Bus accidents might not be the most common type of accident, but they often leave victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected financial burdens. The aftermath can be overwhelming, especially when victims try to navigate the legal complexities on their own. At Berg Injury Lawyers, our dedicated team of Fresno bus accident attorneys is here to guide you through the process, fight for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation after a crash on or with a Fresno Area Express (FAX) vehicle.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Fresno
Bus accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, often involving multiple parties and complex legal considerations. Understanding the common causes is crucial in determining liability and pursuing a successful claim.
- Bus Driver Negligence: This can include speeding, distracted driving, fatigued driving, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Poor Bus Maintenance or Mechanical Failures: Inadequate maintenance or mechanical defects, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can contribute to accidents.
- Dangerous Road Conditions or Construction Zones: Poorly maintained roads, inclement weather, or hazardous construction zones can increase the risk of bus accidents.
- Negligent Actions of Other Drivers or Pedestrians: Others’ reckless driving, failure to yield, or jaywalking can lead to collisions with buses.
Determining the exact cause of a bus accident requires a thorough investigation, which our experienced team at Berg Injury Lawyers is well-prepared to take on. We’ll meticulously analyze the evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bus Accidents
Bus accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Victims may suffer from:
- Head and Brain Injuries: These include concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and skull fractures, which can have long-lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional consequences.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a person’s mobility and quality of life.
- Broken Bones, Fractures, and Dislocations: The force of a bus accident can cause severe bone injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries and Organ Damage: Internal bleeding or organ damage can be life-threatening and necessitate immediate medical attention, despite being invisible.
- Lacerations, Burns, and Other Traumatic Injuries: Victims may also sustain cuts, burns, or other serious injuries that require medical treatment and can leave lasting scars.
It’s essential to recognize that bus accident injuries often lead to long-term complications and necessitate extensive rehabilitation. At Berg Injury Lawyers, we’re committed to helping you obtain the compensation you need to cover not only immediate medical expenses but also the ongoing costs of rehabilitation and future care needs.
Liability in Bus Accident Cases
Determining liability in bus accident cases can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Our Fresno bus accident lawyers have extensive experience identifying all potentially liable parties and holding them accountable for their negligence.
- Bus Driver Negligence or Reckless Driving: If the bus driver’s actions, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, contributed to the accident, they may be held liable.
- Negligent Hiring Practices or Insufficient Training by the Bus Company: If the bus company failed to properly screen, train, or supervise its drivers, it may also be held responsible for its drivers’ actions.
- Bus Manufacturers or Parts Suppliers in Cases of Defective Equipment: If a defective part or manufacturing flaw in the bus caused the accident, the manufacturer or supplier may be liable for the resulting injuries.
Investigating bus accident claims and gathering evidence is crucial in establishing liability and building a strong case. This may involve obtaining accident reports, reviewing maintenance logs, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts.
Compensation for Fresno Bus Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for lost wages and inability to earn as much in the future.
- Pain and Suffering, Emotional Distress, and Loss of Quality of Life: Bus accidents can cause significant physical and emotional pain, as well as a diminished quality of life. You may be entitled to compensation for these non-economic damages.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle was involved in the bus accident, you may be able to recover compensation for the damage to your property.
- Compensation for Long-Term Care and Disability: If your injuries result in long-term care needs or permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for the associated expenses.
Our experienced attorneys will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses. We will handle all aspects of your claim, from negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary.
Choose Our Fresno Bus Accident Lawyers
At Berg Injury Lawyers, we have a proven track record of success in handling complex bus accident cases. We have the experience and resources to take on large transportation companies and their insurers to get you the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Plus, with our No Fee Guarantee®, if you don’t win, you pay nothing. Contact our Fresno bus accident lawyers today for a free consultation.