You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in San Antonio. At Patterson Law Group, our San Antonio bus accident attorneys have years of experience representing victims in bus accident cases.
We are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. Below, we provide essential information on bus accidents, your legal rights, and how our team can help.
Understanding Bus Accidents in San Antonio
Due to their large size and weight, bus accidents can be particularly devastating. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver involved in a bus accident, the injuries you sustained can be severe.
In San Antonio, bus accidents often involve public transportation buses, school buses, or private charter buses. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that in 2021, there were over 5,700 fatal bus accidents annually across the United States, with many others resulting in serious injuries.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) indicates over 200 bus accidents in Bexar County alone last year. With such high numbers, it’s clear that these accidents are a significant risk, and victims need experienced legal representation to fight for their rights.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can happen for various reasons, and identifying the cause is crucial in building a strong case. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver Negligence: Bus drivers must operate their vehicles safely. If they are distracted, fatigued, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they can cause severe accidents.
- Poor Bus Maintenance: Bus companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are well-maintained. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or mechanical failures can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Reckless Driving by Other Motorists: Other drivers on the road may cut off buses, or speed, or engage in reckless behavior that causes a collision.
- Weather and Road Conditions: Poor weather, road defects, and lack of proper signage can also contribute to accidents involving buses.
Our San Antonio bus wreck attorneys are skilled at investigating the underlying cause of accidents and identifying the liable parties. We work with accident reconstruction experts and gather evidence to build a comprehensive case on your behalf.
Who Is Liable in a Bus Accident?
Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible. Depending on the circumstances, potential liable parties may include:
- The Bus Driver: If the driver’s negligence caused the accident, they and their employer may be held accountable.
- The Bus Company: If the company failed to maintain the bus properly or hired unqualified drivers, they could be liable for damages.
- Third-Party Drivers: If another vehicle’s reckless or negligent behavior caused the bus accident, that driver might be held responsible.
- Government Entities: If the bus is a public vehicle owned by a government entity like VIA Metropolitan Transit, additional legal hurdles may exist. Government entities have certain protections, but our experienced attorneys know how to pursue claims against them.
Texas Bus Accident Laws and Your Legal Rights
Texas law allows victims of bus accidents to seek compensation for their injuries. However, navigating these claims can be challenging, especially when government entities are involved. Here are some key laws and regulations that may impact your case:
- Texas Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, the timeline may be shorter if a government entity is involved. For example, you may have only six months to file a formal notice of claim against a city-owned bus system like VIA Metropolitan Transit.
- Federal Regulations: Buses that operate across state lines are governed by federal regulations, such as those set by the FMCSA. These regulations cover driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance standards, and hours of service. A violation of these federal rules could be used as evidence of negligence in your case.
- Texas Comparative Fault Rule: Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may still recover compensation if you are less than 51% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
Our bus accident lawyers in San Antonio understand the complexities of these laws and will work diligently to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover
Bus accidents can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens. As your dedicated legal advocates, we will pursue every avenue to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Some of the damages we may seek on your behalf include:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and any future medical care you may need due to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages now and in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Besides economic damages, we will seek compensation for your pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
- Loss of Consortium: If the accident has affected your relationship with your spouse, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium.
- Punitive Damages: In extreme negligence, such as a bus company’s failure to maintain their vehicles properly, we may pursue punitive damages to hold the negligent party accountable.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group?
When looking for a top-rated accident lawyer in San Antonio, experience and dedication matter. At Patterson Law Group, we have a proven track record of successfully representing bus accident victims.
Our approach is personal—we treat each case as our own, ensuring you receive the best possible outcome.
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand your unique situation and work closely with you to develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
- Expert Negotiators: Many bus accident cases are settled outside of court. Our experienced attorneys are skilled negotiators who will fight to get you the maximum settlement possible.
- Trial-Ready: If the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, we fully prepare to take your case to court. Our trial experience and courtroom advocacy are key assets that set us apart.
Steps to Take After a Bus Accident
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Getting a medical evaluation can also provide vital documentation for your case.
- Document the Accident Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Get contact information from witnesses and other parties involved.
- Report the Accident: Ensure the accident is reported to the police and the bus company. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
- Contact a San Antonio Bus Accident Attorney: The sooner you contact us, the better. We can begin investigating your case, preserving crucial evidence, and advising you on the best action.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Bus Accident Lawyer in San Antonio
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, don’t wait—reach out to Patterson Law Group today. As your trusted San Antonio bus accident attorneys, we are committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations to evaluate your case and provide the guidance you need during this difficult time.
Call us now at 817.242.9020 or complete our online contact form to schedule your consultation. Our team is ready to fight for you, ensuring your rights are protected, and your voice is heard. You don’t have to face this alone—let our top-rated bus accident lawyers in San Antonio stand by your side every step of the way.
