Phoenix Bus Accident Lawyers

How Common are Bus Accidents in Phoenix?

Bus accidents in Phoenix are becoming a more urgent concern, especially with the increase in incidents involving school buses. Recent statistics highlight the need to tackle this escalating issue to protect public safety on the roads in Phoenix.

Phoenix Bus Accident Statistics

While detailed bus accident statistics specific to Phoenix remain limited, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) in 2023 reported  607 crashes involving Commercial, Non-Commercial and School buses with 7 fatalities and 115 injured people.

Reports also indicate that factors such as driver shortages and fatigue contributed to those accidents. These challenges have underscored the urgent need for improved driver training and more stringent operational oversight for bus transportation services in Phoenix.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Phoenix

Bus accidents in Phoenix often result from negligence, which can take many forms. The bus driver and the bus company are responsible for ensuring the safety of passengers and other road users. If this responsibility is not upheld – such as when a driver is distracted, or a company fails to properly maintain its buses – and this leads to an accident that causes injuries or property damage, then negligence can be established.

To prove negligence in a bus accident case, you must establish four key elements:

• Duty of Care:  The bus driver and company owe a legal duty to passengers and other road users.
• Breach of Duty:  Negligence occurs if this duty is violated, such as distracted driving or poor vehicle maintenance.
• Causation:  The breach must directly lead to an accident.
• Damages:  Injuries or property damage must result from the accident.

A thorough investigation and collection of evidence are necessary, which may include police reports, eyewitness accounts, records from the bus company, and expert testimony. This is where our skilled Phoenix bus accident lawyers can assist you. They will guide you through the entire process and ensure that all aspects are addressed.

Bus Driver Negligence

• Failing to obey traffic laws
• Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Speeding or reckless driving

Bus Company Negligence

• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Hiring unqualified drivers
• Inadequate driver training
• Overloading the bus

Bus Manufacturer Defects

• Faulty brakes, steering, or tires
• Defective seatbelts or safety features
• Lack of proper vehicle inspections

Bad Weather Conditions

• Driving without proper precautions in rain or snow
• Failing to adjust speed for weather conditions
• Ignoring severe weather warnings

Road Hazards & External Factors

• Potholes, uneven roads, or unmarked construction zones
• Missing traffic signs or signals
• Debris or unexpected obstacles on the road

Negligence by Other Drivers

• Aggressive or reckless driving
• Failing to yield to buses
• Distracted or impaired drivers
• Illegal lane changes or turns

Passenger Negligence

• Distracting or interfering with the bus driver
• Failing to follow safety instructions
• Tampering with emergency exits
• Get Legal Help After a Phoenix Bus Accident

Proving negligence requires gathering evidence like police reports, witness statements, and bus company records. Our experienced Phoenix bus accident lawyers will handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery.

Call us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW!

What Should I Do After a Bus Accident?

If you find yourself in a bus accident, it’s important to take certain steps to safeguard yourself and your rights. Here’s a list from our Phoenix bus accident lawyers:

1. Be Safe:  Move yourself and others to a safe location. If possible, get off the roadway.
2. Get Medical Attention:  Even if you feel fine, seek medical help immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately visible.
3. File a Report:  Notify local authorities about the accident. The police report will serve as important evidence later on.
4. Document the Scene:  If you can, take photos or videos of the accident scene, the condition of the bus, and any injuries you sustained.
5. Get Witness Info:  Collect contact details from any witnesses, including other passengers. Their accounts can be valuable for your case.
6. Save Evidence:  Keep a record of your medical treatments and expenses, and retain any personal items that were damaged in the accident.
7. Get in Touch:  Contact us now for a FREE CONSULTATION. We’re here to guide you through the process.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Bus Wreck?

Bus accident victims may be entitled to various types of compensation based on the severity of their injuries and the specific circumstances of the accident. The types of personal injury damages available to bus accident victims include economic damages, non-economic damages, and in some cases, punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages, also known as special damages, cover financial losses directly caused by the bus accident. These may include:

• Medical Expenses:  Compensation for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care required due to the accident.
• Lost Wages:  If injuries prevent you from working, you may be eligible for compensation covering lost income during your recovery period.
• Loss of Earning Capacity:  If your injuries result in long-term or permanent limitations affecting your ability to earn a living, you may receive compensation for future lost income.
• Property Damage:  Compensation for personal property damaged in the accident, such as a vehicle, to cover repairs or replacement costs.
• Wrongful Death:  If a loved one has tragically passed due to a bus accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and related damages.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, also called general damages, address non-monetary losses, such as:

• Pain and Suffering:  Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  If injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, you may be compensated for this loss.
• Emotional Distress:  Anxiety, depression, and other emotional suffering stemming from the accident.
• Loss of Consortium:  Spouses of victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, affection, or intimacy.

Calculating Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are often subjective and challenging to quantify. Two common methods used to determine these damages include:

• Per Diem Method:  This approach assigns a daily value to the victim’s pain and suffering, multiplied by the number of days they have endured the hardship. For example, if a daily rate is set and the victim has suffered for 200 days, the total non-economic damages would be calculated as: daily rate × 200.
• Multiplier Method:  This method adds up all economic damages and multiplies the total by a factor between 1.5 and 5, depending on the severity of injuries. For instance, if economic damages total $100,000 and a multiplier of 3 is used, non-economic damages would amount to $300,000.

Each case is unique, and choosing the right calculation method can significantly impact the final compensation amount. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

Punitive Damages

Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not meant to compensate victims but rather to punish the negligent party and deter similar misconduct. They may be awarded in cases involving extreme recklessness or intentional wrongdoing.

Key factors considered in awarding punitive damages include:

• Severity of Negligence:  Cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm are more likely to warrant punitive damages.
• Defendant’s Conduct:  Did the defendant knowingly act in a way that could cause harm?
• Defendant’s Finances:  Courts often take the financial standing of the defendant into account, particularly if the negligent party is a corporation or has significant financial resources.

Get Legal Help Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident, you deserve justice and fair compensation. Contact our Phoenix bus accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.

Determining the Value of a Bus Accident Claim

Determining the value of your bus accident injury claim is complex. Several factors influence the compensation you may receive. An experienced bus accident lawyer can assess your case by considering the following key elements:

• Severity of Injuries:  More severe injuries result in higher medical bills, greater long-term impact on your life, and ultimately, higher compensation.
• Earning Capacity:  If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or limit your ability to earn a living, lost wages and future earning potential will be factored into your claim.
• Pain and Suffering:  This non-economic damage varies depending on the nature of your injuries. An attorney can help quantify this often subjective factor.
• Degree of Fault:  Arizona follows a comparative fault system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially responsible for the accident.

To obtain the compensation you deserve, it’s essential to consult with a bus accident lawyer. They can assess your case, gather the necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and guide you through the entire process.

How Long Do I Have to Make a Bus Accident Injury Claim?

Arizona has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to bus accidents. This means you have 2 years from the date of the bus accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you will forfeit your right to seek compensation. It’s also important to note that if governmental entities are involved, the time frame to file a lawsuit may be shorter.

If you live in Phoenix but were injured in a bus accident in another state, the statute of limitations in that state will apply. Since filing deadlines vary, it’s important to contact a Phoenix bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to understand the specific deadlines for your case. Our legal team can help determine the statute of limitations in the state where the accident occurred, navigate complex jurisdictional issues, and ensure your rights are protected while maximizing your potential compensation.

Contact our Phoenix bus accident attorneys now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Seek Legal Help for Your Bus Crash Injury Claim Today

Let Our Phoenix Bus Accident Lawyers Help!

Reach out for the assistance you require. Thompson Law provides a FREE CASE ASSESSMENT. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us NOTHING unless we secure a win for your case.

Our bus crash injury attorneys have navigated this process many times. Allow us to guide you through it and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with Thompson Law today.

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 seating capacity.

• Buses designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, must have a minimum of $5,000,000 in liability coverage.
• Buses designed to carry 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver, must have a minimum of $1,500,000 in liability coverage.

These limits apply to both private and commercial bus operators.

Is the statute of limitations shorter for government-owned buses in Phoenix?

Yes, claims involving government-owned buses in Phoenix have a shorter statute of limitations. Victims must provide written notice to the responsible government agency within six months of the accident date.

Failure to follow this process correctly can result in losing your right to seek compensation. Given these strict deadlines, consulting a bus accident lawyer in Phoenix as soon as possible is essential to protect your claim.

What if the bus driver was not at fault?

Even if the bus driver wasn’t responsible, other parties may still be liable. This can include the bus company, other motorists, vehicle manufacturers, or even government agencies responsible for road maintenance. A bus accident attorney can help identify all responsible parties.

Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?

No. Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements to minimize payouts. Before accepting any offer, consult a bus accident lawyer to ensure the amount covers medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses.

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