Public transportation is an excellent option for getting around busy cities like New York. However, mass transport is not immune to collisions and other events that can lead to injuries. If you sustained harm in an accident while riding on a bus, the operator could be liable for your medical costs, lost income, pain, suffering, and other effects the injury had on your quality of life.
Quick action typically leads to better results. A hard-working personal injury attorney from Richmond Vona, LLC can begin collecting evidence immediately, leading to a stronger case. Contact one of our Williamsville bus accident lawyers as soon as possible after the crash to discuss your legal options.
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Procedure for a Bus Accident Claim
Under New York’s no-fault liability system, anyone who suffers injuries in a vehicle accident turns first to the appropriate personal injury protection plan (PIP) or the PIP of a household member. This includes bus passengers.
It is crucial to submit the claim to the correct insurer within the applicable time constraints. No-fault insurers require an injured person to submit a claim within 30 days of the incident.
A Williamsville attorney can help a bus accident victim identify the correct source of insurance and take the lead in filing a claim. They can also ensure that the extent of the individual’s injuries is properly reflected to obtain the maximum amount of compensation that adequately recovers for their losses.
Common Causes of Bus Wrecks
Due to their shape, weight, and size, buses are cumbersome vehicles that require a great amount of skill and attention to operate. They are top-heavy, prone to rollovers, and have large blind spots. Because of this, driver error causes many bus accidents.
A driver might be distracted, fatigued, or just not skillful enough to avoid an incident in a particular circumstance. Additionally, winter road conditions in this area are especially challenging for buses, and a driver might have insufficient experience operating the vehicle in ice and snow to do so safely.
In addition to the driver holding liability for a wreck, their employer could also share partial responsibility. This is especially the case if the incident resulted from poor maintenance, outdated equipment, inadequate training, unreasonable scheduling, or negligent hiring. A meticulous attorney in Williamsville can investigate a bus accident to pinpoint the negligent acts or omissions that contributed to it.
Taking a Bus Company to Court
If an individual’s damages exceed the amount available through PIP, they can seek compensation in court. However, this is only an option if the person suffered a serious injury as defined by New York Insurance Law § 5102d. This includes:
A broken bone
Conditions that significantly disrupt the person’s ability to adhere to their daily routine for at least 90 days within the 180 days following the event
Significant disfigurement
Significant limitation of a body function or system
Permanent loss or limitation of use of a body organ, member, function, or system
It is important to note that special procedural rules apply if a school district or local government operates the bus. An injured person has only 90 days from the accident to notify the local government of the claim. A Williamsville bus accident attorney can file all the notices required on time to preserve an injured person’s rights.
Contact a Williamsville Bus Accident Attorney to Pursue Compensation
If you suffered injuries in an incident that took place on public transportation, the bus company and operator could be liable for your damages. However, the claims process is complex, so having skilled legal guidance is vital.
A Williamsville bus accident lawyer from Richmond Vona, LLC, can help you file your PIP claim and, if necessary, hold the at-fault parties responsible in court. Call today to discuss your situation with one of our committed attorneys.
With over 25 years of combined personal injury experience, our co-founding attorneys, John E. Richmond and Keith R. Vona, have helped injury victims and their family members recover more than $150 million in financial relief.
John E. Richmond
Co-Founding Member
As one of New York’s top personal injury attorneys, John E. Richmond understands that clients come first. With over a decade of experience representing plaintiffs, he knows how to hold negligent corporations and big insurance companies liable.
In his nearly 15 years in practice, Keith has been consistently recognized for his client service and record of results. He has been selected for inclusion in the New York Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list four times (2013 to 2016), an honor reserved for the top up-and-coming attorneys.
