Columbia Bus Accident Lawyer

Columbia Bus Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one was involved in a serious collision with a commercial or public transit bus, life can feel chaotic. Partnering with a knowledgeable Columbia bus accident lawyer can help crash victims better understand their rights and legal options after an accident. Bus accident claims are different than typical car accident claims because there are often numerous parties involved, in addition to increased injuries and unique laws.

About the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III

For nearly 30 years, the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III has worked with families and individuals across Sumter, Columbia, Camden, Orangeburg, and Florence, SC. Located at 1701 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201, our firm understands the laws and residents of Columbia.

Our attorneys have decades of combined experience in personal injury and family law. At an established law firm, we strive to provide clients with focused and knowledgeable legal services that are tailored to their specific needs.

Understanding Bus Accident Cases in Colombia

In South Carolina, we follow contributory negligence laws under South Carolina Code § 15-3-530. This means that, generally, there is a limited amount of time that you have to file a claim from the date of your accident. If you were injured in a bus accident, you only have three years to file a personal injury claim against the negligent party.

There are also bus accident laws specific to reckless driving under South Carolina Code § 56-5-2920. A Columbia bus accident attorney can help you better understand how these laws apply to your case. Bus accidents can occur in many different ways. Some common examples include:

• Rear-end collisions
• Bus rollovers
• Pedestrian accidents
• Multi-vehicle accidents

Buses are larger than typical vehicles on the road, which means there is potential for more severe injury to all passengers involved in an accident. In 2023, 466 school buses and 332 passenger buses were involved in accidents in South Carolina. Of these, six resulted in serious injuries (four school bus and two passenger bus).

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

As with most accidents, bus accidents are typically caused by preventable factors that contributed to a dangerous situation on the road. There are several causes of bus accidents in Colombia and throughout South Carolina, some of which include:

• Distracted driving
• Driver fatigue
• Mechanical errors
• Improper training

Bus drivers must safely transport dozens of passengers at a time, frequently in congested areas or for long distances. When safety procedures are not enforced, catastrophic accidents can occur. In some situations, poor weather conditions or another driver’s actions could cause a bus driver to crash. Bus accidents often have multiple causes.

Types of Injuries Seen in Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can cause serious injury to passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. This is because buses do not typically have seatbelts, and crash impacts can be substantial. Some injuries that occur from bus accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries and damage to internal organs
• Deep cuts and burns
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis

The injuries listed above can cause lasting physical and emotional damage that may prevent individuals from working and supporting themselves. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, you may require extensive medical care and rehabilitation. You may also need to take time off from work to recover. Medical bills and lost wages can cause financial hardships for injured parties and their families.

Hire a Bus Accident Lawyer

In some cases, it may be necessary to hire a Columbia bus accident lawyer if your claim involves a commercial carrier or public transportation system. Some jurisdictions require notice if your claim involves a government entity.

For instance, a claim against your city or state’s transit system will likely fall under the South Carolina Tort Claims Act, which requires you to file within strict deadlines and limits the amount you can recover. Failing to file within these time limitations can affect your right to recover.

In addition, many bus accident cases are governed by federal regulations if your accident involved an interstate carrier. Federal rules can cover factors like driver logs, vehicle upkeep, and inspection protocols. These laws could ultimately determine who was at fault for your injuries. For this reason, it’s critical to have a complete understanding of the law as it applies to your claim.

FAQs About Bus Accident Law

What Happens When a Bus Driver Has an Accident?

When a bus driver gets into an accident, a police investigation will occur in order to determine how the accident occurred and who is at fault. Some of the considerations include the police report, driver logs, maintenance records, and eyewitness testimonies. Depending on who is liable for the accident, either the bus driver or the bus company will file insurance claims, and those injured in the accident can file for compensation.

Is South Carolina a No-Fault State for Accidents?

South Carolina is not considered a no-fault state. Throughout the state, the person who caused the accident is liable for all damages incurred during the accident.

This allows the injured party to file claims against the party who was at fault during the accident, either through their insurance or by filing a claim. South Carolina operates under modified comparative negligence. This means your compensation can be decreased if you are partially at fault for the accident.

Is the Bus Company Liable for the Injuries of the Passengers?

If the bus company’s at fault, it’s because they think the driver messed up or didn’t do proper upkeep, potentially leading to your injuries. In most cases, the employer is liable for the driver’s injuries. Sometimes, responsibility might lie with someone else, like the maintenance crew, or perhaps another driver caused the accident.

How Much Compensation Can I Get for Getting Hit by a Bus?

The amount you can recover for your injuries from getting hit by a bus depends on various factors. Some cases have been settled for just enough to cover hospital bills, while others pay for lifetime injuries. Factors such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can go into the calculation of how much you should be awarded. There is no specific amount that you will receive, so it all depends on your injuries.

Contact the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III

If you have been injured in a bus accident, the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III can help. Contact us today for a consultation.