for your damages.

Determining Liability in a Bus Accident

Assessing who is at fault in a bus accident can be complicated, particularly when a number of parties may have contributed to the accident, including:

• Bus Drivers – Poorly trained drivers, those who commit traffic violations or drive while fatigued, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, can be held liable for an accident.
• Bus Companies – Bus companies are obligated to conduct routine vehicle inspections and maintenance, hire qualified drivers and comply with a variety of state and federal regulations. A bus company can held liable for failing to meet these obligations or for the negligent actions of a bus driver.
• Other Motorists  – Another vehicle driver who causes an accident, or drives recklessly and cause a bus driver to lose control, may be held liable for injuries and property damage caused by the accident.

A Calabasas bus accident attorney has the experience necessary to gather and preserve evidence, as well as connect with expert witnesses, to prove who is at fault.

Bus Accident Injury Claims

There are unique issues related to bus accident injury claims, in part because many buses are operated by government entities such as public transportation bureaus and school districts. Although most municipalities and government agencies are self-insured, it is still necessary to file a notice of claim before pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. It is important to note that there are strict time limits and procedural rules that apply to these claims.

Additionally, if the bus accident involved a private carrier, such as a charter bus operator, it may be necessary to negotiate a settlement with an insurance company. Armed with teams of claims adjusters and attorneys, private bus companies often attempt to settle claims for as little money as possible. Finally, in states that have “No-Fault” insurance laws, these claims can be even more complicated. In New York, for example, a passenger who is injured in a bus accident and owns an automobile may be required to file a claim with his or her own insurance company.

Because most buses do not provide passengers with safety belts or other restraints, an accident can cause devastating injuries. These cases are challenging and often hinge on conducting a thorough investigation to ascertain the defendant’s liability. In the end, as successful claims requires the skills of an experienced Calabasas bus accident attorney.

What Should I Do After a Bus Accident?

Your bus accident claim will involve a unique set of circumstances that make it specific to you. The basics when it comes to obtaining just compensation, however, remain the same. The at-fault parties in bus accident claims are often governmental entities, which makes the claims that much more legally challenging.  As a result, each step on the path forward is critical.

Concentrate on Your Safety and Recovery

Before you put any effort into your bus accident claim, you need to concentrate on your safety and recovery. This includes doing all the following that apply:

• Accepting emergency medical care at the scene of the accident and emergency transportation to a medical facility
• Following up by making an appointment with your medical provider
• Taking your medical team’s advice and instructions seriously

By seeking the medical attention you need, you not only preserve your health, but in the process, you also let the involved insurance company know that you were seriously injured and that they should take the matter seriously.

Retain Skilled Legal Counsel

Bus accident claims involve a wide range of legal complexities. This makes retaining the skilled legal guidance of a trusted Calabasas bus accident attorney early on the best course of action. Our team will skillfully guide you through the challenges ahead in pursuit of a settlement or court award that honors your legal rights and supports your most complete recovery.

Skilled counsel could:

• Connect all the dots required to demonstrate that the at-fault party’s negligence was the direct cause of the bus accident that caused you to be injured
• Clearly demonstrate your complete losses, including your current and ongoing medical expenses, lost wages, and physical and emotional pain and suffering
• Gather and knowledgeably compile the evidence necessary to back up your claim
• Deftly negotiate a fair settlement with the involved insurance company, and be fully prepared to take your case to court if they refuse to negotiate in good faith

The sooner you have a seasoned bus accident attorney backing you up, the better protected your rights and your rightful compensation will be.

Recognize the Insurance Company’s Position

The insurance company that is handling your bus accident claim is responsible for taking the matter seriously and for compensating you fairly within all applicable legal parameters. They are also, however, focused on their own profits and improving their margins.

It is in your best interest to allow your experienced bus accident lawyer to make a statement on your behalf to avoid inadvertently saying anything that may harm your claim. Taking a break from social media while your case is pending is advisable for the same reason.

Consult with an Experienced Calabasas Bus Accident Attorney

A dedicated Calabasas bus accident lawyer at Swift Justice is committed to fiercely advocating for a claim settlement or court award that accurately reflects your full range of losses. Obtaining the compensation you deserve is important to your recovery, so please do not hesitate to reach out for more information by contacting us online or giving us a call today.