Public transportation is popular among Kingwood commuters. Riding the Houston Metro and sending your children to ride the school bus saves times and gas. Unfortunately, buses have become just as much of a hazard as other cars on the road. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a collision involving a public transit vehicle, one of our Kingwood bus accident lawyers can advise you on your legal options and help you take your case forward.
Due to the relative size of buses compared to other passenger vehicles, the injuries sustained in a public transit vehicle crash can be severe and life-altering. Bus accidents may result in devastating injuries to multiple parties, including passengers, occupants of other motor vehicles, and nearby pedestrians. You can call one of our personal injury attorneys for assistance with your case.
What Typically Causes Local Bus Collisions?
Bus collisions occur for many of the same reasons as other motor vehicle accidents. Distracted driving, cell phone use behind the wheel, and drug or alcohol impairment may all lead to collisions by negligent bus drivers. Sometimes accidents happen due to the driver’s inexperience, lack of training, or simple recklessness.
Bus companies can also face civil liability. The bus companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, training their drivers, and adequately screening prospective drivers. Manufacturers of buses and bus parts can also be held liable when defective parts on a public transit vehicle cause an otherwise avoidable crash.
Determining the cause of a bus wreck is crucial to assigning fault and liability in a civil claim. When public transit vehicle accidents involve multiple parties, determining who caused the accident can be complicated, and more than one party could bear liability. For this reason, you should contact one of our lawyers in Kingwood about your potential bus collision claim.
Common Types of Public Transit Vehicle Accidents
In some cases, a lack of safety features in buses can lead to multiple or more severe injuries. A lack of seatbelts and airbags is common in school and city buses.
Due to their design, public transit vehicles are also more susceptible to rolling over than other cars. The roofs and windows of buses may not be strong enough to guard against ejection, crushing, or other injuries.
In other cases, overcrowding, sudden stops in traffic, and slippery bus steps and floors may contribute to passenger injuries. If you suffered from catastrophic injuries in a public transportation vehicle accident, call Haines Law. We will help you bring a claim against any parties whose negligence contributed to your injuries.
Recoverable Damages after a Bus Accident in Kingwood
The severity of injuries sustained in bus accidents will determine the type of damages that may be available to you in a personal injury claim. In the case of permanent injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for current and future medical care necessitated by your injuries.
Other potentially recoverable damages include:
- Loss of current and future income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional anguish
- Personal care expenses
Call a Kingwood Bus Accident Attorney Today
Bus accidents can have catastrophic consequences, including substantial injuries to multiple parties. When these accidents are preventable and occur due to the negligence of others, you may have a valid claim for damages. One of our Kingwood bus accident lawyers can guide you through the legal claims process and work toward getting you the settlement you deserve.
The aftermath of a public transit vehicle collision can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you do not have to handle the insurance companies on your own. Let our team handle these matters on your behalf as you focus on your physical and mental recovery.