Bus Accident Lawyer

Experienced Bus Accident Lawyer in Glendale, AZ

Bus accidents can have serious consequences, as you may have seen in news stories. If you find yourself injured in such an incident, seeking the help of a skilled bus accident lawyer is crucial. They can guide you through your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Each year, there are over 300 fatal bus crashes and numerous others resulting in property damage and injuries. Knowing how to handle such situations is vital. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Arizona, contact our experienced personal injury team now for a free consultation.

Call us at (602) 483-6059 or fill out our form to schedule a free consultation with a lawyer near you.

Negligence Leads to Preventable Arizona Bus Accident Injuries

A recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) discovered that city buses are responsible for about 13% of fatal bus accidents throughout the country every year. Deadly school bus accidents account for nearly 40%, and transit buses total 35% of all fatal bus crashes in the nation annually.

Furthermore, each year, more than 20,000 people endure injuries in bus crashes, as reported by Journalists Resource. Given the high volume of bus usage, congested city streets, bustling pedestrian traffic, and other factors, major cities like Phoenix are particularly susceptible to severe bus accidents. While bus accidents may be prevalent in urban areas, the majority of preventable incidents stem from negligent behavior by bus drivers, owners, and third parties. Below, we explore several scenarios that can lead to grave bus accidents and resulting injuries:

Poor Bus Maintenance

Phoenix boasts a diverse array of buses, including those operated by the City of Phoenix, Phoenix school districts, and private charter companies. Irrespective of ownership, bus operators bear the responsibility of conducting regular inspections to ensure their vehicles are in optimal working condition before ferrying passengers. Negligence in maintaining and inspecting buses can lead to mechanical failures, which in turn can result in severe accidents. Regrettably, proving liability in such incidents can be arduous without the expertise of a seasoned Phoenix bus accident lawyer well-versed in handling such cases.

Overcrowded Buses

Weight limits are applicable to all motor vehicles, including buses. Exceeding the weight limit of a bus can jeopardize the driver’s control and increase the risk of accidents. While overcrowding isn’t typically an issue on scheduled school bus routes, public buses can sometimes reach capacity rapidly. It is the responsibility of the bus company and driver to manage the passenger load, and in cases of injuries resulting from overcrowding, these parties may be held accountable.

Drowsy Driving Bus Accidents

Bus drivers often work long shifts that can leave them tired, especially during night routes. That’s why the FMCSA has dedicated extensive resources to studying the correlation between sleep and driving. According to their case studies, bus drivers who go without sleep for 18 hours or more exhibit the same impairment level as individuals with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08, which is considered a DUI offense. If you find yourself in an accident where the bus driver appears noticeably drowsy or fatigued, it is advised to promptly seek assistance from a Phoenix bus accident attorney.

Distracted Driving Bus Accidents

Similar to all other drivers, bus operators are required to abide by federal regulations concerning the use of cell phones while driving. When operating a bus, drivers are prohibited from using cell phones unless they employ a hands-free device. While cell phones are a major contributor to distracted and reckless driving, there are numerous other factors that can contribute to bus accidents. Examples of these distractions include disruptive passengers, consuming food or beverages while driving, gawking at incidents, adjusting seats or mirrors, and many more.

Illegal Passing or Failure to Yield Bus Accidents

Passengers on buses frequently experience injuries due to accidents caused by other drivers. Impatient motorists in smaller vehicles often become frustrated when stuck behind slow-moving buses and may attempt to illegally pass them on the shoulder or the opposite side of the road. This reckless behavior creates a hazardous and potentially fatal situation for both vehicles involved, as well as for passengers entering or exiting the bus. This is particularly concerning in cases where schoolchildren need to cross the road.

Understanding The Complexity Of Bus Accident Cases

One of the most important reasons to seek professional assistance when facing a bus accident case is because of the complex nature of these cases. There are a number of individuals who can be at fault, including the driver, the bus company, and other negligent drivers, as well as the bus equipment itself or even government entities if you are riding on a public bus. Hiring a personal injury attorney will help you determine whether you have a case and who you should seek compensation from for the best results for your case.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

To help your attorney determine who is at fault for the bus accident that injured you or damaged your property, it’s essential to dig into the facts to learn why it happened. This will help you determine the exact cause and who will be held responsible.

Some of the factors that can play a role in these types of accidents include:

Once you understand why the accident has occurred, you will be able to determine who should be responsible for the damages and injuries you have sustained.

FAQs About Bus Accident Claims

1. What should I do immediately after a bus accident?

Seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Document the scene by taking photos, gathering witness information, and reporting the incident to authorities or the bus company. Retain any records of your injuries and expenses for your claim.

2. Who can be held responsible for a bus accident?

Depending on the circumstances, several parties might be liable, including:

• The bus driver (for negligence or misconduct)
• The bus company (for poor maintenance or unsafe policies)
• Manufacturers (if defective equipment caused the accident)
• Third-party drivers (if their reckless behavior contributed)
• Government entities (if the accident involved public transportation)

3. What types of compensation can I recover after a bus accident?

Victims may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in severe cases, future medical needs or loss of earning capacity.

4. How do I prove negligence in a bus accident case?

To establish negligence, you must show that a party failed to act responsibly, directly causing the accident and your injuries. Evidence like maintenance records, eyewitness accounts, accident reports, and driver logs can help build your case.

5. Why are bus accident cases complex?

Bus accident cases often involve multiple parties, making it difficult to determine liability. Additionally, public transportation accidents may involve government entities, which have specific legal protections and processes for claims. Hiring an experienced attorney can help you navigate these complexities and secure fair compensation.