Bus travel is an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation. However, buses are heavy, and they can cause extensive damage in the event of an accident.
If you were hurt in bus collision, you may be able to recover compensation with help from a dedicated personal injury attorney. A Beaufort bus accident lawyer could handle the details of your claim while you focus on your health.
How is Comparative Fault Applied in Beaufort Bus Accident Claims?
The South Carolina Code provides guidelines for when a plaintiff may recover compensation in a civil suit. An injured claimant may not recover an award if the court deems that they were more at fault than the bus operator. Additionally, under S.C. Code Ann. §15-38-15, a claimant who was partially responsible for their own injuries might have their damages award reduced in proportion to their percentage of fault. For example, a plaintiff who was 10% at fault for the accident could only recover 90% of their total damages.
For a free legal consultation with a bus accidents lawyer serving Beaufort, call 1-803-366-0333
Rights and Duties of Beaufort Bus Drivers
One way that a Beaufort bus accident attorney could help a client establish fault is by showing that the bus driver violated the vehicle code. There are some laws specific to buses, and other statutes apply to all forms of transportation.
Public Transit Buses
Per S.C. Code §15-38-15, a commercial bus is any motor vehicle, other than a taxi, designed to transport more than ten people in exchange for money. For the most part, bus operators have many of the same duties of due care as other drivers.
However, bus drivers are often held to a higher standard than other drivers because of the dangers their vehicles can pose to other motorists and passengers. Accordingly, public transit operators are required to possess a commercial drivers license, which may only be obtained by passing a test.
If a commercial bus driver was improperly trained or supervised by the public transit organization, an injured rider or motorist might consider suing the company for their role in causing the accident. Moreover, if a bus has been negligently maintained, a claimant may be able to prove that the improper maintenance of the vehicle was the legal cause of the collision.
Do School Bus Drivers Have Different Responsibilities?
School bus drivers are also commercial operators and must be specially trained and licensed. The bus itself must be painted and adorned with symbols that are generally accepted signs indicating that they carry school children.
Under S.C. Code Ann. §56-5-195, a school bus must comply with federal safety standards. Motorists, too, have obligations on the road with regard to school buses. They must stop when a school bus is flashing its lights and displaying its stop sign in order to protect the children who are boarding or leaving the bus.
If a bus driver or another motorist fails to follow federal regulations or traffic laws and causes an accident, their actions may constitute negligence. A bus accident lawyer in Beaufort could analyze a situation to determine liability and hold the at-fault party accountable.
Beaufort Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me 1-803-366-0333
Consult with a Beaufort Bus Collision Attorney Today
If you were hurt while riding a bus or you collided with one, you may have legal recourse. A Beaufort bus accident lawyer could help you seek compensation for your injuries and damaged property. Call today to share your story and discuss your legal options.
Call or text 1-803-366-0333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form