Bus accidents can be very serious incidents in which the driver, passengers and other cars involved can sustain painful injuries that require medical treatment. Amidst the accumulating medical bills and recovery period, a bus rider may wonder if they are able to receive financial repayment for their injury costs. Particularly for those who sustained more serious or even life-threatening conditions, may find themselves enduring severe financial distress. A bus passenger may then wonder what their options are, and how they can go about seeking restitution.
In this article, we have answered many of the common questions bus riders have after being involved in a bus collision.
What if I feel decent after the bus accident, should I still see a doctor?
It is recommended that a bus passenger who is involved in an accident gets a medical evaluation, just in case. Sometimes our body does not show symptoms of injuries until hours or days later. Unless the accident was a small bumper collision where both vehicles were going at a very slow speed and there were no visible damages to either vehicle, then you may want to see a doctor.
Who may be responsible for my injury costs?
If the bus driver was at-fault for the accident happening, then a passenger may be able to sue him or her for costs of medical care. Many people choose to consult with an attorney about their rights and legal options before filing a lawsuit.
What information should I collect from the bus driver?
Just as if you were involved in any other kind of vehicle accident, you will want to exchange information with the person who was driving. Here is a list of details you should gather at the scene:
- Bus driver name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, insurance company & bus license plate
- Contact information of any bystanders or witnesses who stopped to help
- Evidence of the accident, including pictures of noticeable injuries, the scene of the collision and bus damages
When should I seek help from an attorney?
If your injuries extend past what the standard first aid kit can offer, than you may want to get help from a legal professional. If you have a pile of medical bills to pay, a personal injury lawyer Lakeland FL trusts can offer guidance on how to go about seeking repayment from the person responsible for the accident.
What should I bring to an appointment with an attorney?
Bring all paperwork that is related to the accident and your resulting injuries. Examples of helpful documents can include a copy of your physical exam, diagnostics, emergency care, current treatment plan, loss of pay due to missing work, police report and photographs taken at the scene.
What if it was a mechanical malfunction that caused the accident?
It is possible that the bus driver was not at-fault for the accident, and it instead happened as a result of a mechanical issue or engine malfunction. If this if the case, then you may be able to sue the party who owns the bus and is responsible for keeping up with proper maintenance.
Thank you to our contributors at the David & Philpot, P.L. law firm for the information of bus accident injuries.