Dallas Bus Accident Lawyers

Why Thompson Law As Your Dallas Bus Accident Lawyer?

When seeking justice, choosing the right legal team is essential. Thompson Law offers compassionate support and a proven track record of successful results for families in Dallas. Here’s why you should choose us:

• No Fees Unless We Win:  You don’t pay unless we win your case and secure compensation for you.
• Proven Results:  With $1.9 billion recovered, our team has the expertise to deliver favorable outcomes.
• Fast, Simple Process:  Contact us anytime for a quick consultation and to start your claim.
• 24/7 Availability:  We’re always ready to assist you with legal support when you need it.
• Personalized Support:  We prioritize clear communication, respect, and care throughout the legal process.
• Bilingual Services:  Our bilingual team ensures Spanish-speaking families have access to justice without language barriers.

At Thompson Law, we aim to maximize compensation for families affected by wrongful death. From investigating the case to handling insurance claims or preparing for trial, we manage every aspect.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact our Dallas bus accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Get Compensated For Your Bus Accident Case in Dallas

Thompson Law does not charge any fees unless we secure a settlement for your case. We have successfully delivered over $1.9 billion in cash settlements to our clients.

Reach out to us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to talk about your accident, get your questions answered, and learn about your legal options.

After an accident or serious injury, the last thing you want is to struggle through a long search for a lawyer. By reaching out to us from the comfort of your home, you can quickly connect with one of our experts. You can sign up using your smartphone or computer, and have an attorney on your case within minutes. No need for appointments or lengthy interviews – just the immediate assistance you need.

Keep in mind that state law restricts the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

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 Dallas 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 consultation. We’re here to assist you through every step.

Filing a Bus Accident Claim: Deadlines You Need to Know

• Texas Statute of Limitations:  You usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.

• Claims Involving Government Entities:  If the bus is owned by a government entity, there may be shorter time limits in place.

Reach out to our Dallas bus accident attorneys as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines and to safeguard your rights.

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 Dallas bus accident attorneys:

Economic Damages

These financial losses, often called “special damages”, can include:

• Medical Expenses:  This covers costs for emergency treatment, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any future medical care required.
• 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 might be entitled to compensation for that loss.
• Property Damage:  Reimbursement for any damage to personal belongings, like your vehicle, that occurred in the accident.
• Wrongful Death:  If a loved one has died as a result of the accident, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related expenses.

Non-Economic Damages

Often called “general damages,” these cover non-financial losses, including:

• Pain and Suffering:  Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  For injuries that prevent you from enjoying previous activities.
• Emotional Distress:  Covers anxiety, depression, and other emotional impacts.
• Loss of Consortium:  Spouses may seek damages for loss of companionship or intimacy.

How Are Non-Economic Damages Calculated?

• Per Diem Method:  A daily value is assigned to your pain and multiplied by the injury duration.
• Multiplier Method:  Economic damages are multiplied by a factor based on injury severity.

Given their subjective nature, working with an experienced attorney is essential to maximize compensation.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded to punish reckless or malicious conduct and deter future wrongdoing. Courts may grant punitive damages when:

• The defendant’s negligence was extreme or intentional.
• The defendant disregarded known risks.
• The defendant has sufficient financial resources to justify punitive action.

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident and suffered injuries, reach out to our Dallas bus accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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 Dallas, the comparative fault system is in place, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you share any responsibility for the accident.

To make sure you get the compensation you deserve, it’s important to talk to an experienced bus accident lawyer. They can evaluate your case, collect the necessary evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you navigate the legal process.

How the Bus Owner or Type of Bus Can Impact Your Accident Claim Value

The bus owner and type of bus involved in your accident can significantly affect your claim’s value due to differing insurance policies and liability rules.

City-Owned Buses

Public transit buses are protected by governmental limitations under the Texas Tort Claims Act, making claims more complex. Victims must follow strict procedures and face capped damages, with limits of $100,000 per individual and $300,000 per occurrence (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 101.023(d)).

School Buses

School bus claims can vary based on ownership by school districts, private schools, or transportation companies. Whether the bus is operated by a public or private entity will influence the claim process and potential compensation.

Commercial Buses

Private bus companies, including tour and charter buses, typically carry higher insurance limits due to their elevated risk. As a result, accident claims involving commercial buses may lead to higher payouts.

Regardless of the bus type, navigating these claims requires legal expertise. Call our Dallas bus accident lawyers today for a FREE, no-obligation consultation.

Common Injuries in Bus Accidents

Bus accidents often result in serious injuries due to the large size of the vehicles, the high number of passengers, and the lack of seat belts in many models. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head and Brain Injuries:  Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to long-lasting cognitive and motor skill problems.
• Spinal Cord Injuries:  These injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, greatly affecting one’s quality of life.
• Broken Bones and Fractures:  Injuries to bones, especially in the joints, may require lengthy recovery or could lead to permanent damage.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries:  Sudden stops or changes in direction during a crash often result in these types of injuries.
• Cuts and Lacerations:  Shattered glass and sharp metal can cause severe bleeding, scarring, or even amputation.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs or blood vessels can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention.

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries or others, it’s essential to seek medical care right away. After that, contact our experienced Dallas bus accident attorneys. With years of expertise in handling bus accident cases, we are ready to fight for your rights. Reach out to us today for your FREE CONSULTATION!

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Dallas

Bus accidents in Dallas can result from various forms of negligence. To establish negligence in a bus accident, four key elements must be demonstrated:

• Duty
• Breach
• Causation
• Damages

Both the bus driver and the bus company owe a duty of care to passengers and other road users. If this duty is violated – such as when a driver is distracted or a company fails to 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 police reports, eyewitness accounts, records from the bus company, and expert testimony. This is where our Dallas bus accident lawyers can assist you. 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 driver training
• Overloading or improperly loading the bus

Bus Manufacturer Defects

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

Bad Weather

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

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 by other drivers

Passenger Negligence

• Distracting the bus driver
• Interfering with the bus’s operation
• Ignoring safety instructions
• Opening emergency exits unnecessarily

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

Get Legal Help for Your Bus Accident Case Today!

Don’t hesitate to get the legal help you need. Thompson Law is here to offer you a FREE CASE ASSESSMENT. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us NOTHING unless we win your case. Our skilled team of bus crash injury lawyers is committed to guiding you through the complicated legal process, making sure you get the compensation you deserve. Reach out to Thompson Law today, and let us advocate for your rights and your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Accidents in Dallas

What are the Minimum Liability Insurance Limits for Buses?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets mandatory liability insurance requirements for buses based on passenger capacity.

• Buses carrying 16 or more passengers (including the driver):  $5,000,000 minimum coverage
• Buses carrying 15 or fewer passengers (including the driver):  $1,500,000 minimum coverage

These federal standards apply to private and commercial bus operators, but state-specific requirements may impose additional insurance obligations.

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

Yes, the timeframe to file claims against government-owned buses, such as Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), is shorter. You must notify the appropriate government agency within six months of the incident. Failing to do so correctly could forfeit your right to compensation.

Can You Seek Compensation If the Bus Driver Was Not at Fault?

Absolutely. Even if the bus driver wasn’t responsible for the accident, other parties may still be liable, including:

• The driver of another vehicle
• A bus maintenance company for mechanical defects
• Government entities or private organizations responsible for hazardous road conditions

An experienced attorney can investigate these factors and help you secure the compensation you’re entitled to.

See What Clients Say About Thompson Law

4.9

Based on 1744 reviews