Dealing with a major car accident is never easy. Medical expenses and possibly losing days of work can seriously impact your finances. In such times, suing the one responsible for your injuries may help you financially.
If a public transport bus hits you, there could be more than one possible responsible party you may sue for compensation.
The bus driver
Public bus drivers are often the first party to take the blame for car accidents. After all, they have a duty to operate the bus safely and follow traffic rules. If the driver’s negligence or reckless behavior contributed to the accident, you might be able to sue them individually.
The bus company or transit authority
The bus company or local transit authority usually shares responsibility for the actions of the drivers they employ. As the employer, they must ensure their drivers are qualified and properly trained. The company or transit authority also has the responsibility of ensuring proper maintenance of their bus fleet.
If the company failed in any of these duties, leading to your accident, you may have grounds for a lawsuit against them.
The government entity
In some cases, a government entity might be at fault. This could happen if the accident resulted from poor road conditions or inadequate signage. Moreover, there are cases where a local or municipal entity operates the public bus.
Take note that suing a government or municipal entity is often more challenging since special rules and deadlines may apply. It’s usually best to seek legal assistance so you don’t miss any requirements.
Other third parties
You may also file a lawsuit against other parties that might share responsibility. These include:
- Bus manufacturer: If a mechanical failure or defective part caused the accident
- Bus maintenance company: If the accident was due to improper vehicle maintenance
- Other car drivers: If another driver caused the bus to crash into you or your vehicle
Proving liability through proper investigation
It’s essential to conduct a thorough investigation to know who’s truly responsible for the accident. This includes reviewing the bus maintenance records, interviewing witnesses, and collecting photos and videos. Working with an experienced attorney can help you build a strong case and receive your due compensation.