Austin Bus Accident Lawyers

How Common are Bus Accidents in Austin?

According to CapMetro’s latest data, in 2024, Austin experienced more than 71 bus-related accidents, resulting in 136 passenger injuries.

If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a bus accident, reach out to our Austin bus accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Austin

Bus accidents in Austin can result from various forms of negligence. To establish negligence in a bus accident case, you must demonstrate four key elements:

1. Duty
2. Breach
3. Causation
4. Damages

Both the bus driver and the bus company owe a duty of care to their passengers and other road users. If this duty is violated – such as when a driver is distracted or a company fails to properly maintain its buses – and this violation leads to an accident that causes damages (like physical injuries or property damage), then negligence can be established.

The process of investigation and evidence collection involves reviewing police reports, gathering eyewitness accounts, examining bus company records, and obtaining expert testimony. This is where our Austin bus accident lawyers come into play. They will guide you through the entire process and ensure that all aspects are addressed.

Bus Driver Negligence

• Not adhering to traffic laws
• Driving while distracted (e.g., using a cell phone)
• Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Speeding or engaging in reckless driving

Bus Company Negligence

• Neglecting vehicle maintenance
• Hiring unqualified or inexperienced drivers
• Inadequate training for drivers
• Overloading or improperly loading the bus

Bus Manufacturer Defects

• Malfunctioning brakes or steering
• Defective tires or other components
• Poorly designed or installed seatbelts and safety equipment
• Inadequate vehicle inspections

Bad Weather

• Driving in heavy rain or snow without taking precautions
• Failing to adjust speed according to weather conditions
• Ignoring weather warnings

Road Hazards

• Potholes or uneven road surfaces
• Poorly marked construction zones
• Lack of proper signs or traffic signals
• Debris or obstacles on the roadway

Negligence by Other Drivers

• Reckless or aggressive driving by other vehicles
• Other drivers failing to yield to the bus
• Distracted or impaired drivers on the road
• Illegal maneuvers performed by other drivers

Passenger Negligence

• Distracting the bus driver
• Interfering with the bus operations
• Ignoring safety instructions
• Opening emergency exits unnecessarily

Contact our Austin bus accident lawyers for a FREE CASE EVALUATION if you were injured in a bus accident caused by another driver.

What Should I Do After a Bus Accident?

If you find yourself in a bus accident, it’s essential to take the right steps to safeguard your health and legal rights. Here’s a guide from our experienced Austin bus accident lawyers:

1. Ensure Safety:  If you can, move yourself and others to a safe spot away from traffic.
2. Seek Medical Attention:  Even if you don’t notice any injuries right away, it’s a good idea to see a doctor, as some injuries may not be immediately visible.
3. Report the Accident:  Be sure to file a report with local authorities. A police report can serve as crucial evidence.
4. Document the Scene:  If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, the bus, and any injuries you may have.
5. Collect Witness Information:  Gather contact details from witnesses or other passengers, as their statements could strengthen your case.
6. Preserve Evidence:  Keep all records related to medical treatments, expenses, and any personal items that were damaged.
7. Consult Our Legal Experts:  Contact us for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’re here to assist you through every step of the process.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Bus Wreck?

If you’ve been in a bus accident, you may qualify for various types of compensation depending on the severity of your injuries and the specifics of the incident. Here’s a brief overview from our Austin bus accident attorneys:

Economic Damages

These financial losses, commonly known as “special damages,” can include:

• Medical Expenses:  This covers costs for emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any future treatments that may be necessary.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for income lost during your recovery period.
• Loss of Earning Capacity:  If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for that loss.
• Property Damage:  Reimbursement for any damage to personal property, like a vehicle, that occurred in the accident.
• Wrongful Death:  If a loved one has passed away, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation that includes funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related losses.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages, commonly known as “general damages,” cover non-financial losses such as:

• Pain and Suffering:  This refers to both the physical pain and emotional distress that result from the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  You may be eligible for compensation if your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once loved.
• Emotional Distress:  This includes feelings of anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts stemming from the accident.
• Loss of Consortium:  Spouses can claim damages for the loss of companionship, affection, or marital relations.

How Non-Economic Damages Are Calculated

• Per Diem Method:  A daily rate is assigned to your pain and suffering, which is then multiplied by the number of days you have endured the injury.
• Multiplier Method:  Economic damages are totaled and then multiplied by a factor (usually between 1.5 and 5) based on the severity of the injury.

Since non-economic damages are subjective, working with an experienced legal team is essential to ensure you receive the maximum compensation.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages aim to punish the responsible party for reckless or malicious behavior and to deter similar actions in the future. These damages are more likely to be awarded when:

• The defendant showed extreme negligence or acted with intent to cause harm.
• The defendant was aware of the risks but chose to disregard them.
• The defendant has enough financial resources to justify significant punitive damages (such as corporations or wealthy individuals).

Determining the Value of a Bus Accident Claim

Several factors can affect the value of your bus accident injury claim, including:

• Severity of Injuries:  More severe injuries typically result in higher medical costs and a greater impact on your daily life.
• Earning Capacity:  If your ability to earn a living has been permanently affected, this will increase the value of your claim.
• Pain and Suffering:  Although these intangible losses are subjective, they can significantly boost the compensation you receive.
• Degree of Fault:  In Austin, the comparative fault system is in place, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you share any responsibility for the accident.

Filing a Bus Accident Claim: Deadlines You Need to Know

In Texas, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If the bus involved is owned by a government entity, you may face shorter time limits. It’s important to reach out to our Austin bus accident lawyers quickly to make sure you don’t miss any crucial deadlines and to safeguard your rights.

Seek Legal Help for Your Bus Crash Injury Claim Today

Let Our Austin Bus Accident Lawyers Help!

At Thompson Law, we have a strong track record of handling bus accident cases. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. Here’s how we can help you:

• Assess your situation with a FREE CASE REVIEW.
• Collect evidence and evaluate the full worth of your claim.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation.
• If necessary, file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

Don’t wait! Contact Thompson Law today to get an Austin bus accident lawyer started on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Minimum Liability Insurance Limits for Buses?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes minimum liability insurance requirements for buses based on their passenger capacity. Buses designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, must have a required insurance limit of $5,000,000. In contrast, those that accommodate 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver, are required to have a limit of $1,500,000.

These regulations apply to both private and commercial bus operators. It’s essential to keep in mind that these are federal standards, and individual states may impose additional insurance requirements that exceed the federal minimum.

Is the Statute of Limitations Shorter for Government-Owned Buses in Austin?

In Austin, the statute of limitations is indeed shorter for government-owned buses. You must inform the governmental unit within six months from the date of the incident. Failing to adhere to this process properly could result in losing your right to file a claim.

What If the Bus Driver Was Not at Fault for the Accident?

If the bus driver wasn’t at fault, you might still have options for seeking compensation from other negligent parties, including:

• The driver of another vehicle
• A bus maintenance company for any mechanical issues
• The government or a private entity responsible for hazardous road conditions

An experienced Austin bus accident lawyer will look into all potential sources of liability to assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.

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