After a bus accident, it is common for people to feel overwhelmed and confused. Many things need to be taken care of, from getting your medical treatment to dealing with the insurance company.
The good news is that you are not alone. There are experienced bus accident lawyers who can help you with every step of the process and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
This post will explain your rights after a bus accident injury in California. We will also provide tips on what to do if you are involved in an accident.
The Bus Driver’s Responsibility
The first thing you need to know is that, in California, bus drivers are held to a higher standard than other drivers. This is because buses are considered common carriers. Common carriers must exercise the highest degree of care to ensure the safety of their passengers.
This means that bus drivers must be extra careful when driving. They must follow all traffic laws, drive defensively, and always pay attention to the road. If a bus driver fails to exercise this degree of care and an accident occurs, they can be held liable for their passengers’ injuries.
Your Rights as a Passenger
As a passenger on a bus, you have certain rights that are protected by law. These rights include the right to:
- Safe transportation: Bus drivers and companies are responsible for providing safe transportation. This means that buses must be in good condition and regularly maintained. Drivers must also be adequately trained and licensed.
- Compensation for injuries: If you are injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages.
- Protection from assault: Assault is a serious crime, and you have the right to be protected while riding a bus.
A bus accident can be a traumatic experience. But you can protect your rights by knowing the law and working with an experienced bus accident lawyer.
- The Statute of Limitations
It is essential to know that there is a time limit for filing a bus accident injury claim in California. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, is usually two years from the date of the accident.
This may seem like a long time but starting the claims process as soon as possible is essential. This is because it can take time to gather all the evidence and build a strong case. If you wait too long, you may miss the deadline, and your claim will be denied.
How to Proceed with a Bus Accident Injury Claim?
If you have been injured in a bus accident, you should first seek medical treatment. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is essential to get examined by a doctor. This is because some injuries, such as concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
Once you have received medical treatment, you should contact an experienced bus accident lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
Most bus accident lawyers offer free initial consultations. This means you can speak to a lawyer without risk or obligation.
Getting Help from a Bus Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a bus accident, it is essential to seek legal help as soon as possible. An experienced bus accident lawyer will know how to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case. They will also be familiar with the California bus accident laws and the statute of limitations.
Most importantly, a bus accident injury lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
If you have been injured in a bus accident, contact the experienced bus accident lawyers San Gabriel Valley Personal Injury Attorneys At (626) 602-9483 today. We will provide a free consultation and answer any questions you have about your case.