With bus accidents, the process isn’t as simple as a standard auto accident. The buses aren’t owned by one individual, but instead, a public authority is responsible for the vehicles and the drivers. A bus accident could involve a public transport service or school buses used to take children to school. After an accident, all injured parties need to speak to an attorney about what to do next and avoid common mistakes.
Who Manages the Buses?
The public official or authority that manages the buses is responsible for maintaining the buses and keeping the vehicles safe for all passengers. The same individual or entity is required to screen drivers and complete drug and alcohol testing to prevent accidents. Once the person is identified, an attorney can determine who the liable party is in a bus accident case. Victims of these bus accidents can get help from BoohoffLaw.com right now.
Was the Accident Reported?
All vehicle accidents that cause at least $1,000 in property damage or any injuries must be reported to the highway patrol. When a public bus or transport unit wrecks, the bus authority must also be contacted to alert the public official of the accident.
Law enforcement officers investigate the accident and will test the bus driver for signs of intoxication or use of controlled substances. An accident report is filed and is available to all parties involved in the accident.
Did You Seek Medical Treatment?
All injured parties in the bus accident should get medical attention even if injuries appear minor. If any party needs to file a legal claim against the bus authority, medical records are a requirement to show the injuries and the impact of the injuries on the person. Compensation is provided according to how severe the injuries were and all financial losses incurred by these individuals.
Do Not Talk to Anyone Representing the Bus Authority
A trick that bus authorities use to avoid a higher than average financial loss is to go to the hospital and attempt to talk to victims in the accident. The strategy allows the company to get the individuals to agree to a settlement offer and sign papers stating that the victims won’t file a lawsuit. Injured parties should contact an attorney before communicating with anyone representing the bus authority and allow the attorney to manage all discussions of the case.
File a Claim Before the Statute Runs Out
There is a statute of limitations that starts on the day of the accident. For most states, this is two to three years. However, if the lawsuit is filed against a public official, the claimant has one year only. If the person doesn’t file quickly, they could lose the opportunity to collect any compensation from the bus authority for their injuries or financial losses. An attorney can provide advice about the case and how soon the case should be filed with the court.
Bus accidents happen for a variety of reasons and DUI is just one of these causes. After anyone sustains injuries in the accident, medical assistance to determine how horrible the injuries are. Some people may lose their lives in these accidents. By discussing the case with an attorney, all injured parties will know where to get started and what not to do going forward.
