Charter buses are a popular means of transport in New York State and other regions across the country. These vehicles often carry about 50 passengers, which makes them preferable for tours and field trips. Companies that own the buses are responsible for ensuring the passengers are safe when traveling. The operators also follow various federal rules that enhance safety and hold them accountable in case of an accident.
Despite these safety regulations, negligence by various parties can still lead to a charter bus accident. These collisions are often dangerous due to the size and weight of the buses, meaning victims are likely to suffer more severe injuries compared to those from other auto accidents.
If you got injured in such an accident, you might face treatment expenses and other losses. However, you may qualify to recover these damages from the party at fault by filing a compensation claim. Contact the office of Morelli Law Firm today at (212) 751-9800 to consult a member of our team about your case.
Charter Bus Accidents Can Be More Dangerous than Car Accidents
Charter buses can vary in size, but even smaller ones are relatively heavier than most passenger cars. The damage to another vehicle can be extensive if the collision occurred when the bus was traveling at high speed. These busses may also be more likely to roll over during an accident and cause severe injuries.
Most charter buses travel long distances, and the driver may not have a chance to ensure that passengers wear seat belts throughout the journey. The general lack of safety features on these vehicles can lead passengers to face severe injuries as well. Whether you were a passenger on the bus or driving another vehicle when the bus hit you, you have the right to seek compensation.
Common Causes of Charter Bus Accidents
Distracted driving is one of the most significant causes of road accidents. For example, the driver may become distracted by the passengers if there is a loud conversation or commotion on the bus. This distraction can cause the bus driver to take their mind or eyes off the road and collide with other vehicles, veer off the road, or lose control. Other common causes of charter bus accidents include the following:
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Failure to observe traffic light signals
- Switching lanes without using indicator lights
- Overloading the bus with luggage or passengers
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Defective parts, such as faulty headlights
A collision can also occur due to reasons that are beyond the driver’s control. For example, an oil spill on the road can reduce tire grip and make it challenging to control a vehicle. Furthermore, some weather conditions like snowing and fog reduce road visibility and increase the possibility of crashing.
If you got injured in a charter bus accident, you might have the ability to secure compensation. Reach out to a Morelli Law Firm for support. Call (212) 751-9800 and speak with a member of our firm to determine if you can recover damages.
Buffalo Charter Bus Accident Lawyer Near Me 877-751-9800
Types of Injuries that a Charter Bus Accident Can Cause
People involved in a bus accident may suffer injuries that differ in severity depending on several factors. For example, accidents that involve a rollover are likely to cause more harm compared to those that do not. Failure to wear a safety belt can also increase the severity of the damage. The following are some of the injuries that a charter bus accident can cause:
- Concussions
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Spinal injury
- Whiplash
Treating injuries from a bus crash can be costly, so it can help to seek reimbursement from the liable party. An insurance company will need a medical report indicating that the accident caused these injuries, and receipts showing the costs of treatment to process a settlement claim. A Buffalo charter bus accident lawyer can help you collect the necessary proof, determine the total cost of treatment, and file the claim.
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) requires vehicles that carry passengers from one state to another to have at least the minimum amount of insurance allowed. If you suffered injuries from a charter bus accident and can prove that the driver or company was responsible, you may benefit from this insurance.
Since proving negligence and liability is a complex process, you may find it hard to file a claim on your own. A Buffalo charter bus accident lawyer from our firm has the skills needed to identify the cause of an accident and analyze various details to prove that another party was at fault.
A lawyer can assess the damages you suffered and estimate the cost of your injuries and emotional suffering. They will then present the documents needed to support a settlement claim to the insurance adjusters. Examples of damages that the insurance company may cover include the following:
- Cost of emergency care treatment and physical therapy
- Purchase of prescription drugs
- Treatment of mental health issues that may arise after the accident
- Expenses of transportation to treatment centers
- Lost income
Sometimes, accidents can cause injuries that may lead to physical disfigurement and disability. In such a case, compensation can also include the cost of purchasing adaptive equipment, like crutches, and compensation for the income the victim is likely to lose due to the disability. These serious injuries may also warrant a personal injury lawsuit rather than an insurance claim.
Contact Morelli Law Firm to Consult About a Charter Bus Accident Case
Recovering the damages suffered in a charter bus collision can help accident victims handle the financial strain of their injuries and losses. At Morelli Law Firm, we provide the legal guidance and support needed when pursuing compensation from a charter bus company.
Our lawyers can represent you in settlement meetings, allowing you more time for healing. We will also communicate with the relevant insurance company and provide regular updates on your case. If you or a loved one suffered injuries from such an accident, contact Morelli Law Firm at (212) 751-9800 for a case evaluation.