The road to recovery after a bus accident can be complicated. First, many victims must recover from serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, soft tissue damage, and spinal cord damage. These injuries are among the many types of bus accident injuries that can produce debilitating physical pain, emotional distress, and financial hardship.
Further, there are multiple parties who may be at fault for a bus accident. Accordingly, determining who to sue after a crash is not always a straightforward process. Fortunately, the team at our law firm can help potential plaintiffs identify the proper course of action.
In the aftermath of your bus accident in Phenix City, AL, get help from our experienced bus accident lawyers at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357 to evaluate your case for free.
Who to Sue After Suffering a Bus Accident in Phenix City, AL
Identifying who to sue is a crucial step toward recovering compensation in a bus accident case. It is not always an easy task.
There are several different parties who may be liable for your crash. For instance, your collision may have occurred because of careless behavior exhibited by a bus driver or third-party motorist. Further, your accident may stem from negligent conduct exhibited by a bus company or government entity. Finally, your crash may also have happened because a vehicle was equipped with a defective product.
In any case, our experienced bus accident lawyers can investigate your accident and determine who to sue. Furthermore, we can help build your case and fight for the full range of payment you are owed.
Types of Injuries Caused by Bus Accidents in Phenix City, AL
There a multitude of different injuries that can stem from bus accidents. Unfortunately, many of these injuries are very serious and can take a long time to heal. If you suffered any of the following as a result of your bus accident, then you may be entitled to significant compensation:
Head Injuries
Head injuries are one of the common outcomes of bus accidents. Passengers can hit their heads against the seats, windows, or other hard surfaces on the bus during a collision. This can result in traumatic brain injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe cases like intracranial hemorrhaging. These injuries can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, or even changes in personality.
Facial Injuries
Facial injuries also frequently occur, often as a result of flying debris or shattered glass. Passengers may suffer lacerations, broken noses, or even eye injuries. These types of injuries can have long-term effects on a victim’s physical appearance and functionality, possibly requiring plastic surgery or other corrective procedures.
Neck and Back Injuries
Neck and back injuries, often associated with the sudden jerking motion created by the impact, can be particularly debilitating. Whiplash is a common occurrence, affecting the soft tissues of the neck and causing pain and limited movement. In more severe cases, spinal cord injuries may occur, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis.
Chest Injuries
Chest injuries can happen when the force of the collision throws passengers forward. In such instances, the chest can hit the seat in front, the hand rail, or even another passenger. This could result in broken ribs, internal bleeding, or damage to the lungs or heart.
Arm and Leg Injuries
In bus accidents, the extremities – arms and legs – are also particularly vulnerable. These injuries can range from simple bruises and abrasions to more serious fractures and dislocations. In the worst scenarios, some victims might even suffer from crushed limbs, which could necessitate amputation.
Abdominal Injuries
Abdominal injuries, while less common, can also occur in bus accidents. The force of the collision can result in damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or other internal organs. These injuries are particularly dangerous as they are often not immediately apparent, but they can lead to serious complications if not promptly addressed.
Psychological Harm
Finally, psychological injuries can be a significant issue for bus accident victims. The trauma of such events can lead to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression. These mental health issues can severely affect a victim’s overall quality of life and may require long-term therapy.
Proving Fault for a Bus Accident in Phenix City, AL
In order to recover payment in a bus accident lawsuit, you must be able to prove that your accident occurred because of the defendant’s negligence. Further, you must demonstrate that your injuries are a result of the accident at issue. There are several different types of evidence that may be utilized to accomplish these tasks. The following are all common forms of evidence utilized by our legal team:
Witness Statements
Witness statements represent a crucial piece of the puzzle. Bystanders, passengers, or other drivers who witnessed the accident can provide accounts of the events leading to the collision, the accident itself, and the immediate aftermath. These statements can offer invaluable insights into factors such as the behaviors of the bus driver, road conditions, and other potential contributing factors.
Surveillance Footage
Next, surveillance footage carries significant weight. Cameras installed at intersections, on buildings, or even within the bus itself can capture the incident in real-time, providing an unfiltered perspective on the unfolding events. This footage can not only corroborate witness statements but can also reveal additional, often overlooked details such as the speed of the bus, its route, and any anomalies in its operations.
Photos from the Scene
Photos from the scene of the accident are another key type of evidence. These can capture the physical aftermath of the collision, including the damage inflicted on the bus, other vehicles involved, and surrounding infrastructure. Additionally, they can depict conditions such as skid marks or debris on the road, which may suggest negligence or unsafe driving.
Expert Witness Testimonies
Finally, expert testimonies from accident reconstruction specialists or vehicle safety experts can further help your case. These professionals can analyze all available evidence and provide an educated opinion on the probable causes of the accident, often identifying less apparent factors like mechanical failures and design flaws.
Contact Our Bus Accident Lawyers for Help After Suffering a Crash in Phenix City, AL
Seek guidance from our bus accident lawyers by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357 today.