Best Seattle Bus Accidents law firm

Buses appear to be the safest way to commute these days since they look big, convenient and careful. However, this can often be misleading, because they do get in accidents, and often too. This risk with buses is largely due to their size and weight. The average weight of a fully loaded school bus is about 42,000 pounds with an average passenger weight of about 3000 pounds.

We represented countless clients throughout the years that got injured on a bus. In many of these cases, our clients themselves or their loved ones were involved in a bus accident in Washington State. 

The Seattle personal injury bus lawyers at Oshan & Associates can help with investigation, gathering witnesses and establishing fault. We have extensive experience when it comes to bus accidents in King County and in Washington State in general.  

Major causes of Seattle bus accidents

Despite their risk factor, bus accidents do not just happen. They are caused by certain factors. The following are some of the major causes of bus accidents in the United States:

• Bus company negligence: Negligence is a breach of duty. The motor coach industry in the U.S serves as many individuals as the airline industry. However, despite the huge figures involved, the record keeping and bus inspection protocols adopted by these companies are obviously not as stringent as airlines. A defective bus part may not be discovered by the purchasing party until it has been in an accident. Poor maintenance also contributes to the risk factor in accidents. Old fashion buses may not have seat belts or brakes good enough to minimize impact in a bus crash.
• Blind spots: Blind spots are very common for buses because of their size. Certain sides of the bus would go unnoticed as even the mirrors provided may not cover such areas. This may cause accidents especially with cyclists and other smaller vehicles.
• Reckless driving: While there are many laws attempting to regulate bus driving, reckless driving still occurs. Reckless driving may also be in the form of over speeding or swerving across lanes indiscriminately.
• Failure to obey traffic rules: Traffic rules are there for the benefits of every road user including cyclists and pedestrians. Many accidents could have been averted had the driver obeyed traffic rules like speed limits or traffic lights. Running a traffic light may cause confusion and accidents.  
• Driving under the influence: Driving under the influence increases the risk factors in accidents. The driver’s awareness is impaired and his attentiveness cannot be guaranteed.
• Bus driver fatigue: Fatigue is reported as a top highway killer in the U.S. Drivers. Those with obstructive sleep apnea are reported to have over two times greater risk of having a highway accident than drivers without sleep apnea.

How many school bus accidents are there every year?

There can be a bit of confusion with exactly how many bus accidents happen per year. This is because there are many crashes that do not get reported. In fact, according to this report by Accident Data Center, many tour and city bus crashes go unreported. Speculations have been made as to why these crashes go unreported.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 300,000 buses are involved in accidents each year, and while buses are generally safer than passenger vehicles, the sheer size and weight of a bus can result in catastrophic injuries.

In fact, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported that around 80,000 people are injured annually in bus-related accidents. The nature of injuries sustained in bus accidents often varies depending on numerous factors, including the type of bus involved (school bus, city bus, or charter bus) and the circumstances at the time of the accident. 

Common Injuries Sustained in Bus Accidents

The nature and severity of injuries sustained in bus accidents can vary greatly, depending on factors such as the type of bus involved, the speed of the vehicles at the time of the collision, and the specific circumstances of the incident. Some of the most common to rare injuries include:

• Whiplash - According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), whiplash injuries are common in bus accidents, contributing to long-term pain and disability.
• Soft tissue injuries -  These injuries can affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments and can lead to significant discomfort and mobility issues
• Spinal cord injuries - An estimated 17,000 new spinal cord injuries occur each year in the U.S., and bus accidents are a significant contributor.
• Head injuries - Approximately 2.87 million emergency department visits are related to brain injuries annually, with many stemming from bus accidents. 
• Broken bones - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 800,000 individuals are hospitalized annually for hip fractures, many resulting from falls during bus accidents
• Internal bleeding or organ damage/ failure
• Death.

An average of 6 kids die as passengers on a school bus every year. Some say this could have been averted if seat belts were not only provided but made mandatory and its use monitored on buses. Seat belt laws have been enacted in 49 states of the United States since as far back as the sixties. These laws make the use of seatbelts in cars and light trucks mandatory. The use of seatbelts on these categories of automobiles have proved successful over time and calls have been made to extend the law to school buses.

In the US, New York state requires that seat belts be installed on school buses manufactured after July 1987 but does not mandate the passengers to wear them. The US federal laws define two types of seat belts for school buses: lap belts and three point belts. Lap belts are adjustable belts that are drawn across the passenger’s lap, similar to those on airplanes. Three point belts are the ones usually installed in vehicles. In the NHTSA rule published in 2008, Minimum seat belt height was increased and installation of lap or shoulder belt on school buses was made mandatory for small school buses. Performance criteria was also established for seat belts voluntarily installed on large buses.

Reporting a bad bus driver in Washington State

There are signs of bad or reckless driving. Some of them are driving above the speed limit, weaving between cars and lanes or ignoring traffic signals. Other signs include tailgating, road rage, street racing, driving between lanes etc. If you notice a bus driver doing any of these, you should immediately report the occurrence.

This report could be to the driver’s employer or to the police. However, you must be sure that you are reporting a serious traffic violation and you believe there is serious risk of an accident. You should take note of the bus model, license plate and any other information on the outside of the bus.

Some buses have phone numbers on their “How’s my driving” sticker that you can call in the event of reckless driving. Do not follow the bus, it may get you into needless trouble or road rage. You can call the police in your car and give them the information you have taken down as well as other information they may require.

Bus drivers are required by law to have a Commercial Driver’s License when operating a bus. 

Research show that the following factors increases the chance of getting into a Seattle bus crash: 

• Bus drivers lacking driving experience, particulary under the age of 25.
• Drivers over the age of 65.
• Female bus drivers.
• If the bus is within a speed limit of 65 miles per hour.
• If the bus is within a speed limit of under 20 miles per hour.
• At intersections.

Common types of busses that operate in Seattle, Washington:

• School Bus
• Seattle Metro Bus and other public transportation buses.
• Hotel and airport shuttles
• Tourist Bus such as Ride the Duck, Seattle Double Decker City Bus Tour etc.
• Long commute busses such as Greyhound bus etc.
• Any other vehicles operated by private entities which has been designed to carry many passengers.

Step-by-Step Guide What to Do If you find yourself involved in a bus accident in Seattle:

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the aftermath of the incident:

1. Ensure Safety: First, check for injuries and ensure your safety and the safety of others around you. If possible, move out of harm's way without risking further injury.

2. Call Emergency Services: Contact local authorities immediately. Report the accident and, if there are injuries, request an ambulance to the scene.

3. Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather the names and contact information of witnesses, as their accounts may be crucial for your case.

4. Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance information from the bus driver and other involved parties. This should include names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance companies, and policy numbers.

5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it is wise to see a healthcare professional. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away, and seeking prompt care can prevent complications.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company. Provide them with all necessary information.

7. Consult an Attorney: It is critical to seek legal counsel to understand your rights and the potential for a claim. An experienced attorney can assess your case and help you gather the necessary evidence and documentation.

Do I need an attorney if I was Injured on a bus in Washington State?

Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Statistics show that individuals who hire attorneys for personal injury claims often receive three times more compensation than those who try to navigate the system on their own.

An experienced lawyer can help you understand the nuances of liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. At Oshan & Associates, P.C., we are dedicated to providing compassionate and competent legal representation to those impacted by bus accidents. Our team is here to guide you through the claims process and ensure that you receive the assistance you need during this challenging time. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact us today for a consultation. 

Prerequisites to filing a lawsuit for a bus accident in King or Pierce County in Washington State

If injuries or damage occurred due to the bus accident and you wish to pursue a claim in Seattle, Tacoma or anywhere else in Washington State, you must file a notice of claim against the bus company or the responsible parties.

Here are the prerequisites for filing a lawsuit:

1. Gather Evidence: Compile all documentation related to the accident, including police reports, medical records, and photographs from the scene.

2. Complete a Claim Form: Depending on the jurisdiction, you’ll need to fill out a specific claim form. In Washington State, you typically have to notify the potential defendant of your intent to sue, particularly for governmental entities.

3. Notice of Claim: For public transit accidents (such as with a city bus), you often must submit a formal notice of claim to the transit authority certain amount of days before proceeding with a lawsuit. This notice should detail the circumstances of the accident and the damages incurred.

4. Consider the Statute of Limitations: In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. Make sure you file within this timeframe to preserve your right to pursue compensation.

5. Seek Professional Guidance: Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney in Seattle Washington that is knowledgeable with local laws can help you understand the intricacies of your case and what documentation is needed.

Are there remedies available to victims of a bus accident?

If you’ve been in an accident or you lost a loved one in a bus accident, you may take legal action for compensation. If you are desirous of doing so, it is advised that you do so in a timely manner. Personal injury claims have a statue of limitation. This means you may be barred from obtaining compensation if you delay.

What damages can I recover if I was injured in a Seattle bus accident?

Our bus accident lawyers would help maximize your compensation by capturing all available damages that apply to your specific bus accident. Some of the potential compensation may include the following:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Any  rehabilitation.
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Permanent injuries / disability / scarring / disfigurement
• Pain & suffering including but not limited to emotional distress, PTSD anxiety, and or depression.
• Loss of enjoyment of life. 

If death occurred in a bus accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit and potentially recover the following: 

• Loss of consortium
• Funeral expenses
• Any Medical bills prior to death.
• Loss of wages that would have been earned.
• Pain and suffering prior to death.
• The cost of household tasks used to perform.

A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within three years in Washington and should be filed by the estate of the decedent. In most cases family members such as spouses and children bring a wrongful death lawsuit. 

An attorney from Oshan & Associates, P.C. can help you understand your rights, gather the necessary evidence, and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Filing a Claim: The Legal Process in Washington State In Washington, bus accident victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, the legal process can be intricate, and it is essential to have an experienced attorney by your side. At Oshan & Associates, P.C., our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers has a proven track record of success in handling bus accident cases. We will guide you through the following steps:

1. Establishing Liability: We will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine the parties responsible for the incident, whether it was the bus driver, the bus company, or another party.

2. Filing a Claim: Depending on the circumstances, we will either file a claim with the responsible party's insurance provider or, if the bus was operated by a government entity, submit a formal notice of claim to the appropriate agency.

3. Negotiating a Settlement: Our attorneys will negotiate with the insurance company or the responsible party to secure a fair and just settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

4. Pursuing Litigation: If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and aggressively advocate for your rights before a judge and jury. 

Contact the best bus accident attorneys in Seattle

Being involved in a bus accident can be a life-altering experience, but understanding your rights and the steps involved in seeking justice is crucial. At Oshan & Associates, P.C., we are dedicated to providing compassionate and competent legal representation to those impacted by bus accidents. Our team is here to guide you through the claims process and ensure that you get the assistance you need during this challenging time. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact us today for a consultation. We will fight for your rights and help you navigate the path toward recovery.

If you have been involved in a Seattle bus accident, you stand the best chance of a favorable outcome with our experienced legal team. Our lawyers at Oshan and Associates are skilled at personal injury law and have extensive knowledge in bus injuries. Take advantage of our free no-obligation consultation to start a conversation with us today. Call us on 206-335-3880 to book your consultation.