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Bus Accident Attorney in Wilmington, North Carolina

In North Carolina, as in many other states, bus accidents are a significant concern. Whether they involve public transit, private charter buses, or school buses, these accidents can result in serious personal injury or even fatalities.

Due to the sheer size and weight of buses and the multiple parties involved, bus accident claims can be challenging to work through. Based in Wilmington, North Carolina, Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney is here to provide the experienced legal assistance bus accident victims need to face their cases with confidence.

Types of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can occur in various scenarios, each with its own set of contributing factors. The most common types of bus accidents include the following:

Public Transit Bus Accidents

Many of North Carolina’s cities rely heavily on public bus systems to transport residents. Accidents involving public transit buses can happen due to issues like driver error, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions. These incidents often involve multiple injured parties, including passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

School Bus Accidents

School buses are generally considered to be among the safest modes of transportation for children. However, accidents still happen.

Whether due to distracted driving, speeding, or reckless behavior from other drivers failing to follow traffic laws around school buses, the consequences of a school bus accident can be devastating. Personal injury claims in these cases can be particularly complicated because the victims are often minors, and specific regulations govern these types of incidents.

Charter Bus and Tour Bus Accidents

Charter and tour buses, often used for long-distance travel or group trips, are also involved in accidents from time to time. These buses are typically operated by private companies.

Accidents can occur due to driver fatigue, improper vehicle maintenance, or even weather-related issues. In these situations, passengers and other affected parties may be entitled to file personal injury claims.

Bus Accidents With Other Vehicles

Accidents can occur when buses collide with cars, trucks, or motorcycles. Whether the bus driver is at fault or another driver causes the accident, these collisions can result in serious injury or death to passengers and those in other vehicles. Personal injury claims in these situations may involve negligence on the part of one or more drivers.

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Causes of Bus Accidents

Understanding the causes of bus accidents is essential for determining liability and building a personal injury case. Common causes of bus accidents in North Carolina include the following:

Driver Negligence

Like other vehicles, bus drivers are expected to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. However, they can be negligent in several ways, including:

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on a cell phone.

  • Failing to follow traffic laws or stop signs.

  • Fatigued or drowsy driving, which can impair reaction times and judgment.

  • Speeding or aggressive driving.

  • Improperly trained drivers who aren’t familiar with how to handle a large vehicle.

Mechanical Failures

Buses are large, complicated machines with intricate systems that need to be well-maintained. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, engine issues, or tire blowouts, can lead to catastrophic accidents. These failures may be the result of poor maintenance, defective parts, or failure to address warning signs that an issue exists.

Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris in the road can all pose significant risks to buses, especially when drivers aren’t prepared for these hazards. Inclement weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, can also create dangerous driving conditions. It’s the responsibility of local municipalities and the state to maintain roadways and make sure they’re safe for travel.

Passenger Distractions

In certain instances, passengers on the bus may contribute to an accident, particularly on public transit or school buses. Disruptive behavior, pushing, or standing up while the bus is in motion can lead to accidents. While this type of accident is less common, it can still result in injuries to those involved.

Legal Considerations for Bus Accidents in North Carolina

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in North Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, the process of filing a personal injury claim can be complicated, particularly because multiple parties may be involved. Understanding the legal process is essential for making sure your rights are upheld and your claim is properly handled.

Liability in Bus Accidents

Determining liability is one of the most important aspects of a bus accident claim. Depending on the circumstances, liability can fall on:

  • The bus driver: If the driver is found to be at fault due to negligence (e.g., distracted driving, driving under the influence), they could be held responsible for the injuries caused by the accident.

  • The bus company or employer: If the bus driver was an employee of a bus company, the company could be held liable for the driver’s actions. In cases of charter bus accidents or public transit accidents, the company’s policies, maintenance records, and training practices could be scrutinized.

  • Other drivers: If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, that driver (or their insurance company) may be responsible for your personal injury claim.

  • The government or municipality: In cases where road conditions, poor signage, or other municipal factors played a role in the accident, a government entity may be held partially liable. However, filing a claim against a government entity can be more complicated due to immunity protections in place in some cases.

Personal Injury Claims and Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. These may include:

  • Medical expenses: Compensation for medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and other healthcare costs.

  • Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for the income you’ve lost.

  • Pain and suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for the emotional distress, pain, and suffering caused by the accident and resulting injuries.

  • Permanent disability: If the injury results in long-term or permanent disability, you may receive compensation for future medical costs, reduced earning capacity, and adjustments to your quality of life.

Statute of Limitations

In North Carolina, personal injury claims related to bus accidents must be filed within a certain time frame. Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. However, in cases involving government entities or school buses, the timeline may be shorter, and specific procedures must be followed.

It’s important to act quickly after an accident to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.

How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help in Bus Accident Cases

Working through a personal injury claim related to a bus accident can be difficult, especially when dealing with insurance companies, government entities, or large bus companies. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Here’s how a personal injury attorney can assist you:

  • Investigating the accident: A personal injury attorney will thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident. This can include gathering evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and maintenance records. They’ll work to establish liability, identifying who is responsible for your injuries.

  • Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies are known for offering low settlements, often hoping that victims will settle quickly without understanding the full extent of their injuries. An experienced personal injury lawyer will handle negotiations with the insurance company, making sure that you’re not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement.

  • Litigating your case: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, a personal injury attorney will be prepared to take your case to court. They’ll represent you during all stages of litigation, presenting your case in the best possible light to the judge or jury.

  • Providing guidance and support: Beyond legal representation, a personal injury attorney can offer guidance and support throughout the process. They’ll explain your options, answer your questions, and help alleviate the stress and confusion that often accompanies a bus accident claim.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal help from Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney. As an experienced personal injury lawyer, I can help you understand the legal system and protect your interests.

I’m here to provide support to accident victims throughout all of North Carolina, including New Hanover County, Pender County, Brunswick County, and Onslow County. Contact me today for skilled legal assistance.