While bus accidents aren’t as common as car accidents, they can often have a more devastating impact on the lives of the victims. The weight and size of the bus make it dangerous for other road users and the passengers inside the bus.
If you have been hurt by a bus accident in Washington State, where the accident was a result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you have the legal right to seek compensation. However, before you initiate any legal action, you need to understand how bus accident claims work, including your rights, the legal process, and how an experienced Injury attorney for bus accidents Washington can help you through the process.
At Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law, we have helped victims of bus accident cases in Washington State. When you’re ready to consult with one of our attorneys, call us to schedule your free consultation.
How to Know If You Have a Bus Accident Case
One of the first steps of the legal process is to determine if you have the legal grounds for a bus accident claim. Here are some key questions that can help you assess your case.
Key Questions to Determine a Valid Claim
- Were you injured? – Injuries requiring medical treatment or causing financial loss may justify a claim.
- Was another party at fault? – Negligence by the bus driver, bus company, or another motorist could be grounds for a case.
- Does the responsible party have insurance? – Legal assistance ensures access to compensation.
Why Choose Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law for Your Bus Accident Case?
Challenges of Bus Accident Claims
Bus accident claims can be particularly challenging due to several factors. Understanding these challenges can help you appreciate the importance of having experienced legal representation. The liability in bus accident cases can often be complex. Multiple parties can be liable for the accident, including the bus driver and the bus company. Buses are often operated by government entities, and their involvement can add to the challenge.
Another major challenge in bus accident claims is handling the insurance company tactics. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize claims or shift blame to avoid paying fair compensation. They may use various tactics to downplay the severity of injuries, dispute liability, or pressure victims into accepting low settlement offers.
If the case involves serious injuries, victims often find it challenging to focus on their recovery while also working through the legal process to recover compensation. Due to the large size and weight of buses, victims of bus accidents often suffer catastrophic injuries. These injuries can result in long-term or permanent disabilities, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Bus accidents can involve multiple jurisdictions, especially if they occur on routes that cross city or state lines. This can complicate the legal process as different jurisdictions may have varying laws, regulations, and procedural requirements.
In cases where multiple passengers are injured in a single bus accident, there may be considerations for class action or mass tort litigation. This can complicate the legal strategy and require coordination among numerous claimants.
What Sets Us Apart?
At Jacobs and Jacobs Personal Injury Law, we know how to overcome the challenges of bus accident cases. Our proven experience in handling bus accident cases in Washington State ensures that we have the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of these claims. We have a deep understanding of Washington bus safety regulations and personal injury law, allowing us to provide effective representation for our clients.
We also stand out for our ability to tailor our legal strategy to meet the needs of each case. Our attorneys understand that each case is unique and deserves the effort and time to create a personalized strategy.
Lastly, our compassionate support throughout the legal process ensures our clients never feel isolated. We understand that going through a bus accident claim can be an overwhelming experience.
By providing consistent communication, empathy, and personalized attention, we make sure our clients feel supported every step of the way. To learn more about how we can help you in your case, contact us for a free case evaluation so you can understand your legal options and have all your questions answered.
What to Do After a Bus Accident in Washington State
The immediate aftermath of a bus accident is an overwhelming, stressful, and traumatic experience for most victims. The shock of being in an accident can often leave you feeling disoriented and unsure of what steps to take next. However, taking the right actions immediately can impact the outcome of your case. Here are some key steps to take after a bus accident in Washington State.
Seek Medical Attention
The most important step to take after a bus accident is to call 911 so you and everyone else injured in the accident can get the medical attention they need. Even if you feel you’re not seriously injured, you should still get a medical check. Some common injuries in bus accidents, such as whiplash, may not have any immediate symptoms. However, they may require prompt medical treatment to ensure the condition does not worsen.
Getting medical treatment also ensures proper documentation of your injuries, which is essential for your claim. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, and follow-up appointments.
Gather Evidence
Another crucial step after the accident is gathering evidence. If you’re at the accident site, gather evidence such as photos of your injuries and property damage, witness contact information, and anything else that can help you build a strong case.
If you have to leave the accident site to get emergency medical attention, have someone else you trust gather evidence on your behalf. Prioritize your health and safety over gathering evidence. Your attorney can help you with evidence, but you must not neglect getting timely medical attention.
Avoid any type of confrontation with other parties involved in the accident. Such actions could harm your case and offer no benefits. So, try to stay calm. Just exchange contact information with other parties involved in the accident, such as the bus driver and any other drivers or passengers.
This information will be vital for your attorney to build a strong case and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Remember that thorough documentation and evidence collection can impact the outcome of your claim.
Cooperate With Law Enforcement
For most bus accidents, the police will arrive at the scene. You should cooperate with them but refrain from sharing unnecessary information. While you want to be truthful, avoid admitting fault or sharing anything that can be used against you.
The law enforcement officials will likely make an incident report, also referred to as the police report, for the accident. This report contains their initial or preliminary assessment of how the accident happened and who was at fault. Request a copy of the police report and the bus accident log, as these documents can serve as crucial evidence in your case.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Without a Lawyer
While insurance companies have requirements that require you to notify them about a bus accident within a certain period of time, you do have enough time to consult with an attorney. The insurance company may offer coverage for the accident, but they may still try to minimize their payout using various tactics.
If you admit to being at fault, even partially, they could reduce your payout. Similarly, they may entice you with an unreasonably low offer to check if you fall for the trap. Victims often want to get done with insurance claims as soon as possible and may accept a settlement that they would regret later. Therefore, it’s beneficial to speak to a Washington bus accident attorney before calling the insurance company.
Contact a Washington State Bus Accident Lawyer
Along with assistance in handling communication with insurance companies, an attorney can help you in several other matters related to the bus accident. However, you need to engage the attorney early in the process. The earlier you involve them, the greater the impact they can have on your case.
This is an important step, as timely legal representation can make a difference in the outcome of your claim, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of achieving a favorable resolution. Don’t delay getting Washington State bus accident legal assistance.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident?
- Bus drivers
- Bus companies
- Municipal transit agencies
- Third-party drivers
- Manufacturers
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there could be other parties at fault for the accident. You can work with an attorney to determine who’s liable. If there’s disputed liability, you will need to establish liability through evidence, which your attorney can help you gather.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Washington State
Knowing some of the common causes of bus accidents in Washington State can help you make more informed decisions about the case. This knowledge can also help you recognize potential hazards and take steps to avoid them. Here are some of the primary factors contributing to bus accidents:
Driver-Related Negligence
A high percentage of bus accidents happen due to driver-related errors and negligence. At the top of the list is driver distraction. Bus drivers using phones, GPS devices, or other distractions while operating the vehicle can lead to accidents. Distracted driving reduces reaction times and increases the likelihood of a collision.
Another common cause of bus accidents is bus driver fatigue. The drivers often have long shifts and inadequate rest, which can lead to fatigue and drowsiness. In some cases, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol can be at fault. Impaired bus drivers have reduced coordination, slower reaction times, and impaired judgment, making them more likely to cause a crash.
External Factors
While human error is a leading cause of bus accidents in Washington State, external factors can also contribute to bus accidents. These are issues that aren’t under the control of the bus driver, such as poor road conditions and defective bus parts. Potholes, debris, or inadequate road maintenance can contribute to bus accidents. Poorly maintained roads increase the risk of tire blowouts, loss of control, and collisions.
Bus defects like faulty brakes, engine failure, or tire blowouts can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to ensure the safety and reliability of buses.
Third-Party Negligence
Third-party negligence involves actions by other individuals or entities that contribute to a bus accident. Negligent motorists, for example, may cause bus collisions through reckless driving, failing to yield, or engaging in other dangerous behavior. When another driver’s negligence leads to a bus accident, they can be held liable for the resulting damages.
Additionally, inadequate maintenance can contribute to bus accidents. Mechanical failures due to poor servicing can lead to crashes, and it’s the responsibility of bus companies and maintenance providers to ensure buses are properly maintained and safe to operate.
Compensation Available for Bus Accident Victims
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses, including hospital stays, physical therapy, and medications
- Future costs for medical treatment
- Lost income
- Reduced ability to earn a living due to lasting or permanent disabilities
- Costs to repair or replace damaged property
- Additional out-of-pocket expenses linked to the accident
Non-Economic Damages
- Emotional turmoil
- Chronic pain
- Mental anguish
- Reduced quality of life
- Permanent disfigurement
- Loss of companionship
Punitive Damages (When Applicable)
Punitive damages are intended to deter similar behavior in the future by imposing a financial penalty on the at-fault party. These damages are rare and only apply in cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct.
Call a Washington State Bus Accident Lawyer Today
Have you suffered a bus accident in Washington State? Do you want to file a claim or lawsuit to recover compensation? Contact us as soon as possible. Call us at 253-342-4965 for a free case evaluation. We require no upfront fees. This means that we only get paid if we win.