Bus accidents, including those that involve public transportation and school buses, can be traumatic. These vehicles aren’t well-equipped for crashes, and passengers can suffer catastrophic injuries as a result. And getting hit by a bus as a pedestrian can cause even more severe injuries.
After a bus accident, you may be confused about what you should do next. These cases can be far more complex than standard car accident lawsuits. When you’re still recovering, you shouldn’t have to worry about dealing with insurance companies or going to court.
Instead, call a Charleston bus accident lawyer at Louthian Law Firm, P.A. We can handle the legal details of your case so you can rest and still get the personal injury compensation you deserve.
Determining Fault for a Charleston Bus Accident
The first step in any bus accident claim is determining the cause of the accident. Establishing fault is critical. While you might assume that the bus driver is the liable party, this may not always be the case. Still, bus drivers are some of the most common at-fault parties in these kinds of claims.
In cases of bus driver negligence, the following types of unsafe driving situations are common:
- Drunk driving
- Drugged driving
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Speeding
- Failure to stop
- Failure to use a turn signal
- Following too closely
- Road rage
Although driver negligence is one of the more common causes of bus accidents, other parties might have contributed to your injuries. Some of these individuals and entities could include the following:
- The bus company
- The owner of the bus
- Safety inspectors
- Bus maintenance technicians
- Bus manufacturers
- Auto part manufacturers
- Government transportation agencies
Only a deep dive into the cause of the accident will uncover the truth. Your bus accident lawyer in Charleston will be tasked with gathering the evidence to support your claim against the liable party or parties. We’ll be prepared to hold all at-fault parties to account for their negligence.
How Charleston Bus Accident Survivors Are Compensated
Charleston bus accident survivors can be compensated in a couple of ways. The first is by filing a claim with the insurance company. Under the applicable policy, the insurer may be obligated to cover certain losses, such as your medical expenses and property damage.
The other way to get compensation is through a civil claim. A bus accident lawsuit may be the best way to ensure that you are fully compensated for your suffering. This means seeking compensation for things like lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other financial and non-financial losses.
Speak with a Bus Accident Attorney in Charleston
The bus accident claim process may be intimidating, but it could be your best opportunity to secure the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life.
If you’re ready to bring the at-fault party to justice, contact an experienced Charleston bus accident lawyer at Louthian Law Firm, P.A. Call us at 803-592-6231 or complete the quick contact form at the bottom of this page to schedule your free consultation.
