Buses may play an essential role in transportation across the country, as public transit, or for special events. When a bus driver fails to uphold safety standards, it can lead to serious harm for passengers and others on the road.
A Harrisonburg bus accident lawyer can help with pursuing financial recovery if you have been the victim of one of these bus accidents.
At Martin Wren, P.C., we bring seasoned experience and proven dedication to thousands of clients like you. We work with diligence to support you and pursue the fullest possible recovery. An experienced Harrisonburg personal injury lawyer understands the complexities of bus wreck cases and will advocate fiercely on your behalf.
Reasons You Need a Harrisonburg Bus Accident Attorney
Having an experienced lawyer can make a big difference in your ability to get compensation. Cases involving bus accidents bring extra layers that other kinds of accidents may not.
Teaming up with an experienced bus accident lawyer in Harrisonburg means you have guidance in several areas of the legal process that would otherwise fall on your shoulders to carry alone:
- Liability may involve multiple parties, such as the driver, a private company, a government entity, maintenance workers, a transit company, a coach operator, a tour service, or manufacturers, so your lawyer will conduct a full investigation and pursue each responsible party accordingly.
- We will obtain vital evidence that might otherwise be difficult to get, such as driver logs, maintenance records, witness testimonies, or camera footage.
- The defense may try to argue that you are at fault, using contributory negligence laws in Virginia, which we will work to guard you from, so you still get your much-needed compensation.
- We are by your side the entire way, available to answer your questions and act as your personal legal guide.
We will make sure that all of this happens within a reasonable timeframe to fit your recovery needs and satisfy legal requirements.
Taking on everything by yourself is possible, but when you have injuries and other damages to recover from, getting a good bus accident attorney can allow you peace of mind during a tumultuous time.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call (434) 817-3100
Statute of Limitations for Virginia Bus Injury Cases
Time constraints exist in Virginia that govern how long you have to file a claim. Generally, according to Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, you have two years from the date of your bus accident to file legal action. Sometimes, this limit is not as straightforward if specific circumstances apply to your case.
If the bus involved in the accident was part of a government entity, Code of Virginia § 8.01-195.7 moves the deadline to just one year after the accident. As with either deadline, contacting us as soon as possible will give you the best chance at staying on time and having a fair shot at compensation.
Talk with your lawyer about whether any of the tolling provisions, or extensions, in Code of Virginia § 8.01-229 apply to your case. These only come up in very specific circumstances, but they could mean the difference between being able to file and missing out on any chance at financial recovery forever.
Proving Fault in a Bus Accident Claim
Establishing that negligence caused your injuries is a foundational element of any bus accident claim. We have to demonstrate that there was a breach of duty resulting in real harm.
That includes showing that the bus operator had an obligation to operate safely, then failed in that duty, leading to the accident.
We will gather all available evidence and work to get thorough documentation. We will collect witness statements, scene photos, maintenance logs, and surveillance or dash camera footage. This evidence allows us to construct a strong case for their liability.
In Virginia, the contributory negligence law may eliminate compensation even if you share minimal fault. It is imperative to speak to a lawyer soon so that your recovery is not barred by shared fault rules under Virginia law.
It is important to understand that bus companies that operate for profit are called “common carriers” under Virginia law. Virginia imposes many unique duties on common carriers as set forth in Virginia Code, Article 6.
Common carriers have what is called a special relationship with their customers. This means they owe a higher duty of care to protect those passengers.
There is a higher duty of care for bus companies and common carriers because passengers entrust their safety to the bus company. This can mean the bus company is liable even for the slightest negligence.
Harrisonburg Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me (434) 817-3100
Common Causes of Harrisburg Bus Collisions
Bus collisions frequently result from human error. Bus operators have a significant duty to maintain vigilance and adhere to regulations as they maneuver these large vehicles. A failure in focus or judgment can put passengers and others on the road in danger.
Many factors may contribute to these accidents. These include driver fatigue, poor weather and road conditions, distracted driving, limited visibility, hours of service violations, congested traffic, speed, mechanical issues, defective parts, insufficient training, unqualified drivers, and intoxication. Your bus accident attorney in Harrisonburg will explore all these possibilities.
Even when the bus driver bears primary responsibility, other entities may share blame. A bus company may fail to adequately train its drivers or disregard service hour regulations. Mechanics or manufacturers may be accountable if maintenance is neglected or parts of the bus unexpectedly fail. Any type of fault needs strong proof to hold weight in court, so a proper investigation is important.
Bus Accident Injuries
Because buses require greater stopping distances and have limited maneuverability, they often cause significant harm in wrecks. People in smaller vehicles may suffer more severe injuries due to the bus’s size advantage. Bus passengers are also vulnerable under many circumstances, especially since many buses do not have seat belts.
Typically, injuries can include traumatic brain injuries, whiplash and neck injuries, spinal cord damage, and many other permanent disabilities. Make sure to share everything that happened to you with your bus accident lawyer in Harrisonburg so everything is accounted for.
It is important to seek medical care even when injuries appear minor. Some conditions manifest over time and require early identification and treatment to avoid lingering issues.
You should keep all medical documentation, including test results, records, and bills, as these can be a strong component in arguing your case for compensation.
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Do Not Wait to Call an Attorney
In the aftermath of a Harrisburg bus accident, you deserve a Harrisonburg bus accident attorney who combines diligence, compassion, and legal experience.
It is important to know that buses are subject to a variety of additional laws that do not apply to other drivers on the road. Buses that transport passengers are typically governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
Bus drivers for profit should have operating authority per chapter 7.2 of the Motor Carrier Safety Planner. This is just one example of the many federal rules that govern bus drivers and their operations.
Acting quickly preserves evidence, keeps things on schedule, and positions you for the greatest chance at fair financial recovery. Contact Martin Wren, P.C., today to begin your journey toward justice and recovery.
Call (434) 817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
