Seattle Bus Accident Lawyers
Private and public bus carriers play an important role in Washington's transportation system. These large vehicles are typically safe for passengers and commuters. However, when a Washington bus accident does occur, there is the possibility of catastrophic injuries and fatalities. All mass carrier companies have a legal obligation to provide the utmost level of care to their customers. If you have been injured in a Washington bus accident, please contact an experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer to examine your legal rights and options.
Washington Bus Accident Statistics
According to the Department of Transportation's 2010 crash statistics, 189 buses were involved in non-fatal crashes in Washington. A total of 46 buses were involved in injury accidents in Washington. During that same year, 88 people were injured in Washington bus crashes.
Who is Liable?
Here are a few questions that must be asked following a Washington bus accident:- Bus Driver: Was the bus driver speeding? Did the bus driver fail to yield the right-of-way or was the driver distracted or impaired due to alcohol or drug use?
- Bus company: Did the bus company hire an inexperienced driver or a driver who had a poor record? Did the bus company and driver maintain federally mandated logs showing bus drivers' hours of service and vehicle maintenance information?
- Other motorists: Was the driver of another vehicle clearly at fault for the crash?
The answers to these questions could determine who may be held financially responsible for the damages suffered in the crash. In some cases, it may be in the best interest of the injured victim to pursue financial compensation from multiple parties that were responsible.
What to Do after a Washington Bus Accident
What you do or don't do in the aftermath of any motor vehicle accident can determine the amount of compensation you receive. Victims of these types of crashes would be well advised to:
- Get their name on the police report to prove they were on the bus
- Immediately seek medical attention to increase the chances of a full recovery and to create a medical record for the injuries sustained.
- Call an experienced bus accident attorney right away following the crash
The medical expenses and time away from work required following a Washington bus accident can be devastating for a family. Seeking compensation through civil litigation may be the only way to get fair compensation for the damages suffered. A successful civil lawsuit may result in compensation for losses like hospital bills and lost wages.
The experienced Seattle bus accident attorneys at Hardwick & Pendergast have a long and successful track record of helping Washington bus accident victims obtain the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve. If you have suffered injuries in a bus accident, call us before you talk to an insurance adjuster or sign off on an agreement. We always provide no-cost consultations to injured victims and their families.
