Can You Sue a Bus Driver?
When you board a bus, you trust the bus driver to get you safely to your destination. But what happens if that trust is broken during a bus accident? Yes, you can sue a bus driver if their actions or negligence lead to an accident causing injury.
Understanding your legal rights in these situations is important, and at Tulekyan Law, we specialize in helping victims of bus accidents navigate the complexities of such cases.
Like all drivers, bus drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely. However, due to the size of the vehicles and the number of passengers involved, the consequences of a bus driver's negligence can be particularly severe.
Our experienced bus accident lawyer can help determine if you have a case against a bus driver or other parties involved in the accident. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive the guidance and representation necessary to pursue justice and compensation.
The Responsibility Bus Drivers Have To Passengers
Bus drivers hold a substantial duty of care towards their passengers. This responsibility means they must do everything reasonably possible to ensure passenger safety.
Whether driving a school bus, a public transit bus, or a private tour bus, drivers must adhere to high safety standards to prevent accidents and injuries, including brain injuries.
The expectations for bus drivers include strict adherence to traffic laws, maintaining a high level of attentiveness, and effectively managing all driving conditions.
Bus drivers can be held liable for injuries caused by failing to meet these standards. Our law firm is skilled at identifying breaches in these duties and pursuing rightful claims for damages on behalf of accident victims.
Why Do Bus Drivers Get Involved in Accidents?
Several factors contribute to bus accidents, many stemming from driver actions or inactions:
- Distraction: Bus drivers can become distracted by electronic devices, passengers, or events outside the bus. Such distractions can lead to critical errors in judgment and accidents.
- Fatigue: Many bus drivers work long hours on challenging schedules, leading to fatigue. Tired drivers are less alert and have slower reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Pressure from employers: Sometimes, bus companies pressure drivers to adhere to tight schedules, which can encourage speeding or negligent driving behaviors. This could include pressure on a school bus driver, leading to a school bus accident.
- Lack of proper training: Proper training is essential for bus drivers. Inadequate training on safety protocols and bus operations can result in serious accidents.
- Poor health: If a bus driver is not in good health due to illness or the influence of medications, their ability to operate the bus safely can be compromised.
Common Causes of Bus Driver Negligence
Bus driver negligence can manifest in several ways, potentially leading to hazardous situations.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the top causes of all vehicle accidents, including bus accidents. A bus driver must focus fully on the road to avoid critical cues leading to collisions.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous and illegal. Such behavior severely impairs a driver's ability to operate a bus safely.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding and reckless driving are serious risks, especially in a large bus that requires more time to stop and is less maneuverable than smaller vehicles.
Failure to Follow Traffic Laws
Bus drivers must obey all traffic laws. Failure to do so can lead to accidents that could have been prevented with lawful driving.
Inadequate Training or Experience
A properly trained bus driver is better equipped to handle the vast array of situations on the road. Lack of training can lead to errors in judgment that cause accidents.
Not Every Accident Is the Fault of the Bus Driver
It's important to recognize that not all bus accidents are due to driver error. External factors such as vehicle malfunctions, actions of other drivers, or hazardous road conditions also play roles. Understanding the exact cause of the accident is necessary for directing legal actions correctly.
Sometimes, driver negligence could be a problem originating from higher up, such as insufficient safety policies by the bus company or improper vehicle maintenance.
Potential Defendants in a Bus Accident Lawsuit
In a bus accident lawsuit, several parties might be held liable:
The Bus Driver
Direct litigation against the driver is an option if the driver's negligence, such as distracted driving or disobeying traffic laws, contributed to the accident.
The Bus Company
The bus company can often be held liable, especially if their negligence in hiring practices, training, or vehicle maintenance contributed to the accident.
Third Parties (e.g., Maintenance Providers, Other Drivers)
Maintenance providers who failed to properly service the bus or other drivers whose actions contributed to the accident might also be defendants in the lawsuit. We can pursue cases against third parties on behalf of our clients.
The Role of Your Bus Accident Lawyer in Your Case
A skilled bus accident lawyer is vital in dealing with the complexities of bus accident claims. Our attorneys at Tulekyan Law are dedicated to investigating every aspect of your accident. We work to gather evidence, identify all liable parties, and articulate a compelling case on your behalf.
We negotiate diligently with insurance companies and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. We handle all the legal details, allowing you to focus on recovery and healing.
Common Challenges in Suing a Bus Driver
- Proving negligence: Demonstrating that the bus driver's actions met the legal definition of negligence can be challenging.
- Complex legal requirements: Bus accident cases involve complicated regulations and legal standards.
- Dealing with large entities: Often, you're up against large bus companies or government entities with substantial legal resources.
Factors Influencing the Value of Your Case
- Severity of injuries: The more severe the injury, the higher the potential compensation. Severe injuries come with larger medical bills, which create larger settlements.
- Impact on life quality: How the injuries affect your daily life and capabilities substantially determines compensation.
- Economic losses: This includes medical bills and lost wages due to the inability to work. We can pursue compensation for additional economic losses.
Our Burbank Bus Accident Lawyer Is Ready To Fight for You
At Tulekyan Law, we are prepared to take on your bus accident case with the seriousness and dedication it deserves. We understand the devastating impact a bus accident can have on your life, and we are committed to achieving justice for you.
Our approach involves personalized attention to your case, thorough investigation, and aggressive representation in negotiations and court. We strive to secure your maximum compensation while providing support and guidance throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do bus accidents happen?
Bus accidents can occur due to driver negligence, mechanical failures, or unsafe road conditions.
How can I prove the bus company was negligent?
You can prove the bus company was negligent by demonstrating that the bus company
led to meeting specific safety standards or regulations.
Can I sue the bus company and bus driver?
You can sue the bus driver and company if both contributed to the accident through negligence or other wrongful actions.
Contact Our Burbank Bus Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you or someone you love has been involved in a bus accident, Tulekyan Law will help you. Our experienced Burbank bus accident lawyer will review your case and discuss how we can help you pursue justice and compensation.
Our Burbank bus accident attorney can negotiate with the insurance company and hold city bus and school bus drivers accountable. Seek medical attention first. Then, contact us today to schedule a free case consultation to discuss your personal injury lawsuit.
