Bus Accident

What to Do When Someone Was Injured in a Bus Accident

Bus driving over a bridge in a busy city.

If you've been involved in a public transportation accident, you know how complex these cases can be. 

With evidence, witnesses, and insurance companies to deal with, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. So it is crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible. Experienced bus accident lawyers will work tirelessly to make sure you are compensated fairly and get the justice you deserve. They understand your legal rights and get the help you need during this challenging time.

In a bus accident, there can be many factors that contribute to the accident. Each case is different, and the accident's severity can range from a minor fender-bender to a major collision. Many people can be injured in a bus accident, and the injuries can range from minor to severe.

Why Do Bus Accidents Occur

There are many reasons why bus accidents occur. Some of the most common causes include:

Driver Error

One of the most common causes of bus accidents is driver error. This can include speeding, driving recklessly, or even falling asleep at the wheel. In some cases, drivers may be influenced by drugs or alcohol.

Stress and Fatigue

Another common cause of bus accidents is stress and fatigue. This is especially common among commercial drivers under pressure to meet tight schedules and work long hours without proper rest.

Poor Maintenance

If a bus is not properly maintained, it can increase the risk of an accident. Things like worn tires, defective brakes, or other mechanical problems can make it more difficult for a driver to control the vehicle. This can lead to them losing control and crashing.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can also impact a bus's safety. For example, the roads may be slick and more challenging to drive on if it is raining or snowing. Additionally, if a bus is driving in foggy conditions, it may be more difficult for the driver to see what is ahead, potentially leading to a serious accident.

Road Conditions

The road conditions a bus is driving on can also impact its safety. If the road is in poor condition, it may be more difficult for the driver to control the bus. Additionally, if there are potholes or other obstacles on the road, this could also cause an accident.

What Type of Injuries Do Bus Accident Victims Sustain

Bus accidents can cause many injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Some common injuries that bus accident victims sustain include:

Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations

Cuts, bruises, and lacerations are some of bus accident victims' most common injuries. These injuries can be minor or severe, depending on the force of the impact. Some injuries can be minor and require no medical treatment, or they can be more serious and require stitches or other medical attention. 

Fractured or Broken Bones

Broken bones are another common injury caused by a bus accident. Bones can break when they are hit with great force, such as in a high-speed collision. These injuries can range from simple fractures to more serious breaks requiring repair surgery. In some cases, broken bones can lead to other complications such as joint or nerve damage. 

Internal Bleeding

Internal bleeding is another severe injury that bus accidents can cause. This type of injury occurs when blood vessels are ruptured, and blood begins to leak into the surrounding tissue. Internal bleeding can lead to organ damage, shock, and even death if it is not treated quickly.

Head and Neck Injuries

Head and neck injuries are some of the most severe injuries resulting from a bus accident. These damages can occur when passengers are thrown around inside the bus during a collision or when they are ejected from the bus. Head and neck injuries can range from concussions and whiplash to more severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or spinal cord damage. They often require extensive medical treatment and can have long-term effects on a person’s health and quality of life. 

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Back and spinal cord injuries are also common in bus accidents. These injuries can be caused by the force of the impact or by being thrown around inside the bus during a collision. Back and spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis or even death.

What Are the First Steps after a Bus Accident

If you are involved in a bus accident, there are a few things you should do:

1. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and get medical help if needed.

2. Call the police so they can investigate the accident and file a report. 

3. Exchange insurance information with the other driver or bus company. 

4. Take photos of the accident, damage to your vehicle, and any injuries you or your passengers have sustained. 

5. Keep track of any expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, car repairs, or lost wages from time missed at work.

How to Get Your Bus Accident Injury Claim

The value of your bus accident injury claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the number of medical bills you have incurred, and the amount of lost wages you have suffered.

What Do You Need to Prove When Filing a Bus Accident Injury Claim

To get compensated for your injuries, you must first file a claim and prove that the defendant's negligence was the direct cause of said injuries. To do so, you must show that:

1. The defendant had a duty to you.

2. The defendant breached that duty.

3. The defendant's breach of duty was the direct cause of your injuries.

4. You suffered damages as a result of your injuries.

When Is the Deadline for Filing a Bus Accident

The statute of limitations is the time frame in which a lawsuit can be filed. In the case of bus service, the time frame is six months. This means that if someone wants to file a lawsuit against a bus company, they must do so within six months of the incident.

Conclusion

After a bus accident, there are many things to consider, and it can be challenging to know where to turn. Bus accident cases can be complex, and it is vital to have experienced legal representation on your side. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a bus accident, getting legal help as soon as possible is essential. 

At Mendez & Sanchez Law, our bus accident lawyers in Los Angeles understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bus accident can take on victims and their families, so we are here to help you every step. Let us help you navigate the complex legal process and get the compensation you deserve. Don't try to navigate the legal system alone—Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced bus accident lawyers today!

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