Vehicle collisions often have the potential for grievous injury. However, crashes involving buses or other large commercial vehicles are especially dangerous. These collisions continue to occur with greater frequency over the years. According to the FMCSA, the number of fatal bus accidents has increased by more than 40 percent since 2006.
If you suffered an injury in a bus accident, you might benefit from calling a compassionate injury lawyer. You have the right to pursue monetary damages, and a York County bus accident lawyer could help you hold the at-fault parties accountable for your losses.
Liable Parties in a Bus Accident
When seeking justice in a bus accident case, a York County bus crash attorney could file suit against many potential defendants. While many cases involve only two parties, some cases could have a large number of potential defendants. Some commonly liable parties in a bus accident include:
Bus Drivers
Negligent driving by a bus operator is one of the common causes of a bus crash. Some factors that might lead to a collision include an operator who is fatigued, intoxicated, or inattentive. Any violation of the rules of the road could lead to a viable claim against the bus driver.
Bus Owner
The company that owns the bus could face liability for several reasons. For example, if a negligent bus driver was acting within the scope of their employment during a crash, the bus company could be liable. The bus owner could also be on the hook if they failed to maintain the bus in proper working order.
Manufacturer
Many bus crashes occur due to mechanical defects. Defects may lead to malfunctions in the braking or power steering systems of a commercial vehicle.
State or Local Government
Some bus crashes occur due to poorly-designed roadways. A crash is more likely on roads that are too steep or have tight turns. If the poor design or maintenance of a roadway leads to a crash, the government entity in charge might be a party to the resulting litigation.
Passengers
In some cases, a passenger can cause injuries within the bus or even lead to a bus collision. When a passenger is out of control, the commotion could distract the operator and lead to an accident.
For a free legal consultation with a bus accidents lawyer serving York County, call 1-803-366-0333
Damages Available in a York County Bus Crash Case
Whether the operator or some other factor caused the accident, there are a variety of damages available to a victim. These damages fall within two categories: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages have a measurable element, meaning their value is easily determinable. Evidence used to establish the value of economic damages could include invoices or bills.
Non-economic damages are different in that determining the value is challenging. Ultimately, a jury will decide how much non-economic damages are worth. These damages include pain and suffering, as well as the loss of consortium.
Common damages in a bus accident include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Property damage repair bills
- Diminished future earning capacity
- Disfigurement
York County Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me 1-803-366-0333
Seek Help from a York County Bus Accident Attorney
A bus crash can devastate the life of everyone involved, from passengers to the drivers of the other vehicles. When a crash results in financial hardship for the victim, a York County bus accident lawyer could assist with recovering damages from the negligent party.
Do not hesitate in pursuing the compensation you deserve. To get started, contact Schiller & Hamilton to schedule your initial consultation
Call or text 1-803-366-0333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form