Personal Injury Law Firm in Seattle Washington. Free case evaluation 206-335-3880
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 a lot of 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 needless traffic accidents. We have however helped these clients find justice and recover compensation for the damage done to them. In this article, you will learn all about the causes of bus accidents and your rights in the event of a bus accident. You will also learn how to exercise these rights.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Our bus accident lawyers would help maximize your compensation by capturing all available damages that apply to your specific bus accident. Some of the compensation may include the following:
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.
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.
