Buses are a popular form of transportation in cities. It is a great way for people to get where they need to go. There are thousands of buses on America’s roadways, and your chances of being in an accident with a bus are greater than one may think.
Because buses are much larger and heavier than the traditional passenger vehicle, an accident with a bus can lead to severe injuries and serious damages. If you have been in an accident with a city bus, and the accident was the bus driver’s fault, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the city to recoup compensation to cover your damages.
If it is a city bus, the city is likely liable for its employees and the damages caused by the negligence of city workers, including bus drivers. If you don’t pursue a claim, you could find yourself paying for the damages yourself.
Filing a Claim Against a City Bus
If you have been involved in an accident with a city bus, you may want to file a claim if you are not at fault. You will want to include all the damages that you suffered in your claim.
Your damages may include property damages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, mental anguish, and more. You will need to get a copy of the accident report, which will also support your claim and show what happened as well as the damages that you suffered.
When you pursue a claim, you will itemize your damages and then add them up for the total value of your settlement. You will then work to negotiate a fair settlement with the city and their insurer.
Since the city is a government entity, there could be very strict limits regarding how much you can recover. The claims process is also different, and you must adhere to the protocol that apply within your city and state.
The Claims Process When Filing Against a City Bus
You will need to research the process for filing a claim against the city after being involved in a city bus accident. There is a strict time limit, which is called a statute of limitations, for pursuing a claim.
When a government entity is involved, you usually must complete a claim form and notify them in writing of your intent to file a claim. This notice of intent is filed with a specific office, such as a city attorney or city administrator. The city will have details that explain the process and the requirements.
You will then need to wait the specified timeframe to see if you get a response from the city. If they don’t respond, or if they decline your request, you may then file a lawsuit while adhering to proper procedures. A personal injury lawyer will help you with the claims process.
How an Attorney Can Help
Pursuing a personal injury claim against a city following an accident caused by a city bus can be challenging. A personal injury lawyer will help you through the claims process. When you retain an accident injury lawyer, they will take the case on a contingency basis, which means that your lawyer will not be paid until you win your claim. Get your Free Case Evaluation today.
