Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in the complexities of public transport injury cases.
Texas ranked third in 2021 for the state with the highest number of bus crashes and second for fatalities in bus accidents. While these represent just a small fraction of motor vehicle accidents each year, the losses they cause are devastating for victims and their families.
According to TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation), the state had 540 bus accidents in 2021, 931 suspected injuries, and 21 fatalities.
Whether you’re dealing with a city bus injury or a commercial bus accident, our skilled bus collision injury lawyers are prepared to navigate the legal landscape on your behalf. We strive to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and suffering. Let us assist you in pursuing justice and accountability.
Types of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can occur in various contexts and circumstances, requiring a specific legal approach. As a reputable Fort Worth bus accident lawyer, we effectively handle a range of scenarios to ensure our clients receive the best representation.
- City Bus Accidents: City bus accidents are more prevalent and involve collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects. Due to the size and force of public transport vehicles, these incidents often result in significant injuries.
- Commercial Bus Incidents: Commercial bus accidents involve larger vehicles for tours, charters, or long-distance travel. These cases often include complex liability issues, as multiple parties, including drivers, companies, and maintenance crews, can be held accountable for negligence.
- Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end collisions involving buses can lead to severe injury claims. Due to their significant weight, even minor impacts can result in catastrophic injuries.
- Multi-Vehicle Crashes: Multi-vehicle bus accidents can be particularly complicated, as they often involve numerous parties and determining fault can become lengthy.
In every bus accident case, we work to provide support and assertive legal representation. Whether it’s a city bus injury or a commercial bus accident, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Common Causes of Bus Collisions
Understanding the common causes of bus collisions is crucial for holding the right parties accountable. Our Fort Worth bus accident lawyer closely examines these factors to build strong cases for our clients.
Driver Negligence
One of the most prevalent causes of bus accidents is driver negligence. This can include distracted driving, fatigue, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Our bus accident attorney in Fort Worth is skilled at identifying negligent behavior and proving how it contributed to the accident, ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Poor Maintenance
Buses require regular maintenance to operate safely. Neglecting maintenance issues can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents.
Whether it’s brake failure or issues with tires, our commercial bus accident lawyer can investigate the maintenance records of the bus to determine liability, possibly holding the bus company accountable for any negligence.
Traffic Violations
Traffic violations like running red lights or failing to yield frequently contribute to bus collisions. As a seasoned city bus injury attorney, we understand the importance of gathering traffic camera footage and eyewitness accounts to establish how traffic laws were breached, directly impacting the outcome of your case.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Weather can significantly affect bus accidents. Rain, snow, and fog can reduce visibility and affect vehicle handling.
Our bus collision injury team is experienced in demonstrating how adverse weather conditions contributed to an incident and what measures could have been taken to prevent it.
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced bus drivers may lack the necessary skills to navigate complex driving situations, leading to accidents. As your bus accident liability attorney, we thoroughly evaluate the driver’s background and training to highlight any inadequacies that could have contributed to the collision.
Recognizing these common causes enables us to build compelling cases and advocate effectively for victims. At Patterson Law Group, we are committed to helping our clients secure justice following any bus accident.
Our Experience as Fort Worth Bus Accident Lawyers
At Patterson Law Group, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience representing clients in bus accidents throughout Fort Worth. We understand the legal landscape surrounding these cases, enabling us to provide our clients with informed and effective legal representation tailored to their unique situations.
Proven Track Record
Our Fort Worth bus accident lawyers have successfully handled numerous cases involving city and commercial bus accidents. Our proven track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts demonstrates our commitment to fighting for our client’s rights.
We take time to carefully investigate each case, collecting critical evidence and working with experts to build compelling arguments supporting our clients’ compensation claim.
Knowledge of Local Laws
Understanding local laws and regulations is essential for an effective bus accident attorney. Our team is well-informed about the specific laws governing bus operations in Fort Worth, allowing us to identify potential liability and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
This knowledge is crucial in enhancing our clients’ likelihood of a successful outcome.
Compassionate Support
We believe that effective legal representation goes beyond the courtroom. At Patterson Law Group, we strive to offer compassionate support to our clients following their accidents.
Our lawyers work closely with victims and their families, guiding them through the often daunting legal process while ensuring they have the information to make informed decisions.
Commitment to Justice
Our unwavering commitment to seeking justice for bus accident victims drives our work. We stand firmly alongside our clients, relentlessly pursuing accountability for those responsible for their pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident in Fort Worth, our experienced legal team is prepared to fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.
The Legal Process Following a Bus Accident
Navigating the legal process after a bus accident can be complex and overwhelming, but at Patterson Law Group, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced Fort Worth bus accident lawyers understand the process and are committed to ensuring our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Initial Consultation
The first step in the legal process is the initial consultation, where we evaluate your case and understand the specifics of the accident. Our bus accident attorney will listen to your account, assess the evidence, and outline potential legal options to pursue.
This meeting lets you ask questions and determine how we can best assist you.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Once you decide to proceed, we will initiate a thorough investigation. Our team gathers crucial evidence, including police reports, eyewitness statements, and medical records.
We may also consult with accident reconstruction experts to comprehensively understand the incident. This evidence is essential for establishing liability and supporting your claims.
Filing a Claim
After gathering sufficient evidence, we prepare and file a claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. Our bus accident lawyers will negotiate on your behalf to seek a fair settlement.
We understand the tactics insurance adjusters use and are skilled at ensuring your rights are protected throughout this process.
Litigation
We are prepared to take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Our seasoned trial attorneys will represent you, presenting compelling arguments and evidence to pursue compensation. We are diligent in our preparation and committed to advocating for your rights before a judge and jury.
Resolution
Ultimately, the goal of the legal process is to reach a resolution that acknowledges your suffering and compensates you for your losses. Whether through settlement or trial, our team at Patterson Law Group is dedicated to helping you navigate this process confidently, ensuring you receive the justice you deserve after a bus accident.
Types of Compensation Available
Medical Expenses
One of the primary types of compensation available to bus accident victims includes reimbursement for medical expenses. This encompasses immediate costs, such as hospital bills and emergency care, ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, and any necessary medications. Our team will compile comprehensive medical documentation to substantiate these claims.
Lost Wages
Injuries in a bus accident can lead to significant time away from work. Victims may be eligible to recover lost wages during their recovery period and any future lost earning potential if their injuries impact their ability to work long-term. We thoroughly assess the financial implications of your injuries to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Pain and Suffering
Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are also critical components of compensation. This type of compensation reflects the physical pain and emotional distress experienced following an accident. Our compassionate attorneys are skilled at articulating the impact of your injuries on your quality of life to secure appropriate compensation for these intangible losses.
Property Damage
If your personal property, like a vehicle or personal belongings, was damaged in the bus accident, you may also be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement. We assist clients in documenting the extent of the damage to advocate for financial restitution.
Emotional Distress
Beyond physical injuries, bus accident victims may experience emotional distress as a result of their trauma. Compensation for emotional suffering recognizes the psychological impact that accidents can have on individuals and their families. Our legal team will work to establish this aspect of your claim, ensuring that emotional pain is acknowledged and compensated.
By understanding the various types of compensation available, our team at Patterson Law Group is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the financial support necessary for your recovery following a bus accident.
Navigating Bus Accident Liability
Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the incident. At Patterson Law Group, we are dedicated to thoroughly investigating your case to establish who is liable, ensuring you have a strong foundation for your claims.
Identifying Responsible Parties
In many bus accidents, liability can involve various entities, including the bus driver, the bus company, and even third parties, such as other drivers or pedestrians. Our experienced team will analyze the circumstances of your accident to identify all parties that may bear responsibility.
This could involve reviewing accident reports, conducting interviews, and gathering witness testimonies.
Establishing Negligence
To successfully pursue a liability claim, it’s essential to demonstrate that negligence played a role in the accident. Our attorneys will work to establish whether the responsible party acted unreasonably or failed to adhere to safety regulations.
This may include examining factors such as driver fatigue, traffic violations, maintenance issues, or improper training, all of which can contribute to the occurrence of an accident.
The Role of Insurance Companies
Insurance companies play a significant role in bus accident liability cases. After identifying the liable parties, our team will engage with their insurance carriers to pursue compensation on your behalf. We will negotiate with insurance adjusters to ensure that they acknowledge their liability and provide a fair settlement that addresses your needs.
Comparative Fault
Sometimes, the fault may be shared among different parties, including the victim. Most states follow a comparative fault model, which means that your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.
Our legal team will evaluate the details of your case to ensure that any comparative fault claims are accurately assessed and that your rights are protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the legal process following a bus accident can be challenging. At Patterson Law Group, we work to address common concerns and empower victims and their families during this difficult time.
What should I do immediately after a bus accident?
It’s crucial to prioritize your safety and health. Seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering witness information; this evidence can be vital for your claim.
How long do I have to file a claim?
The time frame for filing a bus accident claim varies by state due to statute limitations. Generally, it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.
Will I have to go to court?
Not all bus accident cases require a court appearance. Many claims can be settled through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement isn’t reached, we will take your case to court to fight for your deserved compensation.
How is compensation determined?
Compensation is assessed based on various factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Our legal team will evaluate all aspects of your case to ensure you receive a fair and comprehensive settlement.
What if I am partially at fault for the accident?
If the fault is shared among parties, many states follow a comparative fault model, which may reduce your compensation based on your degree of fault. Our attorneys will work diligently to evaluate your responsibility fairly and protect your rights.
By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to alleviate some uncertainty surrounding bus accident claims and clarify the process ahead. Our team at Patterson Law Group is here to support you every step of the way.
Protecting Your Rights After a Fort Worth Bus Accident
In the aftermath of a bus accident, navigating the legal landscape can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Patterson Law Group, we are committed to advocating for your rights and guiding you through each stage of the claims process.
From understanding liability to addressing frequently asked questions, our experienced team is here to provide the support and experience you need. We recognize the emotional and financial toll these incidents can take on victims and their families, so we strive to secure the compensation you deserve for your recovery.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance in pursuing justice and rebuilding your life after a bus accident.
