Buses are an important aspect of transportation. Whether they are shuttling kids to and from school, used for public transportation in the city, or chartered for special events, these vehicles serve a variety of purposes. If a bus driver is negligent in the course of their duties, though, they can cause serious harm. A Richmond bus accident lawyer can help you navigate the claim process if you have been injured.
The team at MartinWren, P.C., has decades of combined experience and a proven track record of success in many commercial motor vehicle cases. When you have been hurt in a bus accident, we act swiftly and work tirelessly to make sure you have an advocate and recover maximum compensation. An experienced Richmond personal injury lawyer knows how to handle these nuanced cases and negotiate on your behalf.
Numerous Factors Can Contribute to Bus Accidents
Bus accidents are commonly the cause of human error. Bus drivers have a responsibility to use caution when they are operating these large vehicles, which means they must remain alert and follow regulations and the rules of the road. If a driver becomes negligent in their duties, they can put others at risk. Some common factors that contribute to bus accidents in Richmond include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue
- Poor weather and road conditions
- Narrow streets
- Limited visibility
- Congested traffic
- Blind spots
- Intoxication
- Mechanical issues
- Defective parts
- Insufficient training
Even though bus drivers are most commonly responsible for causing an accident, they may not be the only ones. Bus companies can contribute to accidents if they fail to train their drivers or enforce regulations related to hours of service. Bus mechanics and manufacturers can also cause accidents if they do not properly maintain or produce parts for the bus.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call (434) 817-3100
Potential Injuries Sustained in Bus Accidents
Because buses are such large vehicles, they need more time to come to a stop, they have numerous blind spots, and they cannot maneuver as quickly or as tightly as passenger vehicles. When they collide with other cars, they can cause serious injuries to motorists. Given their size and design, buses and bus passengers are less likely to suffer as much harm as those in small vehicles. Some common injuries that individuals may suffer include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Spinal injuries and nerve damage
- Chest and rib injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Broken bones and soft tissue damage
- Contusions and lacerations
- Paralysis, disability, and disfigurement
Be sure to receive medical care after a collision, even if your injuries seem minor. Many times, injuries are delayed and require prompt diagnostic measures. Also, be sure to keep your test results, medical records, and any bills you receive for evidence in your case. This documentation is also used to estimate how much your case is worth.
A Bus Accident Lawyer in Richmond Establishes the At-Fault Party’s Liability for the Collision
An essential part of your bus accident claim is demonstrating that you were injured because of the bus driver’s negligent actions. As such, there are four ways to prove fault in a personal injury case. First, hire a lawyer to handle your case for you; second, take photos to use as evidence. Next, you should gather witnesses to support your claim, and finally, your lawyer should demonstrate the other party’s liability.
Liability is established when your lawyer uses the evidence they have gathered to build your case and satisfy the standard of negligence requirement in your case. This process begins by showing that the bus driver had a duty to ensure safety. The driver engaged in actions that breached their duty to their passengers and motorists and caused the resulting accident. As such, they are liable for damages.
All parties involved in an accident are investigated to determine if and how they contributed to the collision. Because Virginia applies contributory negligence, circumstances of shared fault can result in no compensation according to settled Supreme Court of Virginia precedent. To ensure you are not barred from compensation, talk to your lawyer right away after an accident.
Richmond Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me (434) 817-3100
You Have the Right to Pursue Compensation and Recover Your Losses
At MartinWren, P.C., a common question we often hear from clients who are facing exorbitant expenses after an accident is what should I know about my personal injury case. First and foremost, you have the right to pursue compensation so you do not have to cover your losses yourself. You can claim damages for both your expenses and pain and suffering. Some common losses you can recover include:
- The cost of medical expenses, equipment, accommodations, medications, and therapies
- Repair and replacement costs for vehicle and personal belongings damage
- Lost wages or earning capacity
- End-of-life care, funeral, and burial expenses
- Emotional distress
- PTSD, insomnia, anxiety, and depression
- Decreased quality of life and enjoyment
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship or consortium
You are likely to receive a low settlement initially, so it is important to have your Richmond bus accident attorney review it and negotiate with the insurance company and at-fault party. They know how insurance companies operate and how to get them to pay you fairly. Building your case and negotiating your settlement can take time, so open communication with your lawyer is essential.
Statute of Limitations on Virginia Bus Accident Cases
If you want to hold negligent bus drivers accountable, personal action for injury to person or property generally is capped at two years.
However, according to Virginia Code Article 18.1, accident claims involving government-owned buses are subject to shorter statutes of limitations and mandatory notice provisions before that. This means that claims must be started and resolved before these times expire, or else risk being unable to recover damages for losses.
Reach Out to MartinWren, P.C. Today
MartinWren, P.C., aggressively advocates for you and protects your rights so you receive a fair settlement when you are at your most vulnerable.
We understand how important it is for you to be able to regain control of your life and move forward with peace of mind, which is why we work tirelessly on your behalf. Schedule a free consultation with a bus accident attorney in Richmond to discuss your options.
Call (434) 817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
