Bus accidents are not as common as typical motor vehicle accidents. But when an accident with a bus comes to mind, we immediately think of serious injury. On average, there are more than 200 fatal crashes that involve buses every year. Many bus crashes involve the public transit system.
The laws in California require bus drivers to exercise a duty of the utmost care and safe passage for their passengers. This includes following all traffic laws and driving safely for the environment. If a carrier is negligent in keeping their passengers safe, they may be liable for any injuries and damages to their passengers.
Can I Sue a Public Agency for a Bus Accident Injury?
There is an important difference between a typical car accident and a bus accident. When a public authority operates the bus, there are strict timelines to follow. These extra steps don’t apply when suing a private company or citizen.
California law requires notice to the agency within 6 months of the date of the accident. If you don’t put them on notice, then you can’t sue for damages and you waive your right to the claim no matter how strong it is.
What Damages are Available for a Bus Accident Injury?
Damages in a bus accident injury are the same as other personal injury cases or accident claims. But because of the sheer size of buses, these injuries may be much more serious. Common injuries from bus accidents are broken bones, torn ligaments, spinal damage, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
The following damages are common in bus injury cases but depend on each individual case. These may include:
- Past and Future Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Future Earning Loss
- Mental and Physical Pain and Suffering
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Contacting Bus Accident Attorney Hanecak Law Inc.
Our firm isn’t focused on churning our clients in and out. We pride ourselves on a personal touch. We treat every client like family because we know accident injuries are life-changing.
No matter the seriousness of your injuries, you want to know that you have someone on your side. Call us today at (858) 206-4326 and we can begin your free strategy session.
