The road can be a dangerous place, and vehicle accidents happen daily. The injuries, property damages, and losses that occur from collisions can be shattering. If you or a loved one was involved in a bus accident, you might be able to sue for compensation.
An injury case can help you stop suffering whether you or your family member were passengers on the bus, another driver on the road, or a pedestrian. The financial reward can pay for looming medical bills, damaged vehicles, and more.
Working with an Omaha bus accident lawyer can start the process of seeking recovery for the losses you suffered in the incident. Speak to the Ben Crump Law team, PLLC to learn more about bus accident cases in Omaha by calling (800) 921-7227.
Bus Accident Lawsuits
Automobile accidents can cause a lot of damage to persons and property. Buses require an experienced and competent driver due to their size and weight. For this reason, bus drivers must have professional driving credentials and training.
Like other professional drivers who operate large vehicles, bus drivers must have valid commercial driver licenses (CDL). The law holds CDL drivers to stricter rules and consequences.
For instance, driving under the influence (DUI) is much more serious for a CDL holder. Professional drivers with a DUI charge can lose their driving privileges for much longer than standard drivers, face steeper fines, and may not be able to return to professional driving.
Types of buses include:
- School buses that carry children to and from school and home
- Motorcoaches used for long distances
- Shuttle buses, like those at airports and sporting events
- Open-top and minibuses that are often used for tours
- Low-floor buses, which are the ones commonly used for public transportation
- Single- and double-decker buses that are also used for public transit
- Articulated buses, which are so long that the middle bends to accommodate small city streets
For a free legal consultation with a bus accidents lawyer serving Omaha, call (800) 921-7227
Filing for Damages from a Bus Accident
Nebraska Revised Statutes (NRS) § 25-222 states that you have two years to take action against someone based on professional negligence. Negligence is a failure to do something a reasonable person would do. For instance, a pet owner could be negligent and responsible for damages their dog caused if they did not keep it on a leash.
A bus driver or their employer could be professional negligence for causing harm to the passengers. The driver is responsible for taking care of his or her passengers. Should the bus driver be at-fault for an accident, they may also be professional negligence.
There are tens of thousands of commercial driver violations annually, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Some of these include:
- Driving over the speed limit
- Operating a vehicle past the maximum driving hours
- Not obeying traffic lights
- Driving without a valid license
- The vehicle not operating properly, such as broken lights or windshield wipers
Your Omaha bus accident lawyer can assist in the legal process of filing for compensation.
Omaha Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me (800) 921-7227
Who Is Responsible for a Bus Accident
The bus driver is responsible for transporting passengers and following the rules of the road. They must also make routine examinations of their vehicle, like checking the tires, lights, and oil. These requirements are in place to keep passengers and other drivers safe. Failure to complete their responsibilities can lead to accidents, injuries, property damage, and even death.
Some reasons a bus driver is responsible for an accident:
- Distracted driving, such as using a cell phone
- Impaired driving, like operating the bus under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Disobeying traffic laws, such as speeding and running red lights
The bus company also has responsibilities. They are liable for the proper maintenance of their vehicles and must repair any defects before allowing passenger use. The company is also responsible for hiring and training employees.
Accidents that were the weather and other drivers’ fault may not be the responsibility of either the driver or the company. However, you should still have the right to seek damages if you were hurt in a bus accident. It may not always be clear at the time who is at fault. The team at Ben Crump Law, PLLC can investigate your case to understand better who is responsible for the collision.
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Compensation from Bus Accident Cases
Seeking compensation for damages can help you and your family recover from the accident. You can sue for reimbursement of medical expenses related to injuries suffered. This includes any initial injuries as well as ongoing medical costs. For example, if the crash causes you or a loved one to require ongoing therapy, those expenses should be included in your lawsuit.
You may also seek reimbursement for lost wages. If you were unable to make it to work because of your injuries, you may include your lost wages. Any future lost wages may also be included. For instance, if the accident causes injuries that stop you from returning to work, you may sue for reduced earning capacity.
You can also seek compensation for the expenses related to repairs or replacement if the accident damaged your vehicle. This includes if your vehicle was sideswiped while parked.
You will need evidence to back up your claims. This can include bills for medical care, mechanic repairs, and more. For reimbursement of lost wages, paychecks and other employment information can show the monetary amount you lost.
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Getting a Legal Professional on Your Side
A legal team can fight for you while you heal from the accident. Sitting across from a table from multiple lawyers can be intimidating if you are unfamiliar with your rights and the law. Having an Omaha bus accident lawyer on your side can help you focus on yourself while also taking legal action.
Call (800) 921-7227 to discuss your case with Ben Crump Law, PLLC.
Call or text (800) 921-7227 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form