Bus operator companies are required to carry hefty insurance policies to cover damages in the event of an accident. Sadly, injured persons do not always get fair settlements from these policy payouts. Insurance companies often search for ways to devalue a victim’s case and avoiding paying the compensation they deserve.
After a bus accident, before you contact the operator’s insurance company, it is wise to meet with an Oakwood bus accident lawyer. A dedicated attorney at Smith Hulsey could help determine the total compensation you may be entitled to and fight for your rights.
There are several significant differences between bus accidents and common car accidents. Perhaps the most obvious is the size of the vehicles involved—a commuter car is likely to take far more damage from a collision with a bus than with another vehicle its size. Another unique aspect is that buses can carry more people than a standard vehicle, and in most cities, they do not have seat belts. These hazards contribute to the fact that bus accidents are considered more dangerous.
Accidents involving public transportation also differ from other types of traffic crashes because the state, rather than the bus driver, is typically responsible for damages. For this reason, operators are required to have extensive insurance policies. Despite this, insurance companies will often try to pay as little as possible, making it crucial for injured victims to consult an Oakwood bus accident attorney.
Bus accident injuries can be life-altering and even fatal, which is why it is essential for those injured to seek the full compensation they may qualify for. Common injuries stemming from bus collisions include:
A skilled lawyer in the area could advise bus accident victims on filing for compensation to cover their injuries and associated losses.
There is only a six-month statute of limitations for public transit accident claims in Georgia, so those who intend to seek damages should seek legal counsel as soon as possible. The claim should include a thorough and accurate accident report that lists details such as time, place, number of vehicles involved, the at-fault party (or parties), and how the accident occurred. It should also contain the claimant’s name and address.
Our experienced bus accident attorneys could help Oakwood residents navigate the claims process. Although each case is different, there are several standard steps involved in recovering damages for a bus crash.
The initial investigation period is crucial for building a solid case in the plaintiff’s favor. A bus accident lawyer could compile evidence that proves the opposing party was at fault via witness testimony, medical records that corroborate the plaintiff’s injuries, and anything else that could help validate the claimed damages.
Once the lawyer has enough evidence, the next step is to start building a case that strongly backs the claims made against the bus operating company. An experienced attorney could work to prove the injured party’s entitlement to compensation.
After they build the case, the attorney can begin negotiating for a fair settlement on behalf of their client. The negotiation process could take months or, in some cases, years. The time it takes to settle varies based on how many people were injured, the damages they are seeking, whether or not the case goes to litigation, and other factors.
If you sustained injuries from a bus accident, or if you have a loved one who was killed in a bus accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation. However, there is limited time to bring a claim for the damages you deserve. Reach out to an Oakwood bus accident lawyer at Smith Hulsey today to discuss your case. Give us a call and schedule your consultation as soon as possible.
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