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If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Kingman, you might not know what to do next. Don’t worry, though; you’re in the right place.
The skilled bus accident attorneys at Torgenson Law are here to help guide you through this complicated process. We’ll file the court documents and negotiate with the insurance companies. We’ll talk to the defendants, seek settlements, and, if necessary, go to court on your behalf. All you have to do is focus on your recovery.
Before we start talking about that process, though, let’s take a minute to understand why bus accidents are so common in the first place.
At Torgenson Law, we’ve been handling bus accidents for decades. While every incident is unique, there are some common factors we often see that contribute to these accidents. We’ll explain them below but know that understanding why an accident happened is the first step in determining who should be held accountable.
Often, accidents occur due to mistakes or negligence on the part of the bus driver. This includes distracted driving, where the driver’s attention is diverted by activities such as using a phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging with passengers.
Fatigue is another significant factor; drivers working long hours without adequate rest may experience drowsiness, impairing their reaction time and judgment. This impairment can lead to an increased risk of making critical errors, such as failing to notice obstacles or misjudging the speed and distance of other vehicles on the road.
Buses are complex machines, and mechanical issues can lead to accidents if not properly maintained. Brake failure is a critical issue, as it can prevent the bus from stopping effectively and lead to collisions.
Tire blowouts are another common problem; a sudden loss of tire pressure can cause the bus to veer off course, especially if it happens at high speeds. Engine problems, such as stalling or power loss, can result in the bus stopping unexpectedly, creating dangerous situations for both the bus and other road users. Steering malfunctions can also impair the driver’s ability to maneuver the vehicle correctly.
The state of the road can significantly impact bus safety. Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can cause drivers to lose control or make sudden maneuvers to avoid hazards. Poorly maintained roads can exacerbate these issues, making driving more hazardous. Weather conditions also play a role; rain, snow, and ice can make roads slippery and challenging to navigate, increasing the risk of skidding or losing control.
The design and condition of roadways can contribute to accidents. Dangerous intersections, sharp turns, or inadequate merging lanes can create risky driving conditions. Insufficient lighting at bus stops or on roads can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, other vehicles, or road hazards, especially in low-visibility situations. Inadequate traffic control measures, such as malfunctioning signals or unclear signage, can lead to confusion and errors in navigating the road.
Interactions with other vehicles can also lead to accidents. Tailgating by other drivers can result in rear-end collisions if the bus needs to stop suddenly. Vehicles running red lights or stop signs can collide with the bus, particularly at intersections where traffic flow is complex. Unsafe lane changes by other drivers, who may not signal or check their surroundings properly, can result in collisions with the bus.
Finally, inadequate training or supervision of bus drivers can contribute to accidents. Drivers who have not received proper training in defensive driving, vehicle handling, or emergency procedures may be more likely to make errors that lead to accidents. A lack of proper oversight from bus companies or transit authorities can also result in drivers operating under unsafe conditions or without adequate rest.
Like we said above, understanding the root cause of your bus accident is important in determining who is liable and what damages might be available. Let’s discuss those now.
When seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a bus accident, it’s important to understand the different types of damages that may be available. These damages are generally categorized into economic, non-economic, and punitive damages, each serving a distinct purpose in compensating the victim.
Economic damages are intended to compensate for the concrete, measurable financial losses that a victim incurs as a result of the accident. In the context of a bus accident, these can include:
Non-economic damages are designed to compensate for the intangible, subjective impacts of the accident that cannot be easily quantified. In bus accident cases, these damages may include:
Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer for particularly egregious or reckless behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. These damages go beyond compensating the victim for their losses and focus on the conduct of the defendant. In bus accident cases, punitive damages might be awarded if the accident was caused by extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or grossly disregarding safety regulations. Punitive damages are less common and are only awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions are deemed to be outrageously reckless or malicious.
Calculating and pursuing damages involves gathering comprehensive evidence to support each type of claim. This includes medical records, financial statements, personal testimonies, and expert opinions. The legal team at Torgenson Law will help you navigate this process, making sure that all potential damages are considered.
With that in mind, though, there are some steps you should take after your bus accident to ensure you’re protecting your rights and maximizing your chances for compensation.
After a bus accident, taking the right steps can significantly influence your ability to secure adequate compensation for your injuries and losses. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you should do to protect your rights and maximize your potential for compensation:
First and foremost, ensure that everyone at the scene is safe. If you or others are injured, seek immediate medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get checked out, as some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
Collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene. This includes:
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the relevant details and cooperate with their investigation. If the bus was operated by a public transit agency or private company, also report the incident to the appropriate authority or bus company, as they may have specific procedures for handling claims.
Keep detailed records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and any out-of-pocket expenses. Also, track your lost wages and any other financial losses. Maintaining thorough documentation supports your claim for economic damages.
Follow through with all recommended medical treatments and appointments. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and correspondence with healthcare providers. This documentation is essential in proving the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with your recovery.
You should also keep a journal of your pain, suffering, and how the accident impacts your daily life. Documenting changes in your physical and emotional well-being can support claims for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.
Be cautious about accepting early settlement offers from insurance companies. These offers may be lower than what you are entitled to and may not fully account for future medical expenses or long-term impacts on your life. Consult with a personal injury attorney before agreeing to any settlement.
Adhere to the legal advice provided by your attorney. They will guide you through the process, including filing claims, gathering evidence, and negotiating settlements. Following their advice ensures that you take the appropriate steps to strengthen your case and maximize your compensation.
By taking these steps, you can more effectively protect your rights and improve your chances of securing fair compensation for the damages and suffering caused by your bus accident.
If you’ve been injured in a Yuma bus accident, the attorneys at Torgenson Law want to hear from you. We have a wealth of experience handling these cases and know what it takes to secure the settlements our clients deserve.
Ready to get a strong legal advocate in your corner? Reach out to Torgenson Law today or give us a call at 602-726-0747. Remember, your first consultation is free, and you won’t pay anything unless we secure compensation for your injuries.
