Springdale, AR Bus Accident Lawyer
When an accident involves a tour bus, school bus, or even a crowded public transit bus, it often reaches national headlines. The large size of these vehicles is a significant factor that inflates the number and severity of injuries.
Bus accidents in Springdale happen because of driver errors, mechanical failures, hazardous road conditions, inclement weather, or another driver. Buses are prone to certain accidents because they are challenging to maneuver, including turning or stopping. In many cases, a bus is unable to move or avoid another vehicle.
Every automotive accident case presents its own unique challenges. Bus accidents are no different. In fact, they are even more complicated. Buses carry more passengers than other vehicles and accidents tend to result in serious injuries. If you were harmed in a bus accident, call (479) 316-0438 to discuss your legal options.
Duty of Care for Bus Drivers and Bus Companies in Springdale
Duty of care is the legal responsibility people and companies owe others not to cause harm or injury. The duty of care for common carriers requires a higher level of care because they offer a paid service to the public. The average motorist has an obligation to operate their car in a reasonably safe manner to ensure the safety of their passengers and other motorists on the road. These same obligations extend to Springdale bus drivers.
Examples of negligent conduct exhibited by bus operators include speeding, reckless driving, or driving while exhausted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Meanwhile, bus companies could be held liable for failing to inspect their buses, perform routine maintenance, or properly train their drivers. Furthermore, bus companies must perform sufficient background checks to ensure their drivers have clean driving records and are properly licensed. When a bus driver or company violates the duty of care and an accident occurs, they could be held legally and financially liable for any injuries or damages.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Springdale, AR
If you are involved in a bus accident as a passenger, you might have no idea what caused the accident. Depending on what occurred, the fault could lie with the bus driver, another driver, or the bus company. Our Springdale bus accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate the accident to determine what caused the crash and who should be held accountable. Some common causes of Springdale bus accidents include the following:
- Distracting Driving
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance
- Driver Fatigue
- Reckless Driving
- Speeding
- Defective Equipment
- Another Motorist or Motorists
- Hazardous Road Conditions
- Inclement Weather
In some bus accident cases, it might be possible to hold more than one party liable. For example, multiple drivers might be at fault or there could have been several parties responsible for the repair and upkeep of the bus. Our Springdale bus accident lawyers will work to ensure all potentially liable parties are included in a lawsuit or insurance negotiations.
Because bus accident cases are complicated, it is critical to speak with an experienced Springdale bus accident lawyer as soon as possible. You want to begin investigating your case while the evidence remains readily available.
Additionally, the injuries that result from bus crashes are often severe. You want to have your legal counsel working closely with your medical providers to ensure your injuries are properly documented.
When Can You File a Bus Accident Lawsuit in Springdale, AR
In the legal world, you have a specified time limit to file a lawsuit. Each state has a statute of limitations that sets the governing deadlines. This is important information if you are planning to seek financial compensation through the civil courts.
In Arkansas, you have three years from the date of an injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. While this might appear to be a long time, it is advisable to speak with our Springdale bus accident lawyers well before the deadline. As stated above, bus accident cases are complicated and take time to investigate thoroughly. Furthermore, crucial evidence is often only available shortly after an accident. The longer you wait to review your case with a competent legal representative, the more challenging your case will likely become.
Compensation Available After a Springdale, AR Bus Accident
Our Springdale bus accident lawyers will work closely with you, your medical providers, and any insurance companies to value your damages. If you are hurt because of another’s negligence, you are entitled to be financially compensated for your damages. Depending on the specifics of your case, how cooperative the insurance company or companies are, and the evidence available, you might want to negotiate a settlement or take your case to court. Whatever choice you make, you are typically able to recover two types of damages.
Economic Damages
Your actual out-of-pocket expenses and costs fall under the category of “economic damages.” For example, the cost of an ambulance ride or physical therapy would fall under economic damages. While medical expenses will make up a significant portion of your economic damages, they are not limited to healthcare. You are also entitled to seek financial compensation for your current and future lost wages.
Non-Economic Damages
Anyone familiar with personal injury lawsuits has heard the phrase “pain and suffering.” Pain and suffering fall under the category commonly referred to as “non-economic damages.” If you are harmed in a bus accident, you are entitled to recover for the mental and emotional distress you experienced. This could include feeling depressed, anxious, or simply being unable to enjoy your life to the same extent you could have before the accident.
Springdale, AR Bus Accident Lawyers Fighting for Your Rights
Bus accidents cases are challenging and present many legal hurdles. You need our experienced Springdale, AR bus accidents lawyers who understand the nuances of dealing with common carriers. Call (479) 316-0438 to schedule an appointment.