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Thousands of people across Washington, D.C., rely on buses to get to work and school. When these large, heavy vehicles like buses get in accidents, they can leave victims with catastrophic damage and life-altering injuries. Bus accident victims often face overwhelming medical bills, extended periods of forced time off work, and long-lasting emotional trauma.
If you have suffered injuries in a bus crash in the Capital Area, an experienced bus accident lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim to demand compensation for these and other losses. The skilled bus accident attorneys at Marks & Harrison have served injured DC residents for over a century. Call or contact us online now for a free consultation, and let’s hold the at-fault party accountable for their negligence.
What Are Common Causes of Washington DC Bus Accidents?
Bus accidents in Washington DC can occur for a variety of reasons.
Some of the common causes of bus accidents in Washington DC include:
- Bus driver negligence, such as distracted driving, fatigued driving, or driving under the influence
- Inadequate driver training or experience
- Poorly maintained buses or equipment failure
- Hazardous road conditions
- Negligence of other drivers on the road
When these or other issues lead to an accident, injured victims have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party. A bus accident attorney can help you hold them accountable for their wrongdoing.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in Bus Accidents?
Due to their size and weight, buses can cause severe damage and injuries to whoever they hit.
Some of the most common injuries suffered by bus accident victims include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains
- Neck and back injuries
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Lacerations and contusions
- Internal organ damage
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can dramatically affect a victim’s life. Severe injuries can turn into long-term impairments, while the trauma of the accident and the stress of its consequences can lead to mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Contact our Washington DC bus accident lawyer today.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bus Accident in Washington DC?
Determining liability in a bus accident case can be complex, as multiple parties may share fault.
Some of the parties that may potentially be held liable for a bus accident include:
- The bus driver, if their negligence caused the accident
- The bus company, if it failed to train or supervise the driver properly
- The entity responsible for bus maintenance, if a mechanical failure led to the crash
- Another driver, if their actions contributed to the accident
- A government entity, particularly in the case of Metrobus accidents
- The school district, if the accident involved a school bus
A knowledgeable Washington DC bus accident attorney can thoroughly investigate the accident to determine liability and build a strong case for compensation.
What Damages Could I Recover from My Washington DC Bus Accident?
All bus accident claims are unique. The compensation you are eligible to recover in yours will depend on factors such as the nature of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the other losses you have suffered.
A Washington DC bus accident attorney can help you seek compensation for any:
- Medical expenses you have incurred as a result of your accident-related injuries
- Lost income due to the time your injuries have caused you to miss at work
- Reduced earning capacity if you are no longer able to perform your previous job
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If you have lost a loved one in a bus accident, an attorney can file a wrongful death claim to pursue compensation for this tragic outcome.
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Washington DC Bus Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations in Washington DC requires bus accident victims to file any personal injury lawsuit within three years of the accident date. You have even less time if you intend to bring a claim against a government entity, such as the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) or a school bus operator. In government bus accident cases, you must file a Notice of Claim within six months of the collision date.
If you miss these deadlines, you may be barred from recovering the compensation you deserve. Consulting with a knowledgeable bus accident lawyer as soon as possible can help you file your claims promptly and pursue them efficiently.
Do I Need a Washington DC Bus Accident Attorney?
While you are not required to hire an attorney to handle your bus accident claim, working with an experienced lawyer can provide many advantages. Insurance companies often take advantage of unrepresented accident victims, finding ways to minimize or reject their claims. Having legal representation can level the playing field so you have a fair chance of securing a successful result in your case.
A skilled attorney with experience handling bus accident cases can:
- Investigate your accident and gather evidence to support your claim
- Help you navigate Washington, D.C.’s unique traffic accident laws
- Handle communications with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf
- Accurately assess the total extent of your losses and pursue fair compensation
- Negotiate aggressively with the insurance company for a favorable settlement
- Take your case to trial if necessary to demand maximum compensation
Contact a Washington DC Bus Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of a bus accident can be so overwhelming that you might not know how to begin rebuilding your life. While you have the right to pursue an accident claim, it is a complex process – especially when you are still recovering from your crash-related injuries. However, it is crucial to remember that you do not have to walk this path alone. Contact our Washington DC personal injury lawyer today.
The compassionate Washington DC bus accident attorneys at Marks & Harrison are ready to give you the support and advocacy you need at this challenging time. We are ready to fight for your rights, handling every aspect of your claim while you focus on healing. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
