Like any driver, bus operators are not exempt from the consequences of negligent or reckless driving. Sometimes, bus drivers act carelessly, increasing the odds of a collision with another vehicle. Likewise, an impatient driver can cause an accident by cutting a bus off in traffic. In other cases, defective or outdated automobile parts cause a bus accident.
A bus crash can impact your life when you least expect it, regardless of how it happened; when you or a loved one is injured in a public transportation wreck, contact a Southlake bus accident lawyer for help.
Our skilled personal injury lawyers could advise you on filing deadlines, advocate for you in court, and negotiate with insurance companies and government officials on your behalf.
Why Do Bus Collisions Occur?
Buses are a daily shared transportation for school children or professionals. Since buses are a standard transportation method, crashes are common; however, bus accidents happen more frequently in Texas than in any other state. For example, in 2020, Texas closely followed New York and California in bus accident casualties, hovering just around 2,000. Often, wrecks involving buses occur when drivers are:
- Tired
- Intoxicated
- Exceeding the speed limit
- Driving dangerously close to a bus despite warning signs
- A driver is not paying attention to the road, and
- A driver switches lanes without properly checking the rearview mirrors
With bus crashes being relatively common in Texas, knowing how they typically happen is crucial.
Common Injuries Following a Bus Wreck
A bus accident can lead to severe and, in some cases, life-changing injuries, including brain damage, neck and spinal cord injuries, cuts from broken glass, and broken bones. An experienced attorney in Southlake is familiar with these cases and could evaluate the circumstances of a public transportation wreck to determine who is at fault.
For a free legal consultation, call (817) 775-5364
Who is Responsible for a Public Bus Accident?
Determining liability for a public transportation collision is often more complicated than determining liability for a car crash, in part because buses are usually owned by a private company or the government.
Privately owned bus companies are known to protect their employees by blaming an injured driver for a wreck. On the other hand, liability for wrecks involving government-owned buses is complicated because many parties manage, fund, and operate the vehicles. Whether a privately or government-owned bus, several parties could be named as defendants in a crash lawsuit.
Collecting Damages
A skilled lawyer in Southlake knows how to navigate the complexities of bus accident cases to help victims and their families recover monetary damages from the responsible individuals. Since many individuals may be liable in a bus accident case, it can be difficult for the injured person to know how to effectively collect potential damages awarded in a bus accident case; a legal representative could thoroughly explain the damage award process and maximize the plaintiff’s recoverable compensation.
Southlake Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
What is the Statute of Limitations for Bus Accident Cases in Southlake?
In Texas, a personal injury lawsuit must be filed against individuals allegedly responsible within two years from the accident date; however, the injured person may be unable to sue the government if they do not follow the six-month notice requirements for bringing a tort claim against a government entity. A local attorney could ensure a plaintiff hurt in a bus wreck files their claim within the appropriate deadline.
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Call a Bus Accident Attorney in Southlake to Learn More About Filing a Claim
When you are hurt in a bus crash, you are likely experiencing serious physical or emotional pain. Fortunately, you may have legal recourse to obtain compensation for the harm you endured. Call a Southlake bus accident lawyer today for help.
Call (817) 775-5364 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form