Bus Accidents

Personal Injury

Bus Accidents

HUNTSVILLE ALABAMA BUS ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS

Best Decatur Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me

Bus accidents can be devastating because of the number of passengers onboard. Most buses are not equipped with or do not require riders to utilize seat belts. Combine these facts with the realization that many of the occupants are moving around the bus when the accident occurs, and you have the makings of a very serious accident. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bus accident in Mobile, Atlanta, Huntsville, Nashville, or Birmingham, speaking with a Huntsville bus accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights. We offer no obligation-free consultations to all bus accident victims and their families. Call 256-534-3435. We are here to help.

Bus Accident Statistics

Statistically, buses are one of the safest forms of transportation in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that bus accidents represented 0.5 percent of fatal accidents in 2012; about two-thirds of these were collisions with other vehicles, while one-third were pedestrian accidents or rollovers. Approximately 12,000 people suffer serious injuries, and 330 others are killed each year in bus accidents. Statistics show that there are approximately 9,000 bus accidents in the United States every year. According to the Center for National Truck and Bus Safety Statistics, the most common fatal bus-related accidents are car-bus collisions and pedestrian accidents. More than 60% of bus accident fatalities involve another vehicle, and 25% involve a pedestrian.

There are many causes of bus accidents:

Causes of bus accidents include the following:

  • Old buses with outdated bus equipment
  • Poor Visibility
  • Onboard Fires
  • Poor and Improper Maintenance
  • Bad Roads
  • Bus Driver Error
  • Driver Fatigue
  • Aggressive Driving
  • Poor Driving for Weather Conditions
  • Lack Of Safety Meetings and Training
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Pedestrians Entering the Bus Lane
  • Speeding
  • Passenger Vehicles Veering in the Bus Lane
  • Brake Failure
  • Dangerous Roadways

What types of evidence are used to prove fault in a bus accident in Huntsville?

In cases involving bus accidents in Huntsville, various types of evidence can be utilized to establish fault. Witness testimony plays a crucial role, as eyewitnesses can provide valuable information through written or oral statements detailing the circumstances of the accident. This could include observations such as a bus driver making an illegal lane change that led to the collision. Gathering contact information from witnesses promptly after the incident is advisable to secure their accounts. The use of surveillance camera footage is another effective method to demonstrate fault in bus accidents. Different types of surveillance recordings, such as dashboard camera footage from other vehicles or security camera footage from nearby establishments, can capture the events before, during, and after the accident. Accessing such footage quickly is vital, as it may not be preserved for an extended period. Physical evidence and photographs from the accident scene can also be compelling pieces of evidence to establish fault. For example, matching broken parts like a headlight to a specific vehicle can help identify the responsible party. Additionally, photos depicting weather conditions at the time of the accident can invalidate alternative theories of fault proposed by the defendant. Expert witness testimony is another valuable tool in proving fault for bus accidents. Experts, such as engineers, can provide expert opinions on complex fault theories, such as demonstrating how a crash occurred due to a defective part. Their specialized knowledge can offer crucial insights that contribute to building a strong case for establishing fault.

Damages You Can Recover

The Law Office of Ferguson and Ferguson is an experienced bus accident law firm with a long track record of obtaining for clients the compensation and accountability they deserve. An individual who negligently operates a motor vehicle may be liable for a wide variety of damages that an accident can cause, including but not limited to the following:

  • Disability and Disfigurement: If the accident results in a long-term disability or disfigurement, you deserve compensation for the impact it has on your life and self-image.
  • Loss of Consortium: Injuries can strain relationships, causing a loss of companionship and consortium. You have the right to seek compensation for this loss.
  • Past and Future Medical Bills
  • Lost Wages: If the bus accident caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes not only your regular wages but also performance bonuses, retirement contributions, promotions, and any decreased earning power resulting from your absence from work.
  • Past and Future Medical Bills: This includes ambulance transport, emergency room care, surgery, hospitalization, imaging services, in-home medical care, doctors' appointments, rehabilitation, and any other healthcare costs associated with your injuries sustained in the bus accident.
  • Out-of-Pocket Expense: Any expenses incurred as a direct result of the accident, such as transportation costs or home modifications, can be included in your claim.
  • Future Wage Loss: In cases where the injuries result in a reduced earning capacity, you can seek compensation for the future income you would have earned.
  • Mental and Emotional Distress: Traumatic experiences, memories, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping are all valid forms of emotional distress that can be compensated for.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering is available to cover the physical and emotional trauma experienced as a result of the bus accident. This includes any symptoms of trauma, injury-related pain, and the costs associated with seeking treatment for pain and suffering.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the accident has limited your ability to engage in activities you once enjoyed, you deserve compensation for this loss.
  • Life Care Expenses: In cases where ongoing care is necessary, such as rehabilitation or assisted living, the costs should be factored into your compensation.
  • Property Damage: If your vehicle or any other property was damaged as a result of the bus accident, you may be eligible to receive compensation for the repair or replacement of the damaged property.
  • Vocational Rehabilitation: If your injuries require you to undergo vocational rehabilitation to regain employment, the associated costs should be covered.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases where the negligent party's actions were particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment and deterrence.
  • Workers Compensation: If the accident occurred while you were working, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits in addition to seeking personal injury compensation.
  • Wrongful Death: In the unfortunate case of the loss of a loved one due to a bus accident, compensation may be available for various financial costs, grief, loss of consortium, and punitive damages.

Don’t let an insurance company decide what your personal injury claim is worth, contact us today. It’s our job to get you the money you’re truly owed.

Why Hire Bus Accident Lawyers Ferguson and Ferguson

The law offices of Ferguson and Ferguson take pride in giving each bus accident client individual and personal attention.

  • We are committed to excellent client service.
  • We care about our clients, and have patience.
  • Free phone consultation 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays
  • Free office consultation as late as 7 p.m. and Saturdays also
  • Locations near you
  • We answer all our client's calls or return them promptly.
  • We keep our clients informed of the status of their cases.
  • We make sure that our clients understand each step of their case.
  • We have great compassion for the physical, emotional, and financial problems that our clients suffer, and will do everything possible to get them through their difficult times.

If you or your loved one has been a victim of a bus accident, you should talk to one of our bus accident lawyers as soon as possible. We can start reviewing your claim to determine if you have a personal injury case. We understand how important it is for you to be compensated for your injuries.

Medical costs are incredibly high, even with health insurance, and it is nearly impossible for an individual to pay for prescriptions, hospital bills, and any additional care that is needed. The catastrophic damage that can be caused by a bus or transportation accident can also leave you unable to work. You should not have to worry and be left to deal with the financial burden of an accident that you did not cause. An attorney from our firm will fight to gain you compensation to cover the cost of pain and suffering that a bus accident can lead to. If you have been injured in a bus accident, or you have lost a loved one because of the negligence of the bus driver, we will hold the liable parties responsible. When we cannot settle a case involving a bus or mass transit accident, we have the resources and legal talent to take your case to court. Further, if you were injured while riding on a bus, we can help.

Bus Accident Questions and Answers

What damages can you recover from a wrongful death bus accident in Alabama?

In cases involving wrongful death resulting from a bus accident, compensation can be sought for various types of losses. We understand the immense pain and grief that follows the loss of a loved one, and we extend our deepest condolences. When it comes to seeking compensation, multiple aspects of loss can be considered. Firstly, there are the emotional damages caused by the tragic event, which can include severe grief, mental anguish, and the loss of companionship. Losing a family member can be emotionally distressing, and we acknowledge the value of these relationships. Financial costs are another crucial factor to be considered in terms of compensation. The sudden loss of a family member can lead to significant financial burdens, such as funeral expenses, medical bills, and other related costs. We believe it is important to recognize and address these economic hardships, as they can compound the emotional distress experienced by the family. Additionally, the concept of "loss of consortium" may come into play. Loss of consortium refers to the deprivation of the benefits and pleasures of a familial relationship as a result of the wrongful death. This includes the loss of love, support, guidance, and intimacy that the deceased person would have provided to their family members. While these losses are not easily quantifiable, they are nonetheless significant and deserve fair consideration for compensation. Wrongful death in Alabama is also a punitive damage issue. If the person dies in the accident, punitive damages are the only thing you can discover. In such cases, our commitment is to fight for our clients to secure compensation that encompasses all these losses. We understand the complexities involved in navigating the legal system and will work diligently to advocate for the rights and well-being of the affected families.

What are the potential medical treatments needed after a bus accident?

In the context of a bus accident, various potential medical treatments may be required. These treatments often encompass a range of services aimed at addressing injuries sustained during the accident. Some of these treatments may include ambulance transport, emergency room care, surgical procedures, hospitalization, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, in-home medical care, doctors' appointments, rehabilitation, and other related healthcare services. It is important to note that the costs associated with medical treatment for bus accidents can be substantial. Depending on the severity of the injuries and the required medical interventions, the expenses involved can quickly accumulate. This may pose financial challenges for individuals, as these costs could be beyond their means to afford. However, it is worth mentioning that there may be avenues to seek financial assistance in such cases. In some instances, the responsible parties for the accident could potentially be held liable. In such situations, they may be required to cover the healthcare expenses incurred by the injured individuals. This possibility could alleviate the burden of paying for these costs and provide much-needed financial relief. It is crucial to carefully assess the specific circumstances surrounding a bus accident and consult with relevant legal and healthcare professionals who can guide individuals through the process of understanding and pursuing potential compensation for medical treatments and costs associated with the incident.

What can Ferguson & Ferguson do to help?

At Ferguson and Ferguson, we take the responsibility of representing bus accident victims in Birmingham seriously. To assist you in your case, we will diligently undertake the following steps:
1. Investigating the Cause: Our team of lawyers will thoroughly investigate the cause of the bus accident to determine liability. This involves examining all relevant evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage.

2. Identifying Liable Parties: We will identify all parties who may be held accountable for the bus accident. This could include the bus driver, bus company, maintenance personnel, or other drivers involved in the incident.

3. Gathering and Preserving Evidence: We will work to gather and preserve crucial evidence, such as medical records, accident scene photographs, and any other documentation that supports your case. This ensures that the evidence remains intact and can be presented during settlement negotiations or trial.

4. Engaging Experts: When necessary, we will enlist the help of experts who can provide professional opinions and testimony to strengthen your case. These experts may include accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or economists to assess the extent of damages and losses.

5. Handling Case-Related Paperwork: Our attorneys will take care of all the necessary paperwork, including filing legal documents, sending legal notices, and ensuring compliance with all court deadlines. This streamlines the process for you, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

6. Communication Management: We will manage all communication related to your case, including correspondence with insurance companies, opposing counsel, and any other involved parties. Our goal is to protect your interests and ensure that you receive fair compensation.

7. Settlement Negotiations: We will strive to negotiate a settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages and losses. Our experienced negotiators will forcefully advocate on your behalf, seeking the best possible outcome.

8. Trial Representation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our skilled trial lawyers will present a compelling case in court, seeking a favorable judgment that provides you with the compensation you deserve. At Ferguson & Ferguson, our priority is to support bus accident victims in Birmingham by providing comprehensive legal assistance throughout the entire process. We understand the financial and emotional impact these accidents can have, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve the recovery you need.

What is the time limit to file a bus accident lawsuit in Alabama?

Time limits for filing specific types of lawsuits in Birmingham are set forth by Alabama’s statutes of limitations. According to Ala. Code § 6-2-38, you will generally have two years after your bus accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. If you do not file your case on time, you can miss out on your chance to recover monetary damages. Also, despite potentially having two years to file your lawsuit, you should begin working on your claim right away. You might also need to give notice of your intent to sue earlier than the actual filing deadline. Important evidence needed to support your claim can also begin to deteriorate or be misplaced, and people’s memory of the event will begin to fade. The quicker you begin building your case, the more efficiently you can gather the information needed to win.

Who are the possible parties to sue after a bus accident?

After a bus accident in Huntsville, several possible parties may be held liable and could be sued for damages. These parties include:
1. The Bus Driver: If the accident was caused by the negligence of the bus driver, they can be sued directly. However, it's important to consider whether the driver has the financial resources to cover all the damages.
2. The Bus Company or Huntsville Transit Authority may also be a party to sue after a bus accident. Bringing a lawsuit against a public entity like the Huntsville Transit Authority can be complex due to state immunity laws, but there are circumstances where such cases are allowed. Consulting with experienced attorneys is crucial to fully understand the legal options available.
3. Another Driver: In cases where other motorists' negligence leads to a bus accident, the negligent driver can be sued for the injuries caused. Even if the other driver is only partially responsible, they can still be held accountable for the damages.
4. The Seller or Manufacturer of a Defective Part: If the bus accident resulted from a defect in the vehicle's parts, the seller or manufacturer of the defective component can be sued. Cases involving defective products require a detailed assessment and may be legally complex, necessitating skilled legal representation.
5. A Maintenance Company: If negligence on the part of a maintenance company contributed to the bus accident, they could be held responsible for the damages incurred. Any negligence by mechanics working on the bus could make the maintenance company liable for the consequences of the collision.
These potential parties provide a range of options for individuals seeking legal recourse after a bus accident in Birmingham. Each case may involve different considerations and legal complexities, underscoring the importance of seeking guidance from experienced attorneys to navigate the process effectively.
"Time limits for filing specific types of lawsuits in Birmingham are set forth by Alabama’s statutes of limitations. According to Ala. Code § 6-2-38, you will generally have two years after your Max Transit bus accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. If you do not file your case on time, you can miss out on your chance to recover monetary damages.
Also, despite potentially having two years to file your lawsuit, you should begin working on your claim right away. You might also need to give notice of your intent to sue earlier than the actual filing deadline. Important evidence needed to support your claim can also begin to deteriorate or be misplaced, and people’s memory of the event will begin to fade. The quicker you begin building your case, the more efficiently you can gather the information needed to win.

2020 FMCSA Bus Statistics

Per a recent report from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration:
  • In 2020, there were 155 fatal crashes nationwide involving buses, a 34 percent decrease from the 234 bus crashes in 2019. This was the lowest number on record since 1975.
  • In 2020, 156 buses were involved in fatal crashes, down from 235 in 2019. There were 16 bus occupant fatalities in 2020, down from 35 in 2019.
  • Also in 2020, 176 total fatalities resulted from bus crashes, down from 261 in 2019.
  • From 2010 to 2020, intercity buses accounted for 11 percent of buses involved in fatal crashes. School buses accounted for 38 percent, and transit buses accounted for 35 percent.
  • In 2020, 46 school buses, nine intercity buses, and 86 transit buses were involved in fatal wrecks.
  • Also that year, there were 7,000 injury crashes involving buses, down from 13,000 in 2019
  • Also in 2020, 14,000 persons were injured in bus crashes, down from 25,000 in 2019.

Free Case Review

Deciding to hire a bus accident lawyer is an important choice that takes careful consideration. You must speak with an attorney as soon as possible after being involved in a bus accident. If you need a bus injury lawyer for your bus injury case, call or email us. The experienced Huntsville bus accident attorneys at Ferguson and Ferguson have more than 45 years of experience representing accident victims. Our consultations are free. We can visit you or your loved one at a hospital, residence, or workplace. Some lawyers, due to their lack of skill or resources, may not pursue all claims and compensation available to you. If you have been a victim of a bus accident in Huntsville, Alabama, do not hesitate to call our skilled and experienced personal injury attorneys for a free assessment of your situation. We are available seven days a week. Call now 1-800-752-1998 or 256-534-3435. We are here to help.

Huntsville Office Location:
303 Williams Avenue SW
Suite 321
Huntsville, AL 35801

Our personal injury attorneys serve every city and county in the State of Alabama and Nationwide.