Recovering Compensation after a Bus Accident
Buses are an essential form of transportation for millions of Californians. Whether it’s the school bus every morning and afternoon, city buses as part of a daily commute, or taking a motor coach up the coast or across the country, bus travel can be cost-effective and convenient. As a result, it’s nearly impossible to head out onto California’s roadways without coming across several buses during the course of your commute.
Unfortunately, buses get into accidents just like other vehicles, and when they do, people can be seriously injured. Many buses do not have seatbelts and other safety devices common to cars and truck on board, putting bus riders at significant risk of injury in the event of an accident. In addition, due to their size and weight, bus accidents can cause severe injury to pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists who happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
In many cases, bus accident victims are entitled to compensation for their injuries under California law. Here are some of the things you can do to maximize the chances that you’ll be able to collect for your losses.
Document Information
If you are able to stay at the scene of the accident, collect as much information as you can. Make note of the company responsible for operating the bus and the bus driver’s name. Take pictures of the aftermath of the accident and collect contact information from anyone that may have seen the accident take place.
Moving forward, keep detailed notes about the way in which your injuries affect you on a daily basis. Document things like pain, feelings of anxiety or depression, flashbacks of the accident, problems sleeping or social or family events that you have to skip because of your injuries.
Be Aware of Your Social Media Use
You should be careful about the way you use social media after an accident with a bus. Insurance companies are actively trying to pay out as little as possible, and don’t think that they are too busy to watch victims’ social media posts for anything that could justify lowering a settlement offer or denying a claim. Even something seemingly innocent as posting pictures of yourself out with your friends could potentially be used as evidence that your injuries are not as serious as you are claiming. As a result, it’s not a bad idea to avoid social media altogether while your case is pending.
Do Not Accept a Settlement Offer Before You Have Had a Chance to Speak to an Attorney
You only get one chance to settle your case, as once you sign on that dotted line, it’s nearly impossible to obtain additional compensation for injuries related to the same accident. For this reason, you should always consult with a lawyer before accepting a settlement offer.
Contact an Attorney as Soon as You Can
Finally, you should call a lawyer as soon as you are able after a bus accident. California has a strict statute of limitations, and If the bus that caused your injuries was operated by a state agency, you only have a matter of months to file a notice of your claim. Also, any delay could result in the loss or destruction of evidence crucial to the success of your case.