Bus Accident Lawyers
When Should I Talk to a Bus Accident Lawyer?
Bus accidents result in thousands of injuries every year in the U.S. Hundreds of people die in these accidents.[1] Too often, they result from the negligence of a driver, bus company, or manufacturer.
Getting hurt from someone else’s negligence is a big deal. You have every right to exhaust any legal options available to get justice and to recover damages. On the other hand, the idea of filing a lawsuit or claim can be intimidating and confusing. When in doubt about an accident, talk to a lawyer, especially in these situations:
- You suffered injuries in a bus accident.
- You have medical expenses because of those injuries.
- You have lost income because you couldn’t return to work after the accident.
- You’re worried you may never be able to work at all or in the same position.
- A representative from a bus company or insurance adjuster has contacted you about a settlement.
- Someone is claiming you played a role in causing the accident.
- A close family member died in a bus accident.
What Will a Bus Accident Lawyer Do for Me?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a bus accident, contact a lawyer right away. A law firm or attorney with experience in these cases can do several things to help you during this difficult time:
- Offer special expertise.
Many laws apply in bus accident cases, including federal, state, and local laws. Determining who is at fault, which laws apply, and how to prove negligence is tricky. A lawyer experienced in bus accident cases has the expertise a general personal injury lawyer does not and can answer all these questions. - Work with the insurance company.
These types of lawsuits usually involve the insurance company of the negligent party. They have big legal teams and do not want to pay damages. A lawyer knows how to work with them to get you what you deserve. - Maximize damages.
Accident injuries can be costly. You may not have thought of all the ways the incident impacts your finances, but a lawyer understands all the repercussions. They will find all your expenses and maximize damages. - Provide experts.
A bus accident case requires experts in medicine, transportation, and even mechanics. A law firm specializing in these cases has experts on staff or in their network to help investigate and prove your case. - Advocate for you.
Most importantly, a lawyer will be your advocate. They will be your voice in settlement negotiations and a trial if it becomes necessary. A lawyer provides peace of mind that someone is in your corner.
Where Can I Find a Bus Accident Lawyer?
If you know anyone who has been in a vehicle or bus accident and had to take legal action, find out which lawyer they hired. Without a personal reference, turn to other sources to find a firm. Local advocacy groups for accident victims, your state bar association, and transportation organizations may be able to provide a referral.
How Do I Choose the Right Lawyer?
If you cannot get a referral to a lawyer, start your search with personal injury firms. These are lawyers experienced in advocating for victims, negotiating settlements, and litigating in court. Narrow your list down to those with actual experience in bus accident cases. Interview more than one lawyer or firm and ask important questions:
- How many bus accident cases have you handled?
- What were the outcomes?
- Have you had to litigate a bus accident case?
- What do you think I can expect for damages?
- Who will you be suing, and why?
- How will you prove negligence?
- What resources do you have to put toward my case?
- How long do you think it will take?
- Will you be the one handling my case?
If you find more than one firm that meets your criteria, go with your gut. You have to feel comfortable with the lawyer taking your case. Choose whoever seems to have your best interests in mind and gives you confidence in what they can do for you.
Working with Your Bus Accident Lawyer
Having an expert on your side is a big relief after an accident, but it doesn’t mean that you play no role in what comes next. Your lawyer will need your input and cooperation to win your case and recover damages. Provide them with as much information as possible, including:
- A police report from the accident
- Medical bills and reports, including details about your injuries and photos
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Your recollections of the accident with as much detail as possible
- Witness contact information
- Information about the bus driver and the bus number
- Your missed time at work and income
When working with a lawyer, provide as much information as you can, and always be honest. They can only help you if they know the details and the truth. Avoid stretching the truth or leaving anything out just because you think it doesn’t make you look favorable. Remember that you have client-attorney privilege. They can only share or use information with your permission.
If you have been in a bus accident and suffered injuries as a result, talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney with experience in these cases can be a welcome ally and a big relief as you choose what to do next.