Bus accidents in California are becoming increasingly more common. Cities like San Francisco have experienced numerous accidents with MUNI busses resulting in serious injuries to passengers and bystanders. Smaller cities have also seen the number of bus accidents rise in recent years. The demand for more public transportation is continuing to increase and the number of accidents involving busses is climbing as well.
Lawsuits involving bus accidents present different legal issues than ordinary vehicle accidents. Bus operators are often considered “common carriers.” A Common Carrier is one that regularly transports people or goods for a fee and offers their service to the general public. In California, common carriers are subject to different rules than other entities and must use the utmost care and diligence for the safe transportation of the public. This is a higher duty than just avoiding Negligence and can help an injured person recover damages after an accident. It is important to note that claims resulting from bus accidents are subject to various Statutes Of Limitation which limit the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit. If the accident involved a public bus line, the claim may be against a government entity. These claims can be very complicated and there are additional procedures and strict timelines that must be followed. If you have been injured in any type of bus accident, contact a qualified attorney immediately to protect your rights.
Driver Negligence is the most common theory of liability in bus accident cases. However, other factors may contribute to these accidents and must be thoroughly analyzed by an attorney. For example, the Negligence of other drivers, weather conditions, unsafe road design, improper maintenance, and defective parts could all cause or contribute to a bus accident.
The damages available to a person injured in a bus accident will be different in every case. However, the general categories of damages that may be recovered include past and future medical expenses, property damages, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and possibly punitive damages.
If you or loved one has been injured in a bus accident, get the advice of an experienced bus accident attorney as soon as possible. Call The Scranton Law Firm today for your free consultation.
Click here to read this website in English
