Bus Accident Injuries

Accidents involving buses in Tennessee can lead to major injuries and property damage, not only to passengers on the bus but also those inside other vehicles and even innocent bystanders. Bus drivers and bus companies have an enhanced duty of care that they owe their passengers and others. Unfortunately, when individuals sustain injuries, recovering compensation from the actual parties can be challenging.

Bus Accident Injuries

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents, unfortunately, occur with some frequency and can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Some of the most common causes of these incidents include:

  • Driver Fatigue. Long hours on the road without adequate rest can lead to driver fatigue. Bus drivers often work extended shifts, sometimes without proper breaks, which can impair their reaction times and decision-making abilities. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations on driving hours to combat this, but violations still occur.
  • Distracted Driving. Using mobile phones, eating, or interacting with passengers can divert a driver’s attention from the road. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents across all vehicle types, including buses. 
  • Speeding and Reckless Driving. Excessive speed is a significant risk factor. Buses, due to their size and weight, require more time and distance to stop. 
  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure that buses are safe for operation. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and engine problems, can lead to accidents. Bus companies are responsible for adhering to maintenance schedules and conducting thorough inspections.
  • Inadequate Training. Bus drivers need comprehensive training to handle the complexities of operating large vehicles. Insufficient training can lead to improper handling, especially in emergency situations. 
  • Road Conditions. Poorly maintained roads, with potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage, can pose risks to buses

How Can a Bus Accident Lawyer Help?

A motor vehicle crash lawyer in Nashville is going to be an incredible tool for you and your family as you move forward with your claim. The role of a lawyer is multifaceted and includes:

  • Handling all communication with every other party involved in the case
  • Conducting a complete investigation into the incident
  • Helping you properly calculate your losses with help from medical and financial professionals
  • Negotiating with insurance carriers to recover the compensation you are entitled to

If necessary, our team will be ready to take your case to trial period we do not back down, and we are not in a hurry to accept quick settlement offers that are not in your best interest.

What Type of Injuries Can Occur?

Bus accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. Common injuries include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries. Sudden stops or collisions can cause rapid head movement, leading to neck strain.
  • Head and brain injuries. Passengers can suffer concussions or traumatic brain injuries from hitting their heads.
  • Spinal injuries. The impact can cause herniated discs or spinal fractures, leading to long-term disabilities.
  • Broken bones. Fractures are common due to the force of the accident.
  • Lacerations and bruises. Broken glass and debris can cause cuts and contusions.
  • Internal injuries. The force of the impact can damage internal organs, requiring immediate medical attention.

How Much Compensation Is Available?

There is no specific amount of compensation available after a bus accident occurs in Tennessee. In general, a successful claim will help bus accident victims recover a few specific types of damages, including economic and non economic damages.

The goal is to help cover all of the victim’s expenses, to help them receive compensation to become “whole” or at least as whole as possible. This includes recovering compensation for medical expenses, property damage losses, lost wages if a person is unable to work while they recover, as well as a range of physical and emotional pain and suffering damages.

Who is Liable After a Bus Accident in Tennessee?

Determining liability for a bus accident in Tennessee involves examining various factors and potential parties. Several entities may be held accountable depending on the circumstances of the accident:

  • Bus Driver. If the bus driver’s negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, caused the accident, they can be held liable. Evidence such as eyewitness testimony, traffic camera footage, and the driver’s logbook can be crucial in establishing fault.
  • Bus Company. The bus company may be liable if the accident resulted from inadequate maintenance, improper driver training, or violation of safety regulations. Companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are in good working condition and their drivers are adequately trained and rested.
  • Vehicle Manufacturers. If a defect in the bus or its parts contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held responsible. This includes issues like brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical defects that can lead to accidents.
  • Government Entities. Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or faulty traffic signals can contribute to accidents. In such cases, the government entity responsible for road maintenance and traffic control may be liable. However, suing a government entity involves specific legal procedures and shorter deadlines.
  • Third-Party Drivers. If another driver’s actions, such as reckless driving or failing to yield, caused the bus accident, that driver could be held liable. Investigations will look into the behavior of all drivers involved to determine fault.
  • Pedestrians and Cyclists. In some cases, pedestrians or cyclists may be at fault if their actions, such as jaywalking or cycling inappropriately, lead to an accident.
  • Maintenance Contractors. If a third-party company was responsible for maintaining the bus and failed to do so adequately, leading to a malfunction and subsequent accident, they could be held liable.

How Quickly Should You File Your Claim?

In general, Nashville personal injury claims, including bus accident claims, must be filed within one year from the date the incident occurs. Typically, failing to file a lawsuit within this specific time frame will result in the injury victim becoming unable to recover compensation for their losses. We strongly encourage you to speak to a skilled bus accident lawyer with extensive experience handling complex claims throughout Nashville and this state.