Hazleton Bus Accident Lawyer
While bus accidents may not happen with the same frequency as car accidents, the severity of injuries is typically much worse. Accidents involving buses are not strictly limited to the bus striking another vehicle or object. In some cases, the bus may strike one or more pedestrians, a train, etc. In addition, some buses may be solo vehicle collisions due to poor maintenance or bad weather conditions that cause the bus to run off the road and roll over, causing injuries to those on board.
When you are a passenger on a bus, you have given up all your control and placed your life in the hands of the bus company and the driver. Being involved in an accident is a scary experience, and the added stress of wondering who will pay for your medical treatment can make the whole ordeal feel overwhelming.
It’s understandable that you want to pursue a claim for your injuries against the at-fault parties in the accident. However, given that you aren’t likely the only person who was injured, the insurance company may be dealing with a significant number of claims. An experienced Hazleton bus accident lawyer can help you expedite your claim.
Why You Need a Bus Accident Lawyer Representing You
Representing yourself in this type of personal injury claim could lead to your claim being placed at the bottom of the pile. This is why you need a Hazleton bus accident lawyer on your side. At O’Donnell Law Offices, we have experience handling claims involving multiple claimants and complex liability issues.
In many cases, you may be dealing with government entities who operate or control the buses, making the claims process even more complex. When you are dealing with government entities, the claims process is quite different. There are very strict filing guidelines and procedural rules. Failure to follow these can result in a claim denial.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Pennsylvania
Some of the most common causes of bus accidents in the state include:
- Driver Error: If you have a bus driver who is new and inexperienced, or lacked proper training, it could lead to an accident.
- Driver Fatigue or Driving Under the Influence: Bus drivers should not be drinking while operating a bus, but sometimes people don’t follow the law and have a few drinks before their shift, or in between routes. Also, drivers who are on the road too many hours a day may be exhausted and fall asleep at the wheel.
- Distracted Driving: Bus drivers need to pay extra attention while operating a vehicle with multiple passengers on board. A bus driver needs to stay off his or her phone, refrain from texting, and avoid any other possible distractions that could lead to a crash.
- Mechanical Errors and Negligent Maintenance: The bus company or government agency responsible for the bus needs to ensure the vehicles are in top shape. There should be safety checks, and buses should be properly maintained. In the event it’s not, there could be a mechanical error, a tire may blow, the brakes could go out, etc.
Contact a Pennsylvania Bus Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in a bus accident, contact O’Donnell Law Offices today to schedule an initial consultation.
