Each time you become a bus passenger, you’re putting your life in someone else’s hands. While we all assume riding the bus is safe, is that an accurate perception?
It depends on your outlook. Every year, about 17,000 children visit the ER after suffering bus-related injuries. About 40% of those injuries are the result of car accidents.
That number does seem high, but you also need to know that 23.5 million kids ride the bus each day.
When an accident does happen, we have systems in place to protect anyone who gets injured. Read on to learn what to do and who you can sue to get the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Bus Crash
Most motor vehicle accidents are traumatic, especially when you’re a passenger. Bus accidents are no different. If you get involved in a crash, then there are some specific steps you need to take to protect yourself.
First, check yourself for any significant injuries. If you or someone close by is in bad shape, then call 911. If it’s not an emergency, then you should still call the police and report the accident.
If you are involved in an auto accident, you may feel that there is no one you can turn to besides your insurance company or your family. You can choose to pursue a case through a car accident attorney. Either way, your rights will be better protected than if you don’t.
If possible, take photos of the scene, the bus, and yourself in the bus. Ask any nearby witnesses to give a statement to police.
Next, you need to seek out medical treatment. Ask your doctor for a copy of your diagnosis and bill. If you’re missing time off of work, ask for a letter from your employer.
Are your losses stacking up? If so, then it’s a good idea to start researching your options for compensation. These options will depend on who is liable for your bus crash.
Who is Liable After a Bus Crash?
So, who could you seek out compensation from after you get injured in a bus accident? The answer to that question is very complicated, and it hinges on the details around your crash. In a nutshell, though, the following parties might get held liable:
- The bus driver
- The company that employs the bus driver
- Another driver on the road
- The city (who hired the bus driver and company)
Do you need help identifying who to seek out compensation from? A good personal injury lawyer can help.
It’s best to get in touch with a lawyer ASAP after a bus crash, especially if you suspect the city could be liable. If that’s the case, then you have a limited window to seek out a claim.
Know Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Bus Passenger
No one expects to get injured when they decide to ride the bus. Despite that, accidents can and do happen at the worst time. To protect yourself now and in the future, you need to know your rights as a bus passenger.
One of those rights is the ability to seek compensation for injuries. Now, you should feel empowered by the knowledge on what you should do after a bus accident.
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