Bus Accident Injuries and Recovery
While buses are a common form of transportation in San Diego, accidents can and do happen. MTS-Bus, a public transportation provider in San Diego, operates bus routes throughout the region. The MTS-Bus has 103 bus routes in San Diego with 4182 bus stops.
If you have been injured in a bus accident in California, the Law Offices of Keith J. Stone is here to help. As one of the recognized San Diego personal injury attorneys, we have extensive experience in complex California bus accident cases and can help you navigate the path to recovery.
Common Bus Accident Injuries
Injuries sustained in bus accidents range from minor to life-altering. Here are some of the most common injuries victims might face:
- Whiplash: Sudden jolts and stops can cause neck and spinal injuries known as whiplash.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a bus crash can easily lead to broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and more.
- Head Injuries: Head traumas, from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are a major risk.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs, causing bleeding and other serious complications.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in permanent paralysis.
- Psychological Trauma: Bus accidents often inflict emotional scars such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you have been injured in a bus accident in California, seek medical attention immediately. It is also important to understand your legal rights and consider speaking to an attorney to protect your interests.
Considerations When Handling Bus Accident Injury Claims
California bus accident claims can be complex, especially if the bus was operated by a government entity. There are specific laws and deadlines you must be aware of:
- Statute of Limitations: In California, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Exceptions exist for minors and claims against government agencies.
- Notice of Claim: If the bus was government-owned, you may be required to file a Notice of Claim within a very short timeframe – as little as 6 months.
Bus accident injury claims, especially those involving government-run buses, require careful attention to complex laws and deadlines. Do not attempt to handle the process on your own. Consulting with an experienced San Diego personal injury attorney as soon as possible is vital.
What You Can Recover for Your Bus Accident Injury
If you were injured in a bus accident due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to missed work.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: Compensation if the accident impacts your ability to earn a living in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was tragically killed in a bus accident.
Bus accident injuries can upend your life, both physically and financially. A successful bus accident claim can provide you with essential resources while you focus on healing.
How a Bus Accident Attorney Can Help
The aftermath of a bus accident is overwhelming. A skilled San Diego personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the Accident: Determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies: Fight aggressively to obtain a fair settlement.
- Represent You in Court: Take your case to trial if a settlement cannot be reached.
If you or a loved one has suffered bus accident injuries, bus accident recovery can be a long and difficult road; do not face it alone. The Law Offices of Keith J. Stone will provide compassionate representation and fight for the bus accident compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.