Bus Accident Lawyers

If you’re facing serious injuries in or Texas due to another person’s or corporation’s negligence, recklessness, dangerous actions, car or truck accident, or faulty products, it’s crucial to get legal representation from Dunham & Jones, the Trusted Texas Personal Injury Attorneys. Dunham & Jones can help you recover compensation for medical costs, income losses, pain, suffering, and other damages through a meticulously crafted personal injury or wrongful death claim in Texas. Call 888-222-9746 now for your free injury case review and discuss your case in detail.

Involved in a Bus Accident? Call Dunham & Jones Today at 888-222-9746

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident or struck by a bus, the injuries you sustain could affect you for months or even years. It’s crucial to consult with a bus accident lawyer who prioritizes your best interests before it’s too late. Reach out to Dunham & Jones at 888-222-9746 to discuss your injuries today. With a legacy of representing individuals and families throughout Texas since 1989, Dunham & Jones is a trusted name in the field. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident anywhere in Texas, call 888-222-9746 to speak with one of their dedicated bus accident lawyers. The consultation about your injury case is free, and you won’t incur any costs, including for expert witnesses, until after your case is settled.

Reasons to Hire Dunham & Jones as Your Bus Accident Lawyers in Texas

1. Understanding the Trauma: Being in a bus accident is a traumatic experience. Our bus accident lawyers will explain your legal options in detail, so you are fully equipped to make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
2. Limited Time to File: Your time to file a lawsuit may be limited. In Texas, crash victims typically have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a claim, known as the statute of limitations.
3. Comprehensive Support: Dunham & Jones has the resources to handle every aspect of your injury case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with the insurance company, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
4. Statewide Presence: As a large law firm, Dunham & Jones has staffed offices throughout Texas, ensuring local support wherever you are.
5. Client Communication: Our bus accident lawyers prioritize clear communication with personal injury clients.
6. Client-Focused Results: Our primary goal is to help clients achieve the best possible results they deserve.
7. No Win, No Fee: You won’t pay Dunham & Jones anything unless you win your case.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Texas

Bus accidents, involving city buses, school buses, and private buses, are often preventable and occur due to negligence or failure to exercise proper care. If a bus accident could have been avoided with ordinary care, the negligent party is liable for related losses. Determining the cause of your bus accident is essential before proceeding with a claim.

Common causes of bus accidents include:

1. Bus driver error
2. Bus driver fatigue
3. Driving under the influence of drugs
4. Driving while intoxicated
5. Missed stoplights or stop signs
6. Failure to yield the right-of-way
7. Driving over the speed limit
8. Reckless driving
9. Lack of bus maintenance
10. Vehicle part breakdowns
11. Weather conditions

If a bus driver caused the accident, liability likely falls on the entity employing the driver, such as a school district, city government, or bus company. This entity is also responsible for maintaining its fleet. Liability could also fall on a third party, such as another driver or a bus part manufacturer. If you’re unsure what caused your bus accident or who is responsible, Dunham & Jones injury lawyers can investigate on your behalf.

What Makes Bus Accidents Complex in Texas?

Bus accident claims in Texas are significantly more complicated than traditional car accident claims for several reasons:

1. Severity of Injuries: Bus accidents are more likely to result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of buses. Passengers on buses typically aren’t restrained, increasing their risk of injury. Additionally, the impact on other vehicles involved in the accident tends to be more severe due to the bus’s mass.
2. Multiple Victims: The presence of multiple victims complicates the claims process. Insurance carriers and legal teams will meticulously scrutinize claims involving numerous injuries or fatalities, adding layers of complexity.
3. More Vehicles Involved: Bus accidents often involve multiple vehicles, complicating the determination of liability and the claims process.
4. Multiple Liable Parties: Various parties could be held liable for bus accidents, including drivers, bus companies, government entities, maintenance teams, and more. Identifying and proving liability among these parties can be challenging.
5. Complex Insurance Coverage: Bus companies typically have intricate insurance structures with multiple layers of coverage that activate under specific conditions. Navigating these complex insurance policies can delay the claims process.
6. State and Federal Regulations: Bus accidents often trigger investigations from state and federal regulators. The type of bus involved can determine which regulations and regulatory bodies apply, adding further complexity to the case.
7. Government Claim Issues: If the bus is operated by a government or public entity, recovering compensation becomes even more complex. Filing injury claims against a government entity involves additional legal hurdles and procedures compared to claims against private parties.

Given these complexities, it’s crucial to have an experienced Texas bus accident lawyer on your side. At Dunham & Jones, we understand the unique challenges of bus accident cases and are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process to secure the compensation you deserve. Call 888-222-9746 for a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable bus accident lawyers today.

10 Common Injuries from a Bus Accident

Bus accidents often result in significant injuries for all parties involved, including bus passengers, occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. At our firm, we have extensive experience helping victims of bus accidents recover from various injuries. Ten common injuries we frequently handle include:

1. Brain Injuries: These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, often requiring long-term care and rehabilitation.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries with Paralysis: Spinal cord damage can lead to partial or complete paralysis, profoundly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
3. Concussions: Even minor head impacts can cause concussions, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties.
4. Whiplash Injuries: These neck injuries are common in vehicle accidents and can cause significant pain and limited mobility.
5. Dislocated Bones or Joint Dislocations: The force of a bus accident can easily dislocate joints, requiring medical intervention and rehabilitation.
6. Broken Bones: Fractures are common in bus accidents and may require surgery, casting, and extensive recovery periods.
7. Burn Injuries: In cases where a fire breaks out, victims can suffer severe burn injuries, necessitating specialized medical treatment.
8. Crush Injuries: The sheer weight of a bus can cause crush injuries, which can lead to severe complications and require immediate medical attention.
9. Amputations: In extreme cases, the severity of injuries may necessitate the amputation of limbs.
10. Laceration Wounds: Deep cuts and lacerations can cause significant blood loss and may require stitches or more extensive surgical treatment.

In addition to these physical injuries, it’s essential to recognize the emotional and psychological trauma that can result from a bus accident. Victims often experience stress, anxiety, fear, sleeplessness, and other symptoms. In some cases, individuals may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

When seeking compensation for bus accident victims, it’s crucial to account for both visible physical injuries and non-visible emotional and psychological impacts. Our experienced Texas injury lawyers are dedicated to ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve for all aspects of your suffering. Call us today at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation.

Types of Bus Accident Claims in Texas

Throughout Texas, various types of buses are operated by both private companies and public systems. These include:

• City Buses
• School Buses
• Regional Carriers like Greyhound and Megabus
• Private & Charter Bus Systems
• Passenger Shuttle Vans
• Large Shuttle Buses

It’s crucial to identify the type of bus carrier or operator involved in your bus accident, as there are significant differences between pursuing a claim against a private company and a government entity.

Private vs. Government Entities

The approach to personal injury lawsuits can vary greatly depending on whether the bus is operated by a private company or a government entity. Private companies and public systems are subject to different regulations, and claims against government entities often involve additional legal complexities.

Financial Considerations in Your Settlement

At Dunham & Jones, we understand the financial burden that can follow a bus accident. It’s possible that attorney fees may be a separate line item in your settlement. This means you can use your settlement funds for medical expenses, caring for your family, or other needs without worrying about paying your lawyer out of those proceeds. In some cases, court costs may also be included in your settlement, allowing you to receive the full benefit of your financial award.

Contingency Fee Basis

Our goal is to alleviate financial stress for our clients after a harmful accident. Our bus, car, and truck accident lawyers offer services on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay any attorney’s fees unless we win your case. If we successfully collect financial compensation on your behalf, our fees are taken as a percentage of the settlement or jury verdict, not out of your pocket. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can significantly increase the value of your bus accident settlement, even after deducting attorney’s fees.

For comprehensive legal assistance and to maximize your compensation, contact Dunham & Jones today at 888-222-9746. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality legal counsel and ensuring you receive the full benefit of your settlement.

Bus Accident Lawyers Who Know How to Win in Texas

In a Texas bus accident lawsuit, the burden of proof rests with the plaintiff, meaning you must prove the elements of your injury case. A skilled bus accident lawyer from Dunham & Jones understands how to establish that you were the victim in your injury case. Most importantly, our attorneys will demonstrate that negligence by the bus driver, the bus company, or the bus manufacturer caused the crash.

Proving Negligence in a Bus Accident

Bus Driver Negligence

Negligence by the bus driver could be established in several ways, including:

• Failing to stop or avoid you while you were in a crosswalk.
• Operating the bus while tired, impaired, or distracted.
• Lacking proper licensing to drive the bus, which would also indicate negligence on the part of their employer for inadequate hiring practices.

Manufacturer Negligence

Negligence on behalf of the manufacturer occurs if the bus was made with a known defect, such as:

• Faulty lights.
• Improperly fitting or defective brakes.
• Any other defect that compromises safety.

Even if the manufacturer did not intend harm, it’s still responsible for the safety of its products.

Dunham & Jones Approach to Bus Accidents

Dunham & Jones experienced bus accident lawyers will:

• Gather and present evidence to prove negligence.
• Interview witnesses and work with experts to reconstruct the accident.
• Review maintenance records, driver logs, and other crucial documents.
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.

At Dunham & Jones, we know how to navigate the complexities of bus accident cases in Texas. We are committed to proving negligence and securing the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, contact us at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation and let our knowledgeable attorneys fight for your rights.

Finding Liable Parties in a Bus Accident

In the aftermath of a bus accident in Texas, multiple parties may be held liable. Liability can extend beyond the bus operator to other drivers, entities, or agencies involved in the operation or maintenance of the bus. Understanding who may be liable is crucial for pursuing a successful claim.

Common Liable Parties in a Bus Accident

• The Bus Driver: If the driver’s negligence, such as distracted driving, impairment, or fatigue, caused the accident, they could be held personally liable.
• The Company or Agency Operating the Bus: The operator, whether a private company or public transit agency, may be liable for hiring practices, training, and supervision.
• Public Transit Agencies: Government-operated buses can implicate public transit authorities in liability claims.
• School Districts: If a school bus is involved, the school district might be held responsible for the actions of the bus driver and the maintenance of the bus.
• Bus Manufacturer: If a defect in the bus contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be liable.
• Auto Parts Manufacturer: If a specific part failure led to the accident, the parts manufacturer could be held accountable.
• Third-Party Mechanics: Maintenance providers responsible for the bus’s upkeep may be liable if improper maintenance contributed to the crash.

Filing Claims Against Public Entities After a Bus Accident

Claims against public entities, including school districts and public bus operators, have specific procedures and deadlines. These claims can be more complex than those against private companies due to the additional legal requirements.

Why You Need an Experienced Bus Accident Lawyer

Given the complexities involved in identifying and proving liability, it’s essential to consult with an experienced bus accident lawyer as soon as possible. At Dunham & Jones, we are well-versed in handling these intricate cases and can help you navigate the legal process efficiently. Our team will ensure that all claims are filed correctly and within the appropriate time frame.

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, contact Dunham & Jones at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable lawyers are here to help you determine liability and secure the compensation you deserve.

What Happens if I’m Partially Responsible for the Bus Accident?

In some cases, the bus driver or other responsible party might claim that you were fully or partially responsible for the crash. They may argue that you were walking in a crosswalk without permission or that you distracted the driver before the accident occurred.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Texas

Under Texas law, you are entitled to partial damages as long as you are not found to be 51% or more responsible for the accident. This is known as the comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be partially responsible, either through a settlement or a jury decision, your compensation will be adjusted accordingly.

How Partial Responsibility Affects Your Compensation

If you’re found to be partially responsible for the accident, you’ll receive a proportional amount of the damages. For example, if you are awarded $500,000 but are deemed to be 50% responsible, you would receive $250,000. The percentage of your responsibility directly reduces your compensation.

Multiple Parties Sharing Responsibility

In scenarios where multiple parties share responsibility, you’ll receive your compensation first, and the other parties will determine among themselves who covers the remaining costs. This ensures that you’re compensated for your injuries and losses without unnecessary delays.

Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating claims of partial responsibility requires experienced personal injury attorneys. At Dunham & Jones, our knowledgeable bus accident lawyers will work to minimize your degree of fault and maximize your compensation. We are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident and are facing claims of partial responsibility, call Dunham & Jones at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation. Our legal team is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the best possible outcome.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To After a Bus Accident

If you’ve been harmed in a bus crash in Texas, various types of compensation may be available to you. At Dunham & Jones, our goal is to ensure that our clients recover both “special” (economic) and “general” (non-economic) damages from a bus accident.

Special Damages (Economic Damages)

Special damages, also known as economic damages, cover calculable expenses that bus crash victims are likely to incur after the accident. Common economic damages include:

1. Emergency Room Visits: Costs associated with immediate medical care following the accident.
2. Hospital Bills: Expenses for hospital stays and treatments.
3. Follow-up Doctor Visits: Costs for ongoing medical care and consultations.
4. Prescription Medication: Expenses for medications required as part of your recovery.
5. Medical Equipment: Costs for medical aids such as wheelchairs, braces, or other necessary devices.
6. Physical Therapy: Expenses for rehabilitation and physical therapy sessions.
7. Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work.
8. Property Damage Expenses: Costs for repairing or replacing damaged property.
9. Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Any other direct expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

General Damages (Non-Economic Damages)

General damages, or non-economic damages, cover losses that are not easily quantifiable. These include more subjective and intangible injuries, such as:

1. Physical Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical discomfort and pain endured.
2. Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Damages for mental anguish, stress, anxiety, and other psychological impacts.
3. Loss of Quality of Life: Compensation for a diminished ability to enjoy life and perform everyday activities.
4. Loss of Consortium: Damages for the impact on relationships with a spouse or family members.

Determining Total Compensation

The total amount of compensation for bus crash victims in Texas will vary based on several factors, including:

• Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation.
• Recovery Time: Longer recovery periods can increase compensation amounts.
• Inability to Work: The extent to which the injury affects your ability to work and earn income.
• Physical and Emotional Pain and Suffering: The degree of pain and suffering experienced due to the accident.

At Dunham & Jones, we’re committed to securing the maximum compensation for our clients. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, contact us at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation to discuss your case and the compensation you may be entitled to.

What Types of Evidence Will a Bus Accident Lawyer Use?

In a personal injury or wrongful death claim, the burden of proof is a preponderance of the evidence. This means you must prove that your claim is “more likely to be true than not true” or true with at least 51% certainty. A bus accident lawyer will use various types of evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. Here are some key types of evidence that may be utilized:

1. Witness Statements: Collecting statements from witnesses who saw the accident can provide crucial firsthand accounts of what happened.
2. Physical Evidence: Reviewing physical evidence from the scene, such as debris, skid marks, or damaged property, can help reconstruct the accident. This evidence may also be sent to experts for further examination.
3. Police Accident Report: The official report filed by law enforcement can provide important details about the accident, including the officer’s observations and any citations issued.
4. Medical Records: Your medical records documenting the extent and nature of your injuries are essential in proving the impact of the accident on your health and well-being.
5. Photographs and Video Footage: Visual evidence from the scene of the accident, including photos and videos, can vividly depict the circumstances and aftermath of the crash.
6. Expert Testimony: Testimonies from experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or engineers, can provide authoritative insights and strengthen your case.

Goal of Evidence Collection

The primary goal of collecting and presenting this evidence is to convince a jury that you deserve compensation or to add leverage in obtaining a quick and fair settlement. By thoroughly investigating and presenting compelling evidence, a Texas bus accident lawyer aims to ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, contact Dunham & Jones at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation. Our experienced injury attorneys are ready to gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case for you.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Bus Accident in Texas?

When filing an injury claim after a bus accident in Texas, you are subject to the state’s statute of limitations, which places a deadline on your right to file a lawsuit.

Standard Deadline for Personal Injury Claims in Texas

For most personal injury claims in Texas, including bus accidents, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident or the discovery of your injuries. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit, or you may lose your right to seek compensation.

Shorter Deadline for Claims Against Government Entities

If your claim involves a government entity, such as a city bus accident, you will have a shorter time limit to file your claim. In some cases, you may have as little as 90 days to notify the appropriate government entity of your intent to file a claim. Failing to meet this shorter deadline can also result in the loss of your right to compensation.

Importance of Timely Action

If you wait too long and miss your filing window, you could be ineligible for compensation. Therefore, it’s crucial to act quickly. Contact our experienced bus accident lawyers as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadlines.

At Dunham & Jones, we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your bus accident claim and securing the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 888-222-9746 for a free consultation and to get started on your case.

Call a Texas Bus Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

You’ve been through enough as the victim of a traumatic bus accident. Let a bus accident lawyer from Dunham & Jones take over your case and fight for your rights to ensure you obtain fair compensation. If you’re seeking experienced representation after your bus accident in Texas, contact us at 888-222-9746. Learn more about how we can help and start the legal process promptly for you.

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