A collision with a bus is terrifying and can cause severe harm and extensive losses. Busy drivers and personnel are required to adhere to all federal regulations and safety protocols, and when they don’t, they can cause an accident. If you have been the unfortunate victim of one of these accidents, consult a bus accident lawyer in Chicago without delay.
Therman Law has more than three decades of experience fighting for victims of accidents. Our team is equipped to handle any situation and aggressively negotiate for a better outcome.
A Chicago personal injury lawyer is there when you need them the most and will provide the advocacy and guidance you need throughout the ups and downs of your case.
Bus Accidents are Preventable and Can Cause Extensive Damage
Buses have the potential to cause immense harm and devastation in an accident. Their size and weight alone can amplify the force of impact and the type of injuries that victims may sustain.
Negligence is often the reason why these collisions happen, many of which are preventable. Some common factors that contribute to these accidents include:
- Distraction
- Fatigue
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Drug or alcohol impairment
- Bad weather and road conditions
- Poor training
- Poor bus maintenance
- Defective parts
These factors can prevent bus drivers from avoiding hazards and reduce the amount of time they have to react. Bus accidents can hurt both passengers and motorists. Victims may suffer injuries like whiplash, broken bones, soft tissue damage, head, neck and spine injuries, and so much more.
Some victims may suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries, which have far-reaching implications for individuals and families.
What to Do After You Have Been Involved in a Bus Accident
After a bus accident, you’ll likely be in shock and pain from your injuries. It’s important to protect yourself by seeking medical attention. Some injuries may be delayed or internal, so it’s important that doctors run the proper tests to get a clear picture of your condition. You will also need to keep thorough records of your care and expenses to document your treatment and submit to the insurance company.
There are also other important steps to take after an accident to bolster your case and ensure you have sufficient evidence. A police report should be filed to officially document the accident.
Depending on your injuries, you should also exchange insurance information at the scene of the accident with all applicable parties. Take photos and get witness statements as well to demonstrate what happened.
Before filing a claim, you should talk with a lawyer to understand your legal options and potential personal injury case difficulties. For example, bus companies will often look out for themselves, and insurance companies will try to pay you as little as possible. A lawyer can make sure you have a strong case, have plenty of evidence, and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
A Chicago Bus Accident Attorney Helps You Determine Who is at Fault for the Accident
Determining liability in a bus accident case can be far more challenging than in a car accident. This is because there are more parties involved and regulations that must be followed in order for buses to operate. Bus drivers, bus companies, and maintenance technicians can all contribute to these collisions. However, identifying who is at fault can be confusing and require a lawyer’s help.
A lawyer will investigate the accident, identify the at-fault party, and gather evidence. They will demonstrate the party’s duty to maintain safety, their negligent actions, and how these caused your injuries. The at-fault party is then obligated to pay for the damages they caused.
Your lawyer will guide you through this process so you can recover the losses you’ve suffered. Therman Law has extensive experience establishing negligence in personal injury cases and making sure that negligent parties are held accountable for their actions and for not taking greater care to prevent accidents. Once their fault has been established, your case can progress toward settlement.
Many of Your Losses May Be Included in a Bus Accident Settlement in Chicago
When you’re wondering what expenses you can claim in an injury case, it is important to consult an experienced bus accident attorney in Chicago.
They will calculate the value of each loss, both current and future expenses, and determine how much your case is worth overall. Some of the losses covered by your settlement may include the following:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Loss of income or earning potential
- Costs to repair or replace your vehicles and personal belongings
- Final medical expenses, funeral, and burial expenses
- Decreased quality of life
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Anxiety, depression, and PTSD
- Loss of consortium or companionship
Each settlement is unique. Recoverable losses depend on the extent of your injuries, the severity of your losses, and any shared fault. However, by hiring a lawyer, you can receive a higher settlement that will be as comprehensive as possible.
Pursue Compensation Before the Statute of Limitations Expires
To recover the compensation you deserve, you first must submit a claim before the statute of limitations expires. In Illinois, bus accident victims are allowed two years to file a claim before being barred from recovery, per 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Your lawyer will determine how much time you have left to take legal action and what subsequent options you have.
Consult Therman Law Today
Therman Law works diligently to get you the results you seek and deserve after an accident. We are committed to your recovery and a brighter future.
As such, we fight aggressively to win your case and make sure you’re not taken advantage of by bus or insurance companies. To talk with a Chicago bus accident lawyer about your case, contact our team today to schedule a free case evaluation.
