Auburn Bus Accident Lawyer

Both public and private transportation is made easier and more efficient by buses. Many individuals rely on buses for their morning commute or as a cost-effective option to travel. Unfortunately, the consequences are often severe and long-lasting when an automobile accident involves a bus.

If you sustained injuries in a common carrier collision, it can be difficult to accurately determine who is responsible. An Auburn bus accident lawyer could help you navigate the legal complexities in common carrier wreck cases that often involve multiple parties. Reach out to a seasoned personal injury attorney to discuss the details of your crash.

Theories of Liability in a Bus Crash Case

Bus accident cases can present a legal challenge, given the number of parties involved. Determining liability in these situations is often nuanced and depends on the nature of the accident and the injuries sustained. Because of the complexity often associated with bus collision claims, it is important that any individual injured in a wreck with a common carrier contact an experienced Auburn attorney immediately for help deciding when, how, and even who to sue.

Some bus crashes are litigated under the theory of negligence. Negligence is a broad legal principle that requires certain standards of care from individuals and corporations operating in society.

If simple negligence is the main theory of the case, it is likely that the negligence of the bus driver or other motorist caused the accident. In this situation, a lawyer will likely sue the bus driver and the bus company. The bus company may be held responsible for the actions of its employees under a theory of law called vicarious liability.

While the negligent actions of a bus driver or other motorist can cause a common carrier accident, a failure to maintain the bus and equipment in a safe condition can also be the culprit. If this is the case, a diligent bus accident attorney in Auburn might choose to sue the bus company as well. The bus company is responsible for the upkeep of the buses in their fleet and might therefore be liable for contributing to mechanical issues linked to the bus accident.

When evaluating an Auburn bus collision case, a determined lawyer will also consider whether there was any mechanical failure in the bus that was not linked to the upkeep by the bus company. In this case, the bus equipment manufacturer might be liable for the accident. A knowledgeable attorney would likely pursue this under a theory of product liability—which requires manufacturers, retailers, and distributors to take certain levels of care in ensuring the safety of their products.

Damages in a Common Carrier Accident Claim

When injuries like those sustained in a bus accident are extensive, they can require long-term recovery and the expenses associated with rehabilitation. Not only can injured parties have medical bills from ambulance drives and emergency rooms, but they might also have to take periods off work or even be unable to maintain their employment. These types of damages are known in the law as economic, compensatory damages.

In addition to the economic expenses that often accompany bus accident injuries, there are certain non-economic damages that injured parties may be entitled to as well. An example of these types of damages is the emotional distress an individual may endure because of the wreck.

In any discussion of compensation, it is important to note that Washington follows a legal theory called comparative negligence. When applied, comparative negligence reduces the amount of compensation an injured party is entitled to by the percentage of responsibility the court apportions to them. A well-practiced bus collision lawyer in Auburn could help provide individuals with a clearer picture of the amount of damages they may receive from a lawsuit.

Call an Auburn Bus Accident Attorney Today

Pursuing a lawsuit after a crash with a common carrier vehicle can help provide you with financial relief, peace of mind, and a step toward healing. The complexity of establishing liability in a bus accident claim should not be your burden to bear.

Call an Auburn bus accident lawyer today to schedule an initial consultation. Speaking with an accomplished, local attorney could provide you with the vital information and support you need when bringing a lawsuit for your injuries.