Victims of bus accidents can pursue payment for the harm they sustain. There are several types of economic and non-economic damages that may be compensated. However, the process for recovering these damages can be complex.
There are multiple parties who can be at fault for a crash involving a large bus. For instance, a collision may stem from negligent conduct exhibited by a third-party motorist, a bus driver, a private bus company, or a public entity. Thankfully, our legal professionals can help plaintiffs assess their potential claims and determine the appropriate steps to take.
Seek assistance from our bus accident lawyers by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
Common Injuries Caused by Accidents Involving Busses in Johnson City, TN
The injuries that result from bus accidents are often very serious. For example, passengers and motorists who are hurt because of such accidents regularly incur the following:
Head Injuries
Head injuries are a prevalent consequence of bus accidents, often resulting from the sudden impact of the collision or passengers being thrown around inside the bus. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Mild cases may require rest and pain management, while severe TBIs may necessitate surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care. Victims should seek immediate medical attention to assess the severity of the head injury and receive the appropriate treatment.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are another serious outcome of bus accidents, typically due to the forceful jolts and abrupt stops involved. These injuries can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, or impaired motor function. Treatment options for spinal cord injuries may include surgery to stabilize the spine, physical therapy to regain mobility, and assistive devices to enhance daily life for those with permanent impairments.
Bone Fractures
Bus accidents can lead to various bone fractures, such as broken arms, legs, ribs, or facial bones. These fractures often result from the impact of the accident, and the severity depends on the force of the collision. Treatment for bone fractures typically involves immobilization with casts, splints, or surgery in severe cases. Physical therapy may be required to restore strength and functionality after the bones have healed.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions, are common because of the sudden and forceful movements experienced in a bus accident. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Treatment options for soft tissue injuries may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and in some cases, medication for pain and inflammation.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury frequently seen in bus accident victims because of the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head and neck during a collision. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. Treatment for whiplash may involve physical therapy, pain management, and exercises to improve neck strength and flexibility.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are often not immediately apparent but can be life-threatening. These injuries may include damage to organs like the spleen, liver, or kidneys because of the forceful impact. Prompt medical evaluation through imaging and diagnostic tests is crucial to detect and treat internal injuries. Treatment options may involve surgery or other interventions depending on the severity.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, bus accidents can also cause emotional and psychological trauma in victims. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common outcomes. Treatment options may encompass therapy, counseling, and medication to address these mental health issues.
Considering Settlement Offers in Johnson City Bus Accident Lawsuits
After you file a bus accident lawsuit in Johnson City, the defendant in your case will likely present you with a settlement offer. If you accept the offer, then you will receive a certain sum of damages from the defendant in exchange for the dismissal of your claim. There are multiple reasons why you would want to enter into a settlement agreement. For example, by settling early, you may avoid some of the additional costs that would be incurred at trial. Furthermore, you may receive payment sooner.
Unfortunately, defendants in bus accident cases regularly attempt to settle their cases for less than they are worth. If you are not presented with an appropriate settlement offer, then you may need to go to trial to acquire the full range of payment you deserve.
Our bus accident lawyers can help negotiate for better settlement offer in your case. Further, if an acceptable offer is not presented, then we will help fight for the damages you deserve at trial.
Examples of Evidence Used to Prove Fault for Bus Accidents in Johnson City, TN
For you to recover damages in a bus accident lawsuit, you must preserve and present evidence that shows your crash happened because of another party’s negligent behavior. The following are all examples of evidence that you may utilize to prove fault:
Eyewitness Testimony
Eyewitness testimony is a crucial form of evidence in bus accident cases. Witnesses who were present at the scene can provide firsthand accounts of what they observed, including the actions of the bus driver, other vehicles involved, and road conditions. Their statements can help establish a timeline of events and provide insight into who may be at fault.
Surveillance Footage
Surveillance footage from cameras installed on the bus or nearby businesses can be valuable evidence. This visual evidence can show the moments leading up to the accident, the accident itself, and its aftermath. Surveillance footage can help establish the bus driver’s behavior, traffic violations, and whether other vehicles contributed to the accident.
Bus Black Box Data
Buses often have event data recorders, similar to the black boxes in airplanes, which capture information about the bus’s speed, braking, and other operational data. This data can provide critical insights into how the bus was being driven at the time of the accident and whether the driver followed safety protocols.
Accident Reconstruction Reports
Accident reconstruction experts use evidence such as skid marks, damage to vehicles, and the accident scene’s layout to recreate the sequence of events leading to the accident. Their reports can be instrumental in determining fault and demonstrating it to the court.
Traffic Violations and Citations
Evidence of traffic violations or citations issued to the bus driver or other parties involved can establish negligence or fault. This may include speeding tickets, running red lights, or other violations that contributed to the accident.
Contact Our Bus Accident Lawyers for Assistance with Your Claim in Johnson City, TN
Get support from our bus accident lawyers at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357.
