Buses are large, heavy vehicles that tower over passenger vehicles. If you have been involved in a bus accident, odds are you have suffered major damages and serious injuries.
Bus accidents can be life-altering. You might be able to pursue a personal injury claim after a bus accident, so you can recoup compensation for the damages that you suffered in the crash.
You will need to show that there was negligence on the bus driver’s behalf, but after all four elements of negligence have been shown, you can have a successful personal injury claim. A personal injury attorney can help you after a bus accident.
What to do at the Scene of a Bus Accident
You need to do what you can to preserve evidence and to protect your rights at the accident scene.
Here are a few tips regarding what to do at the scene of a bus accident.
- If anyone has serious injuries, call an ambulance.
- Always call the police. They will need to send out an officer to investigate at the accident scene and to complete an accident report.
- Get statements from witnesses, along with their names and contact details.
- Use your smartphone to get photos of the accident scene and of the damage if you are physically able to do so.
- Exchange insurance information with the bus driver.
What to do After Leaving the Bus Accident Scene
You will need to be proactive to keep evidence and documentation to support your personal injury claim after leaving the scene of the bus accident.
Here are a few tips regarding what you should do.
- Establish medical care right away. Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Failure to do this can damage your personal injury claim.
- Call your auto insurance company. You will need to notify them of the crash and of the damages. They will need a copy of the accident report.
- Get a written repair estimate for fixing the damage to your vehicle.
- Keep copies of medical bills, medical records, receipts for prescriptions, receipts for medical devices or medical equipment, and so forth.
- Maintain documentation that shows missed work and lost wages.
- Take notes regarding how your injuries affect your daily living and your ability to participate in activities and hobbies.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been involved in a bus accident, you will need to consult with a personal injury attorney about pursuing an accident injury claim for your damages.
Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have no out-of-pocket expenses. Your lawyer will not be paid until you get a judgment or settlement for your personal injury claim.
You want a lawyer who is licensed to practice in your state, so he or she is familiar with the local laws and can represent you in court if necessary.
To get your claim on track, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page, so an attorney can review the details of your case.
