Bus accidents can cause serious injury to you or your loved ones. The size of these vehicles and lack of safety protection for individual riders can make the harm even more severe than in other motor vehicle accidents. If you were recently injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation from those at fault. 

A Charlottesville bus accident lawyer from MichieHamlett can guide you through the claim process with the advocacy of an experienced trial firm. Our personal injury attorneys take an aggressive, trial-ready approach to help you secure maximum compensation for your losses.

Establishing Fault After a Bus Accident

Bus accidents can occur in a variety of settings and circumstances, and those details may determine who is at fault and legally responsible for the resulting injuries. The following examples of wrongful acts or negligence while driving can establish another party’s liability: 

  • Failing to yield the right of way
  • Speeding 
  • Tailgating 
  • Running stop signs and red lights 
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs 
  • Distracted driving                                                                                                         

Our bus accident lawyers in Charlottesville can investigate every aspect of a collision to identify all parties who may bear liability. This may include reviewing police accident reports, bus driver logs, witness testimony, and other forms of relevant evidence. 

How Deadlines Can Affect a Bus Accident Injury Claim

Bus accident injury claims can be difficult to navigate due to the specialized rules and issues that often arise in these cases. One key factor is who owns and operates the bus, which can determine your rights and the process that you must follow to initiate a claim. Under Virginia Code § 15.2-209 and § 8.01-195.6, claims against government-owned and operated buses are subject to special notice requirements. Claims involving local government entities typically require six months’ notice, while claims against the Commonwealth of Virginia usually require one year. 

In comparison, claims against non-government bus companies are generally subject to the two-year statute of limitations under Virginia Code § 8.01-243. Missing these deadlines can prevent an injured person from recovering compensation for their damages. An experienced Charlottesville bus crash attorney can help determine which notice and filing requirements apply to a particular case. 

What Damages May Be Available After a Bus Accident?

The severity of the injuries and their impact on daily life often determine which damages are available after a bus accident. Our Charlottesville bus collision lawyers can help injured individuals pursue compensation for losses such as: 

  • Medical care expenses 
  • Lost income or wages 
  • Physical therapy and other rehabilitative care costs 
  • Pain and suffering 
  • Lost quality or enjoyment of life 
  • Losses affecting family relationships 

We will consider every unique circumstance of the case, including the injured person’s age, career, and family dependents, to craft compelling arguments that support maximum recovery. 

Contact Us to Consult with a Charlottesville Bus Accident Attorney

After suffering an injury, you can take the next step in asserting your rights by meeting with a Charlottesville bus accident lawyer at MichieHamlett. We are known for our strong trial experience and our commitment to guiding injured individuals through every step of a claim. Contact our office today to schedule a free case consultation.