What to Do After a Bus Accident

Bus accidents can be particularly devastating due to the large number of passengers involved and the potential for severe injuries. Whether you're a passenger on the bus, a pedestrian, or the driver or occupant of another vehicle, the aftermath of a bus accident can be overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take immediately following the accident can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation for your injuries and hold the responsible parties accountable. This guide outlines the essential steps you should take after a bus accident in Corpus Christi to protect your rights and ensure your best chance of recovery. If you were injured in a bus or other public transit accident in Texas, the skilled Corpus Christi bus accident attorneys at the Edwards Law Firm are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. 

Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention

The first and most crucial step after any accident, including a bus accident, is to prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you. If you are able, move to a safe location away from the wreckage or traffic to avoid further harm. However, if you are seriously injured, it's important to remain still and wait for emergency medical personnel to arrive.

Even if you feel okay or think your injuries are minor, it is critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term effects if left untreated. By seeing a doctor right away, you not only ensure your health and well-being but also create a medical record that links your injuries to the bus accident, which will be important if you decide to pursue a legal claim.

Call 911 and Report the Accident

After ensuring your safety, the next step is to report the accident by calling 911. This will summon both police officers and emergency medical responders to the scene. The police will document the accident and create an official report, which is a crucial piece of evidence when pursuing a legal claim. Be sure to provide the officers with a clear and accurate account of what happened, but avoid speculating about fault or making statements that could be misinterpreted as admitting blame.

If you are unable to speak with the police at the scene due to your injuries, you may be able to obtain a copy of the police report later. This report will include important details about the accident, such as the location, time, and conditions, as well as statements from witnesses and any citations issued.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you are physically able, gathering evidence at the scene of the bus accident can be incredibly valuable for your case. This includes:

• Photographs and Videos: Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Be sure to capture different angles and distances to provide a comprehensive view of the scene.
• Witness Information: Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their statements could be crucial in corroborating your account of the events.
• Driver Information: Obtain the name, contact information, and insurance details of the bus driver and any other drivers involved in the accident. If the bus driver works for a specific company or government agency, note that as well.
• Bus Information: Take note of the bus's license plate number, the bus company or agency's name, and any identifying numbers on the bus.

Keep Detailed Records of Your Injuries and Expenses

In the days and weeks following the bus accident, it’s important to keep detailed records of everything related to your injuries and the accident. This includes:

• Medical Records: Keep copies of all medical records, including doctor’s notes, hospital bills, prescriptions, and any treatments you receive. These records will serve as evidence of the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with your recovery.
• Injury Journal: Consider keeping a journal to document your daily pain levels, emotional distress, and any limitations on your ability to work or enjoy life. This can help illustrate the impact the accident has had on your life.
• Receipts and Bills: Keep all receipts and bills for any expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, transportation costs, and any modifications you need to make to your home or vehicle due to your injuries.

Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies Before Consulting a Lawyer

After a bus accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters representing the bus company or other involved parties. While it may seem straightforward to provide them with information about the accident, it’s important to be cautious. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and anything you say can be used against you to reduce or deny your claim.

Before speaking with any insurance companies, it’s wise to consult with an experienced bus accident lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected. They can also help you avoid common pitfalls, such as accepting a lowball settlement offer that doesn’t fully cover your damages.

Contact a Corpus Christi Bus Accident Lawyer

Navigating the legal aftermath of a bus accident can be complex, especially when dealing with large companies or government entities that operate buses. This is why it’s essential to contact a skilled bus accident lawyer who has experience handling these types of cases. The Edwards Law Firm in Corpus Christi has a proven track record of successfully representing bus accident victims and securing the compensation they deserve.

A lawyer from the Edwards Law Firm can help you with the following:

• Investigating the Accident: Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts to determine the cause of the crash and who is liable.
• Filing a Claim: Your lawyer will help you file a personal injury claim against the responsible parties, whether that’s the bus driver, the bus company, or another negligent party.
• Negotiating a Settlement: In many cases, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Taking Your Case to Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.

Understand Your Legal Rights and Options

Bus accidents can involve complex legal issues, including questions of liability, insurance coverage, and the statute of limitations for filing a claim. A knowledgeable bus accident lawyer from the Edwards Law Firm can help you understand your legal rights and options, ensuring that you make informed decisions throughout the process.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, if the bus is operated by a government entity, such as a city or county, there may be additional notice requirements that must be met within a shorter timeframe. Missing these deadlines could prevent you from recovering any compensation, making it essential to act quickly and consult with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Focus on Your Recovery While Your Lawyer Handles the Legal Details

Recovering from a bus accident can be a long and difficult process, both physically and emotionally. By working with an experienced bus accident lawyer, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the legal complexities of your case. This can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that a skilled advocate is working to secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

The Edwards Law Firm

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, the steps you take in the aftermath can have a significant impact on your ability to recover compensation. By ensuring your safety, seeking medical attention, gathering evidence, and consulting with a skilled bus accident lawyer in Corpus Christi, you can protect your rights and build a strong case. The Edwards Law Firm is here to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (361) 320-6752 or reach out through our online form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Corpus Christi bus accident lawyer.