Hit By a Bus

Buses are large and heavy vehicles. Due to their significant mass, when a bus is involved in a collision, the impact can be much greater than that of a smaller vehicle. This can lead to more severe damage and injuries.

My car was hit by a bus. What do I do?

Here are some immediate actions you should take if your car got hit by a bus: 

• Gather evidence: If you were driving a car hit by a bus, document the crash scene. Take photographs of the vehicles' positions, the damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the bus driver and gather witness statements.
• Call the police: Contact the police to report the crash. An official accident report is vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Notify your insurance company as well and follow their guidance for filing a claim.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine after being hit by a bus, consider seeking medical attention. Injuries such as whiplash or internal damage may not present symptoms immediately. Medical records will serve as important documentation for any legal claims.

Even if your bus accident involved a vehicle owned and operated by a municipality, you may still take legal action against the government agency. Claims against city or government entities often have specific procedures and shorter deadlines, which can vary by state. For example, some places require a notice of claim to be filed before you can sue the city.

A notice of claim is a critical legal document required when filing a personal injury claim against a government agency. This notice serves as a formal declaration of your intention to seek damages for your injuries from the government entity responsible for your harm.

When filing a notice of claim, you’ll need to provide the following details: 

• Your name and contact details.
• The date, time, and location of the bus accident. 
• A description of what happened and how the government entity may be at fault.
• Injuries you sustained and the type of damages you’re pursuing.

Like all drivers, bus drivers have an obligation to watch out for pedestrians. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. They have no physical protection in the event of a collision, especially with a large vehicle such as a bus. Bus drivers must also check blind spots for pedestrians, especially when turning or reversing.

If you’re a pedestrian hit by a bus, you have the right to take legal action against the driver who hit you. This can be done through a pedestrian accident claim. To successfully pursue such a claim, you should take immediate action at the crash scene, if you’re able to.

That includes taking pictures of your injuries and any damage to your belongings. You should also note the bus number, bus driver’s details, and name of the bus company or municipal agency. You’ll also need to speak to an experienced attorney who is skilled at investigating and handling pedestrian accident claims.

Many factors influence the hit by bus settlements, making it challenging to provide a precise figure. An attorney will need to place an accurate value on your claim. 

The factors affecting settlement amounts include:

• Extent of injuries: The severity of your injuries plays a substantial role in determining the settlement. More severe injuries often lead to higher compensation.
• Medical expenses: The cost of medical treatment, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, is a significant factor in settlement calculations.
• Property damage: The extent of damage to your vehicle and personal property will also affect your settlement.
• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and diminished quality of life, are considered in settlement negotiations.
• Insurance coverage: The insurance policies of the at-fault party, whether it's a private bus company or a government entity, impact the available compensation.

Does a not-at-fault accident affect insurance?

A not-at-fault bus accident can potentially affect your insurance. But that often depends on your insurance company’s policies, location and the specifics of the crash. Additionally, if you’ve been involved in several crashes within a short period of time, your insurer may view you as a higher risk, even if you were not at fault.

It’s important to check with your insurance provider to learn more about their policies. Also, check your state’s laws regarding no-fault bus accidents. If you’re not sure what to expect, consult with an experienced bus accident lawyer. They may be able to assess your losses and help you recover from those damages.

If you were hit by a bus, there’s too much at stake to handle your claim alone. You could be up against the top bus companies or a government agency. These cases are often highly complex and require the help of an experienced Law.com Premier Attorney.

Our verified bus accident lawyers will investigate your bus crash, determine how much money you’re eligible for, and fight to recover the full extent of your damages. To find out how, schedule a free consultation with a lawyer in your area.

You won’t have to pay any lawyer fees upfront. That’s because Premier Attorneys work on a contingency fee basis and only get paid if they win your case.