Many people take the bus for travel or daily commuting because they are safe and reliable. While less common than other car wrecks, bus collisions do occur. Unfortunately, they can leave you with severe injuries and lasting consequences.
If you suffered harm and monetary losses because of someone else’s thoughtlessness, you have the right to pursue a payout from the responsible person or parties. A skilled personal injury attorney can help. A Hayward bus accident lawyer can review your case during a private consultation.
Common Injuries from Bus Collisions
Some examples of injuries people sustain in bus collisions include:
- Whiplash
- Painful strains and sprains
- Torn muscles, tendons, and ligaments
- Broken bones, such as ribs, arms, or legs
- Skull fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
Bus crashes can also leave riders with psychological trauma, severe anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Seeking prompt medical care after bus collisions is essential because bodily harm is not always visible. People who bring a lawsuit for compensation also need evidence of their injuries. A Hayward bus collision attorney has the experience to provide sound guidance and legal advice throughout the process to obtain a fair settlement.
Preparing the Claim
Preparing the claim in bus accident lawsuits requires gathering vital evidence and documentation. The evidence also needs to be reviewed deeply to determine liability, build a powerful case, and collect a settlement successfully.
The case must show the defendant’s careless actions caused the plaintiff’s bodily injuries and other damages. Civil claims require skilled negotiations, litigation, and overcoming challenging hurdles and complexities.
Time Limit for Filing the Claim
Complying with the law is vital for proving fault to the civil court jury and winning an award for injuries and losses. The statute of limitations limits the time to file a lawsuit with the court and begin legal action.
The maximum allowable time for most personal injury cases is two years after the accident. While case-specific circumstances could shorten or extend the date, the defendant can request that the court dismiss the claim when it is filed after the statute expires. This is why it is essential to make sure you file your lawsuit before the statute of limitations in your case has passed.
Suits Against Government Agencies
State or local government agencies operate many public transportation companies, including buses. When the defendant in a lawsuit is a state or local government agency, there is a different – often much shorter – statute of limitations and additional requirements before you can file a lawsuit. Typically, you must file a claim directly with the agency involved in the case within six months of the accident. But be aware: some government entities may have even shorter deadlines than this. This is why it is critical to consult an experienced Hayward bus accident lawyer as soon as possible so that you do not miss these deadlines to pursue a settlement.
If the government agency denies liability, the plaintiff may begin legal action in court. A bus crash lawyer in Hayward with extensive experience and who knows the regulations inside out can handle the preparation, filings, and negotiations to fight for a fair resolution.
Schedule a Consultation with a Knowledgeable Hayward Bus Accident Attorney
You can be eligible for compensation for your damages and losses when you were injured in a bus collision caused by negligence. Personal injury laws protect the public by giving everyone the opportunity to take legal action and hold the negligent party financially responsible for the harm they cause.
A Hayward bus accident lawyer could help you navigate the challenging process, take on the legal work, and fight for a fair settlement. Call soon to schedule an appointment to review your case specifics and available options.