Thousands of people are transported by buses on a daily basis. With this great demand comes a high number of buses out on our highways. More buses increase the risks of being involved in a crash with one.
The average bus weighs about 40,000 pounds, which is 10 times the weight of a passenger car. These crashes cause debilitating injuries and serious damages because of the differences in vehicle sizes.
Determining Who is At Fault in A Commercial Bus Accident
If you suffered injuries because of a commercial bus accident, schedule a free initial case evaluation today with a bus accident injury lawyer. Your personal injury attorney should conduct an investigation into the crash.
This investigation should reveal if it was caused by negligence or other factors that might have been avoided. It will determine if the bus company or its driver were to blame for the crash.
The at fault party is determined to be liable for any damages that were suffered. In some states, you have to prove that the crash was completely the fault of the bus company to pursue damages. There are some states that allow comparative negligence, which lets you pursue damage if you are given some of the blame for the crash.
The damages awarded are adjusted according to the percentage of fault. Your attorney should know how to proceed with such claims and ensure you get a fair settlement for your losses.
Negligent Acts That Cause Bus Crashes
- Driving While Intoxicated - Operating a vehicle while consuming alcohol or taking illegal or prescription drugs.
- Driving Distracted - Driving while texting, talking on the phone, reading a paper map, or eating.
- Reckless Driving - Failing to follow traffic signals, speeding, or ignoring traffic laws.
- Mechanical Failure - Failing to properly maintain the bus or defective parts can cause crashes.
If the bus driver performed any of these acts of negligence while operating the bus right before the crash in which you were involved, you might be able to pursue a personal injury claim. Consult with a bus accident attorney before filing a claim.
Collisions Involving a Commercial Bus
If you suffered injuries in a car accident that involved a Badger Bus, or any other commercial bus line, you might have medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. If negligence was involved, you might be eligible for additional damages, which are called punitive damages.
To get the compensation you deserve to cover your damages, you need to have legal representation because dealing with insurance adjusters is challenging. To protect your rights, schedule your free initial case consultation with a personal injury lawyer today to learn how you may recover your damages after a bus crash.
*The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Badger Bus, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
