The term “bus accident” can refer to wrecks involving school buses, public transit (like city buses), charter buses, or commercial motor coaches.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) tracks fatal bus accident statistics for the country and reports that “about 63,000 buses are involved in traffic crashes each year.” An average of 325 bus accidents will result in a fatality and 14,000 will result in non-fatal injuries.
A 2009 report from FMCSA – the most recent comprehensive study from the agency – shows that, of an average of 375 annual bus accident deaths, most are occupants of other vehicles or pedestrians/bicyclists. About 15 percent of fatalities occur amongst bus passengers.
A 2011 investigative report from USA Today suggests government studies undercount bus accidents and fatalities, particularly those involving motor coaches. The newspaper cites safety advocates arguing that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s findings have “given Congress and the public a false impression that buses are safer than they are and has thwarted efforts to promote tougher regulation.” Our team of experienced lawyers understands how conflicting statistics and reports may come into play in building a successful claim.
Do I Have A Bus Accident Case?
How Will You Handle My Case?
Proving damages and liability in a bus accident case requires extensive legwork and research. In order to grasp the “big picture”, our team of lawyers engages in a variety of case-building activities including:
- Collecting evidence of damages;
- Securing expert testimony;
- Researching the bus driver, hiring company, and/or government agency involved in the crash;
- Interviewing witnesses;
- Filing all relevant paperwork;
- Speaking with all involved insurance adjusters; and
- Representing a victim during negotiations and trial.
What Are the Common Injuries from a Bus Accident?
Regardless of cause, bus accidents cause serious injuries. This is particularly true because of the lack of seatbelts on buses. Some common injuries with bus accidents are broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Susan recalls one horrific case in which a bus accident resulted in the loss of a young girl’s leg.
How Do I Find a Bus Accident Injury Lawyer?
Having worked with bus accident cases for many years, Susan Allen with Van Wey & Williams understands the ins and outs of these cases. Susan’s first piece of advice is to consult with a bus accident lawyer as soon as possible. Besides seeking medical treatment for injuries, getting a lawyer on your case is one of the most important first steps you should take following a bus accident.
Since collecting and preserving evidence is key to having a successful case, documenting the accident and your injuries are crucial. Lawyers like Susan and the team at Van Wey, Metzler & Williams can help you with this process.
Being injured in a bus accident is difficult enough. Van Wey, Metzler & Williams wants to make the legal side of these accidents a little less difficult. Our boutique firm has the expertise and resources necessary to handle bus accident cases and help victims along with their recovery process. If you or a loved one have been involved in a bus accident, call us for a free consultation.
Our Dallas Bus Accident Injury lawyers are here for you. Call us today!