Bus accident statistics
Buses are often seen as the safest mode of transportation for groups traveling within a state or between states. However, the increase in deadly accidents involving buses shows that they are not always safe. In 2019, there were over 2,700 fatal accidents involving trucks and buses, resulting in 3,080+ deaths and 60,000+ injuries. A total of 122,000+ vehicles were also damaged in bus accidents. The states with the highest number of deadly bus accidents were California, Florida, and Texas. In total, 940 people lost their lives in bus accidents, accounting for 30% of all fatal truck and bus accidents in 2019. Bus accidents can be devastating, especially due to their size and weight. If you have been involved in a bus accident, a Los Angeles car accident attorney can help you seek maximum compensation.
What are the different types of bus accidents?
There are many different types of bus accidents, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. Some common types of bus accidents include:
- Single-vehicle accidents: These occur when a bus is involved in an accident but no other vehicles are involved. Single-vehicle accidents can be caused by factors such as driver error, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions.
- Multi-vehicle accidents: These occur when a bus is involved in an accident with one or more other vehicles. These accidents can be caused by factors such as distracted driving, improper lane changes, or following too closely.
- Pedestrian accidents: These happen when a bus strikes a pedestrian, often as a result of the pedestrian not being visible to the bus driver or the bus driver failing to yield the right of way.
- Rollover accidents: These occur when a bus flips onto its side or roof. These accidents are often caused by factors such as excessive speed, sudden turns, or uneven road surfaces.
- Rear-end collisions: These occur when the front of a vehicle hits the back of a bus that is stopped or moving slowly. These accidents are often caused by distracted or inattentive driving.
Overall, the type of bus accident that occurs will depend on the specific circumstances and factors involved in the accident.
Who is liable during a bus accident
In a bus accident, multiple parties may be held liable for the accident and any injuries or property damage that result. The specific parties who may be held liable will depend on the circumstances of the accident, but may include:
- The bus driver: If the bus driver was at fault for the accident, they may be held personally liable for any injuries or property damage that result.
- The bus company: If the bus driver was acting on behalf of a bus company at the time of the accident, the bus company may also be held liable for the accident.
- The manufacturer of the bus or bus parts: If the accident was caused by a defect in the bus or one of its parts, the manufacturer of the bus or the defective part may be held liable.
- Other drivers: If the accident was caused by the actions of another driver, that driver may also be held liable for the accident.
Overall, the parties who may be held liable for a bus accident will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident. It’s important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options and can help you pursue the appropriate parties for compensation.
How much will it cost to hire an attorney?
The cost of hiring a bus accident attorney will vary depending on factors such as the attorney’s experience and reputation, the complexity of the case, and the location of the attorney. In general, bus accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they will not charge a fee unless they are successful in obtaining compensation for their clients. In a contingency fee arrangement, the attorney will typically receive a percentage of the settlement or award as their fee. The percentage can range from 25% to 40% of the total amount, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. It’s important to discuss the fee arrangement with the attorney before hiring them so that you understand the terms of the agreement and what you can expect to pay.
Do lawyers help with bus accidents?
Yes, a lawyer can help with a bus accident injury or incident. If you have been involved in a bus accident and have been injured as a result, an experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and can assist you in seeking compensation for your injuries. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand the legal aspects of your case and can guide the best course of action to take. Overall, hiring a lawyer can be beneficial if you have been injured in a bus accident, as they can help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.
What to do after a bus accident
If you are injured in a bus accident, make sure to tell the police officer who arrives at the scene what happened. Write down the details while they are still fresh in your mind, including the date, time, location, and bus number. Take pictures and videos for your records before you leave the scene. Be sure to get medical care for your injuries right away. Before you accept any insurance settlement, talk to a lawyer in Los Angeles about your rights to recover from your injuries.