Maison Law Accident and Injury Lawyers of Modesto helps anyone that’s been hurt in an accident across the city. There’s any number of different kinds of accidents you could be in, even ones involving a bus. Whether it’s a city bus, school bus, or even a private charter bus, accidents with these vehicles can leave you with serious damages. Our team can help you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more.
Should You Get a Lawyer?
Being in a bus accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with serious injuries. While you don’t have to get a lawyer, the more complicated things are for you, the more help you’ll probably need. Our team is here to help you through this tough time. Here’s why you should consider getting a lawyer if you’ve been in a bus accident:
- Serious injuries – Bus accidents can cause major injuries. Our lawyers help you get the money you need for medical bills and other costs.
- Liability issues – Figuring out who’s at fault in a bus accident can be confusing. Our lawyers will handle the investigation and sort out the details.
- Understanding your rights – You need to know your rights after an accident. Our lawyers can explain what you’re entitled to and make sure you’re treated fairly.
- Handling claims – Dealing with insurance and paperwork can be stressful. Our lawyers will manage the claims process and work to get you a fair settlement. you
In short, if you’ve been in a bus accident in Modesto, having our lawyers on your side can make a big difference. We’re here to help you get through the process and focus on your recovery.
What Damages Can You Get in a Modesto Bus Accident Claim?
You might not ride a bus every day, but that doesn’t mean you don’t see one on your way to work. Moreover, your child might ride a school bus everyday, or you might have someone you care about whose only means of transportation is a Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority (StanRTA) bus. This means that you very well might be involved in an accident in one way or another.
While it can be hard to think about, you have certain legal options in this situation. Namely, you have the right to file an injury claim to recover “damages.”
Whether you decide to file an insurance claim outside of court or a personal injury lawsuit, you can potentially get the following damages, depending on the factors surrounding your particular accident:
- Medical expenses – These cover both current and future costs for healthcare related to your injuries.
- Property damage – If you were in your own car, this includes repairs or replacement of your vehicle or any other damaged property.
- Emotional distress – These damages cover any costs relating to the psychological impact from the accident, like anxiety or PTSD.
- Pain and suffering – This covers financial support for the physical and mental pain resulting from your injuries.
- Loss of quality of life – This covers any financial support for the reduction in your enjoyment of life due to the accident’s impact on your daily activities.
- Wrongful death expenses – If the accident was fatal, damages can include funeral costs and loss of financial support.
While these damages can provide significant financial support, the settlement amount is ultimately going to result from the responsible party’s insurance company, who’s overall goal is typically to minimize payouts. That’s why it’s crucial to follow the right steps after the accident to protect your claim. Our team can guide you through this process and help you pursue the damages you need. But there’s one big question, and that revolves around who actually has to pay for your damages?
Who Pays For Your Damages After a Bus Accident in Modesto?
The question of who pays for your damages after a bus accident in Modesto is very important, but can sometimes be elusive given that there’s usually a lot of different people involved. Legally speaking, buses are held to the same liability standards as any other vehicle. If a bus driver’s negligence causes an accident, both the driver and the bus company can be held responsible for the damages.
This involves proving negligence, which means showing that the:
- Bus driver or other responsible party had a duty to act in a reasonably safe manner. They failed in this duty, thus causing the accident in question that resulted in your injuries or other losses.
Again, what makes a bus accident difficult isn’t just establishing negligence, it’s the fact that a number of different people are involved in a typical accident. However, most bus accidents are going to involve the driver and their employer in one way or another. But others might share liability, like:
- Manufacturers – If the bus had faulty parts or safety gear, the company that made them could be responsible.
- Bus leasing companies – If the bus was rented out and had issues, the company that leased it might be liable.
- Distracting passengers – If someone on the bus distracted the driver, they could share responsibility.
- Maintenance workers – If the bus wasn’t properly maintained, the people responsible for its upkeep could be held accountable.
- Road maintenance agencies – If bad road conditions played a role, the local government might be partly to blame.
- Other drivers – If another driver’s reckless actions caused the crash, they could also be held liable.
Figuring out who’s at fault is key because it determines who has to pay for your damages. But it’s also up to you to put together a strong claim. After a bus accident, this means taking the right steps to address things.
What Can You Do to Strengthen Your Bus Accident Claim in Modesto?
Dealing with the aftermath of a bus accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’re injured. Whether you were driving your car, walking as a pedestrian, or riding the bus itself, gathering the necessary information for a claim can be tough. However, if you’re able, taking these steps can significantly strengthen your claim:
- Get medical care – Call 911 for an ambulance right away, even if you think you’re fine. Getting a full medical check-up as soon as possible ensures your injuries are properly documented, which is crucial for your claim.
- Report the accident to police – Call the Modesto Police Department or the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department to handle the scene and create an official accident report. This report will have information you need to start your claim. Additionally, inform the bus company about the accident so they can take necessary actions.
- Start gathering evidence – If you’re able, gather contact and insurance information from the bus driver and others involved. Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries to support your case.
- Preserve your evidence and keep good records – Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, accident-related expenses, and any communications with insurance companies. These documents are essential for building a strong claim.
- Be careful with any statements you make – Avoid making statements or signing anything without consulting our team first. Insurance companies may try to use your words to reduce their payout. The same caution applies to social media posts or public comments about the accident.
You obviously never want to be involved in a bus accident, but when it does happen, you have to start thinking about your legal options. This means taking these above steps to the extent that you’re able. This will help you lay a solid foundation for your claim.
Why Do Bus Accidents Happen in Modesto?
There’s certain factors that are present in any bus accident in Modesto, much like other vehicle accidents. Namely, it’s the actions–or inactions–of a driver that cause the accident. But as with liability, there’s a lot of potential scenarios involved that can lead to a bus accident:
- Busy areas – Crowded streets and bus stops can make accidents more likely, especially if people aren’t paying attention.
- Tired drivers – Bus drivers who are tired from long hours might not react quickly, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distractions – Things like using a phone, eating, or talking to passengers can distract the driver from the road.
- Aggressive driving – Speeding or tailgating can lead to accidents, especially in heavy traffic.
- Inexperienced drivers – Drivers who don’t have the right training or experience may have trouble driving buses safely.
- Poor maintenance – If buses aren’t regularly checked and repaired, mechanical issues can cause accidents.
- Bad roads – Potholes and uneven roads in Modesto can cause accidents, especially if drivers aren’t careful.
Being involved in a bus accident in Modesto can lead to serious injuries, such as head injuries ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries that may cause long-term disabilities or paralysis, neck injuries like whiplash, broken bones, cuts from glass and metal, and deep tissue or internal injuries that might not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening if untreated. That’s what makes the legal process so important to your recovery, and with that, you can turn to our team for guidance and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file an injury claim if I’m a passenger on the bus?
Yes. Your rights don’t change in that situation. If the bus driver was negligent and caused an accident while you’re riding the bus or there was a problem with the equipment or parts on the bus, you can file an injury claim as a passenger.
Who do I file a claim against if I’m hurt by a StanRTA bus?
You would file your claim against Stanislaus County, since they own and operate the buses.
Is there a time limit on bus accident claims?
Yes. In Modesto and throughout California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file.
Contact Our Modesto Bus Accident Lawyers For a Free Consultation
You obviously don’t expect to be hurt when you get on a bus or are in traffic with one in Modesto. But given that they’re so much larger and more difficult to control, these accidents are unfortunately common. This can leave you facing questions about your health and financial stability. Our team at Maison Law Accident and Injury Lawyers of Modesto, we understand what you’re going through and can help you. We’ll guide you through the legal process and help you get the support you need. Contact us today for a free consultation.