Your Atlanta Bus Accident Attorney

Bus Accident Attorney in Atlanta

Recoverable Damages in a Bus Accident Claim

Like other personal injury cases, bus accident victims can recover financial compensation for emotional and physical damages, such as:

• Medical bills and ongoing healthcare expenses, including travel and lodging expenses

• Lost wages

• Loss of earning ability

• Pain and suffering of emotional, mental, and physical trauma

• Property damages

• Punitive damages if the bus driver acted maliciously

Calculating these damages may not be easy, especially non-tangible ones. An Atlanta bus accident lawyer will ensure your damages, including future expenses, are considered and provide a specific dollar amount for your claim.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit Against a Public Transport Entity

If you’re involved in a private bus or tour bus accident, filing a claim against the tour company or bus operator is similar to other personal injury cases.

However, being injured in a public or school bus accident means taking extra steps to start your case. Public transport companies and workers are protected by strict government liability rules that can affect your ability to file a claim against them.

There are also different deadlines depending on the governmental entity you’re filing against. These additional procedures are just one reason why speaking with reliable Atlanta bus accident attorneys as soon as possible is crucial.

The Statute of Limitations for Atlanta Bus Accidents

Filing your claim on time is crucial if you are a bus accident victim. OCGA § 9-3-33 provides that the statute of limitation for personal injury, including bus accidents, is two years.

However, there are exceptions. Where your accident involves a state or county-operated bus, you only have 12 months to file your claim. If you are filing against a municipality transport authority, you must file your lawsuit within six months.

Working with our Atlanta bus accident attorneys at the Dressie Law Firm can ensure your claim is filed on time.

Why Bus Accident Claims Are Complex

Bus accident cases often involve multiple parties and victims, which may make it harder to determine liability. Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident scene is crucial to gather evidence and identify the liable parties.

Potential at-fault parties in a bus accident can include:

• Bus operators: Where the bus driver’s actions, such as DUI or speeding, caused the accident, they could be held liable.

• Bus Companies: A bus company trains bus drivers and maintains their buses in the best conditions. If the accident is directly caused by the company’s failure to adhere to the regulations, it could be held liable for your bus accident injuries.

• Government Agencies: A government agency, such as the Department of Transportation, may be found responsible for the accident if it is caused by their failure to maintain roads or place proper signage.

• Third-Party Driver: Bus accidents may involve more than two vehicles. If a third-party driver violated traffic laws and the bus driver failed to avoid the accident because they were speeding, both parties may be liable.

• Bus Manufacturers: If manufacturing defects and faulty parts caused the accident, you must file against the bus manufacturer.

Experienced bus accident lawyers at the Dressie Law Firm can investigate your case and help you hold all liable parties accountable for your injuries.

Why You Need an Experienced Bus Accident Attorney

To ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses, you need an experienced bus accident attorney. Here are some reasons why:

1. Knowledge and Expertise

Bus accident cases involve different laws and regulations than other motor vehicle accidents. An experienced attorney is well-versed in these laws and has the expertise to navigate them effectively. They can also gather evidence, investigate the accident, and build a strong case on your behalf.

2. Determining Liability

Determining liability in a bus accident can be challenging, as multiple parties may be involved, and various factors to consider. If applicable, an experienced attorney can help identify all responsible parties, including the bus company, driver, maintenance crew, and government entity. They will also know how to hold them accountable for their actions.

3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses and will try to minimize liability in a bus accident case. They may offer you a quick settlement that does not cover all your losses. An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate with insurance companies and can help you get the compensation you deserve.

4. Maximizing Compensation

An experienced attorney knows the damages you can claim in a bus accident case, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. They will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your losses.

5. Representing You in Court

While most personal injury cases are settled outside of court, sometimes going to trial is necessary to get fair compensation. An experienced attorney will be prepared to represent you in court and fight for your rights if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

6. Peace of Mind

Dealing with the aftermath of a bus accident can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Having an experienced attorney by your side can provide peace of mind as they handle all legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and well-being.