Bus Accidents Lawyers in San Antonio Lending a Helping Hand After an Accident
Public transportation is an efficient way to commute, but it comes with the risk of being in an accident. Large vehicles like buses are particularly dangerous because of their size and weight.
Whether you were a passenger on the bus or hit by a bus while driving, you may be injured and unsure what to do.
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is important to seek medical attention as soon after a bus accident as possible. Many problems, such as whiplash, may not show symptoms for days or weeks after the incident. Your doctor will be able to evaluate and treat your condition correctly. Your safety should always be the number one priority.
After seeing a doctor, you should contact an experienced bus accident lawyer. At Packard Law Firm, we offer free initial consultations to assess your case and determine how we can best help you. We will look into the accident to figure out who is at fault and gather evidence that may help you win your claim. We’ll also work with the insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you get all of the compensation you are owed.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced San Antonio bus accident attorneys. Our team will review your case and help you decide how to proceed. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve so that you can focus on healing. Call us at (210) 899-6142.
Why Do Bus Accidents Happen?
There are many reasons why bus accidents happen. It is important to investigate the circumstances of your accident so that the right person can be held responsible. Some frequent reasons why they happen are:
Poor Maintenance
Buses, like all vehicles, require regular maintenance to function properly. There have been cases where bus companies have neglected to maintain their buses which has led to accidents. If a bus company is found to have neglected to maintain its buses, it may be held liable for any accidents that occur because of it.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a problem with all types of drivers, but it can be especially dangerous for those operating large vehicles like buses. A bus driver may be distracted by passengers, other vehicles on the road, or something inside the bus. When a driver takes their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, they put themselves and others at risk of being in an accident.
Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is another common cause of bus accidents. Bus drivers often have to work long hours and may not get enough rest. This can lead to them falling asleep at the wheel or make them too tired to drive safely. If a driver falls asleep at the wheel, they can be held liable for any resulting accidents.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Dangerous road conditions are often beyond a driver’s control but can still lead to accidents. For example, if a bus hits a pothole, it could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and lead to an accident. In these cases, the entity responsible for maintaining the road may be held liable.
Poor Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions can also lead to bus accidents. If a driver is not experienced in driving in certain weather conditions or if a bus is not equipped to handle them, it could result in an accident.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is any type of driving that disregards the safety of others. It can include speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or running red lights. Reckless driving is dangerous and can lead to serious accidents.
Negligence is often a factor in bus accidents. If you have been injured in a bus accident, contact Packard Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced San Antonio bus accident lawyers. We will review your case and help you determine how to proceed.
What Injuries Are Common in Bus Accidents?
Due to their size and weight, buses can cause serious damage when they are involved in an accident. Some common injuries that occur in bus accidents are:
Broken Bones
Broken bones are some of the most common injuries in bus accidents. They can range from simple fractures that heal with time to more serious breaks that require surgery and long-term care.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur when an object hits a person’s head or they experience a sudden jolt or blow to the head. TBIs can range from mild concussions to more serious injuries that result in long-term effects or even death.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries often result from a high force that damages the spine. They can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and other long-term effects. A person’s life may be changed forever if they suffer a serious spinal cord injury in an accident.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly and forcefully thrown forward or backward. It can cause pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion in the neck. Neck injuries can be extremely painful and may require long-term treatment.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries occur when an object pierces or breaks through the body’s internal organs. They can be very serious and even life-threatening. Often, surgery is needed to repair the damage caused by an internal injury.
Injuries that can occur in bus accidents are quite serious and can have long-term effects on the victim. If you have been injured in a bus accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away and then consult with a personal injury lawyer. The attorneys at Packard Law Firm are experienced in handling these cases; we care about bus accident victims and can get you fair compensation.
What Damages Are Available in a Bus Accident Claim?
If you have been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Some of the most common types of damages that are available in these cases are:
Medical Expenses
You may be able to recover compensation for all of the medical expenses you have incurred as a result of your injuries. This can include ambulance fees, hospital bills, costs of surgeries and other treatments, and more.
Lost Wages
If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you may be able to recover lost wages in your claim. This can include wages you would have earned if you had not been injured, as well as any future lost earnings if your injuries have caused a long-term disability.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages are intended to compensate a victim for the physical and emotional pain and suffering that they have endured as a result of their injuries. These damages can be significant in cases where the victim has suffered serious or life-changing injuries.
Wrongful Death
If a person is killed in a bus accident, their family may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. This type of claim can provide compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and more.
The type and amount of damages available in a bus accident claim will depend on the facts of the case. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to evaluate your case and advise you on the best way to proceed.
What Are the Benefits of Working With a Bus Accident Attorney?
There are many benefits to working with an experienced bus accident attorney. Some of the most important advantages of having legal representation include the following:
Knowledge and Experience
A bus accident lawyer will have the knowledge and experience necessary to handle your case effectively. They will know how to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong compensation claim.
Compassionate Legal Help
Your lawyer will be there to provide you with compassionate legal help and support throughout the process. They will answer your questions, keep you updated on the status of your case, and help you understand your options. Having an advocate by your side can make a difficult process much easier.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are often difficult to deal with after an accident. They may try to lowball you on a settlement offer or deny your claim altogether. An attorney will fight for your rights and make sure you get the full amount of compensation you are entitled to.
Taking Your Case to Court
If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may need to go to court. An attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in a bus accident, get in touch with an experienced legal professional as soon as possible. They will defend your rights and assist you in obtaining the compensation you require to recover from your injuries.
The Packard Law Firm has represented many victims of bus accidents and knows what it takes to win these cases. If you have been injured, we are here to help. Contact us today at (210) 899-6142 for a free initial consultation. We do not charge any fees unless we win your case.