Buses have always been an affordable but convenient way for commuters to get from one place to another. This economical choice of transportation is currently experiencing a spike in demand and unfortunately, so is the risk of having an accident while riding, driving, or walking near one.
Public transportation’s primary concern is safety, but sometimes accidents occur that result in injury or, even worse, fatalities. That’s where Petersburg personal injury lawyer at Pendleton Law comes in. If you have been in an accident, our bus accident lawyers in Petersburg can help you seek compensation.
What to Do After Being Involved in a Bus Accident
Depending on the circumstances, a bus accident can be more likely to cause severe injury than a standard auto accident. Multiple injuries or fatalities generally have higher payouts, and since insurance agencies prefer to avoid this, they downplay damages or offer way below case value.
It is critical to the worth of your case to be tactical in your approach and take the following steps after being involved in a bus accident:
Call the Police
Report the accident honestly but under no circumstance admit any fault or confirm that you are okay without medical attention. Simply advise law enforcement or the paramedics that you are uncertain and need to get checked by a doctor.
Document Everything
Capture videos of the injured parties, photos of the damage, and even witness statements if you can. Gather contact information of all involved or bystanders that may have seen the bus wreck occur. The photos and statements may be used as evidence later.
Get a Medical Evaluation
Those involved in a crash that is not immediately showing symptoms may be in worse condition. It is important to visit your doctor, use an ambulatory service or go to the emergency room immediately after being in a bus accident.
Don’t Speak to Insurance Without a Lawyer
Although you are injured, insurance works for itself. They lose money if they pay each claim fairly. When they reach out to take a recorded statement, avoid speaking with them until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
Maintain Doctor’s Notes, Visits and Advice
During the investigation, an adjuster will look for inconsistencies and may minimize your injuries. Keeping a record of all medical diagnoses, treatment plans and current appointments will make it hard for them to challenge the validity of your claim.
This firm has a proven record of success representing bus accident victims against government entities like the Department of Rail and Public Transportation. Do all that you can to defend your claim, and your attorney will do the same to win the settlement that you deserve.
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804-250-5050
Common Bus Crash Injuries
Injuries are a result of negligent behavior. While they vary in severity, all injuries need to be properly examined by a medical practitioner in order to prevent a worsening condition. Common injuries from bus accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and other head wounds
- Broken bones or fractures
- Neck injuries, such as whiplash
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Abrasions and lacerations, some can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Permanent paralysis or disability
Emotional anguish, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress, are also common after a bus accident. Our Petersburg attorneys specializing in bus accidents are able to refer you to medical professionals that will get you back onto the road of recovery.
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Causes of Virginia Bus Accidents
It is evident from the yearly reports published by the Department of Motor Vehicles that most bus crashes are preventable no matter who is at fault. The reports specify driver-related accident causes such as:
- Failure to properly operate the vehicle
- Distracted driving
- Inexperienced drivers
- Fatigued driving
- Lack of road visibility
- Dangerous weather conditions
- Poor road conditions
- Failure to maintain vehicle equipment
- Defective auto equipment
- Wrongly loaded cargo or weight distribution
Commercial drivers in Virginia have to provide the highest level of practical care for the safety of their passengers. If their negligent conduct is the cause of the bus accident, punitive damages may be awarded to the victims.
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Bus Accident Settlements
When injured in a bus accident, injuries that have long-term pain or life-altering impairments are generally worth more than ones with concussions or sprains. While no auto accident is identical, the settlement amounts are designed to cover similar expenses.
There is not a typical settlement amount for a certain injury or type of accident, however, the compensation that is sought after is meant to provide money for:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Income capacity changes or wage loss
- Property damage
- Emotional and mental anguish
For an itemized calculation of how much your compensation package is worth, our bus accident Petersburg legal team will assess your case, injuries, and property losses.
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Statute of Limitations in Virginia
For the state of Virginia, the legal deadline to file a personal injury claim is two years.
Code of Virginia § 8.01-243 states that victims must file within this time frame in order to qualify for compensation.
There are no exceptions to this regulation, so if you file after that time period, you voluntarily waive your rights to collect a settlement payment for your losses. Retaining legal service can ensure that you have all legal documents submitted in a timely manner.
Experienced Bus Accident Lawyer in Petersburg
Contact us, an experienced bus accident law firm in Petersburg and its surrounding areas. Our attorneys have extensive knowledge of personal injury law and experience with commercial driving accidents. If you have been injured in a bus accident, take legal action today.
Our legal office operates on a contingent fee basis, so there are no upfront costs or retainer fees. We only collect payment for legal services after your settlement is won. Don’t face commercial and government organizations alone. Schedule a free consultation today.
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