How a Bakersfield Bus Accident Attorney Can Help
Bus accident claims are often more complicated than ordinary car accident claims. A bus accident lawyer can assist with your case by:- Investigating the crash: An attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, review accident reports, and determine how the collision occurred.
- Calculating damages: A lawyer can assess both your current and future losses to ensure that all of your damages are included in your claim.
- Handling insurance companies: An attorney can communicate with insurers on your behalf and pursue a settlement that reflects the true value of your claim.
- Representing you in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can present your case before a judge or jury.
What Types of Compensation Are Available?
As a bus accident victim, you may be entitled to recover compensation for a variety of losses, such as:- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Rehabilitation costs
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
- Punitive damages (in rare cases)
How Long Do You Have to File a Bus Accident Claim in California?
Under CCP § 335.1, you generally have two years from the date of a bus crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you don’t file before the personal injury statute of limitations expires, you will likely forfeit the right to recover compensation. If your claim involves a government-operated bus, it may be subject to much shorter notice requirements and filing deadlines. A Bakersfield personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case and identify the applicable deadline.Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bus Accident?
Several parties may share responsibility for a bus crash, depending on how it happens. Potentially liable parties include:- The bus driver: A bus driver may be liable if negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or impaired driving, contributed to the accident.
- The bus company: Transportation companies may be responsible for negligent hiring, inadequate training, poor supervision, or failure to maintain their vehicles properly.
- Government agencies: If the bus is operated by a public transit authority, a city, county, or other government entity may bear responsibility for the accident.
- Maintenance contractors: Third-party maintenance providers may be liable if faulty repairs or neglected maintenance contributed to the crash.
- Vehicle manufacturers: Manufacturers can be held responsible if defective vehicle components cause or contribute to an accident.
- Other drivers: In some cases, another motorist may be partially or entirely responsible for causing the collision.
What Types of Evidence Do You Need?
The success of your bus accident claim will depend on the quality of the evidence you gather. Important types of evidence may include:- Police reports
- Photographs of the accident scene
- Video footage from traffic cameras
- Bus surveillance footage
- Witness statements
- Driver logs
- Electronic data recorder information
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Cell phone records
- Medical records
- Expert testimony
- Employment records documenting lost wages
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Bakersfield
Bus accidents can occur for many reasons. Some of the most common causes include:- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driver fatigue
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
- Improper lane changes
- Following too closely
- Driving under the influence
- Inadequate driver training
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Defective vehicle parts
- Dangerous road conditions
- Inclement weather
Common Injuries in Bus Accidents
Bus accident injuries can range from relatively minor to life-altering. Victims may suffer:- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Facial injuries
- Crush injuries
- Amputations
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
What to Do After a Bus Accident
The actions you take following a bus accident can impact both your health and your injury claim. It’s important to:- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Take photographs of the accident scene (if possible).
- Gather contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault at the scene.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations.
- Save all documentation of medical expenses and missed work.
- Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance adjusters.
- Consult a bus accident lawyer in Bakersfield to learn about your legal options.
