Bus Accident Injuries

It’s not only people inside the bus that can get hurt.

Bus accidents in Illinois happen more frequently than you might think. A majority of buses operate in areas that are busy and have several different types of traffic. People inside the bus, as well as other drivers, passengers in other cars, bicyclists and pedestrians can all be injured during an accident involving a bus.

If you’ve encountered an injury in an accident that involved a bus, call us. Bus accidents can be complex. Get the guidance you need for a proper recovery.
Call Our Bus Accident Attorneys Today

Steps to Take After A Bus Accident

Protecting yourself after a bus accident is similar to any other auto accident. You can find the steps you need to take to protect yourself in our Auto Accident checklist here –

What to do After an Auto Accident

It’s worth noting that if you have been injured in a bus accident you may need to contact the owner or organization of the bus separately. An accident lawyer can help you find the right people to contact.

Other Automotive Related Resources

Bus accidents can often times be very similar to other automotive related lawsuit issues. Find more info for what you type of case you might have by clicking the link.

Bus Accidents Involving Pedestrians Are Most Severe

Bicyclists and pedestrians who are hit by a bus often suffer the most severe injuries. They are not confined in a space and somewhat protected like in a vehicle. They can be thrown into traffic or be trapped under the bus. Unfortunately, we’ve also seen a few fatal accidents.

Bus & Pedestrians Cases Can Be Complex

Bus accidents are different from other types of vehicle accidents. Oftentimes buses are owned by government agencies and have multiple insurance agencies. Navigating state or federal claims, specific laws regarding public transportation, and working with several agencies at once can get complicated.

Working with a law firm with experience in such lawsuits can increase your chances of a better outcome, and save you much agony, headaches and worry.
Contact our Bus Accident Lawyers Today

Suing After a Bus Accident

Each accident is different. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident the causes of the accident and the parties responsible can vary. Sometimes filing a lawsuit isn’t straightforward and direct. Some lawsuits can include several different responsible parties.

Parties Responsible for a Bus Accident

Negligent automobile drivers – Many bus accidents are caused by the negligence of another driver. Drivers who speed, rush through red lights, tailgate, or fail to yield the right of way and cause a crash can be held responsible.
Negligent bus drivers – Buses have a responsibility to keep the passengers safe. Drivers who are distracted while driving, speed, tailgate can be held responsible in a bus accident.
Negligent bus companies – if a company fails to maintain a bus properly and this results in a crash – the bus company can be held responsible. A common example of bus company negligence is due to negligent brake maintenance. A bus with poorly working brakes may not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident with a bicyclist, pedestrian, or another vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Accidents in Illinois

If I Am Injured or a Loved One is Killed While a Passenger on a Bus, Can I Sue for My Damages?

Depending on the facts and circumstances of each case, the operator of the bus, whether publicly or privately owned, can be held responsible as well as the bus company, other drivers, and the manufacturer of defective bus parts. Keep in mind that the bus company may be a better financial position than others to pay for your injuries.

A case like this can involve areas of law that intersect between Automotive Accident Law and Wrongful Death Law.

As a Bus Passenger, is Filing a Lawsuit Any Different Than Other Accidents?

Yes, as a bus passenger, you have the right to special protections that other people do not have, such as a pedestrian or a driver of a vehicle. A bus is considered a “common carrier,” which means the bus company owes a passenger the utmost duty of care to avoid accidents. This means that a bus company must take reasonable measures to avoid even the slightest negligence.

When Does the Special Duty of Care Begin and End?

The special duty of care starts while you are at a bus stop should it be created in a dangerous way. Moreover, it certainly begins when you board the bus. This duty continues until you are safely off of the bus and on the curb of the roadway. Keep in mind that if a bus drops you off at a location that isn’t safe, such as the middle of the road, the bus company and driver have violated their duty of care.

What Damages Am I Entitled to Receive in an Illinois Bus Accident Case?

If you were involved in a bus accident, you may be able to recover damages that include present and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income. If you had a loved one that was killed in a bus accident, and you are the next of kin or spouse of the decedent, you may be entitled to the following, which include funeral and burial expenses, grief, sorrow and mental suffering, and loss of consortium.

Do I Need an Attorney to Represent Me in My Illinois Bus Accident Case?

While you are not required to hire an attorney, it is highly recommended that you work with one who can answer all of your questions, guide you through the legal process, and advise you of all your legal rights and options. Only a skilled Illinois bus accident lawyer can fight hard for you to receive the compensation you deserve.

Will My Case Settle?

While an attorney cannot predict the results in your case, it is important to understand that the majority of cases settle out of court. It is important to speak with an attorney to better understand your legal options in this regard.

How Our Bus Accident Lawyers Can Help

Bus litigation involves a variety of different laws and regulations above and beyond just standard motor vehicle related car accident litigation. There are also several different types of people who can be injured, and each can have different requirements and strategies to successfully win a case.

We’ll fight for your rights and the best possible outcome, this includes:

Ensuring you understand your rights and your case 100%. No questions left unasked.
We’ll investigate each incident and prepare as if it will go to trial. This is the most thorough form of litigation we can do.
Ensure that you are getting all of your N0-Fault insurance claim, even if you don’t carry insurance personally.
Work to get you the best possible outcome at the fastest time possible. Including any future losses that aren’t recognized at that time.
Working Anywhere in Illinois.

For more information about how the Rockford Personal Injury may be able to help you or your family, please call, text, or email us directly 24/7/365 at (815) 964-8303.

Rockford Bus Accident Lawyers