Injured in a Bus Accident?
Our bus accident lawyers get results for those hurt in Houston
People take the bus every day in Houston and throughout Texas. Some are going to work, school or to the store. Some are visiting friends or relatives. Others are traveling to see a game or visit a casino. It only takes one act of negligence to cause a car accident that leaves people seriously injured.
If a negligent car driver, bus driver or bus company caused the accident that left you hurt, Smith & Hassler can help. Our firm has been fighting for the injured in the Houston area since 1989. Our bus accident lawyers know how to handle complex cases to help you recover the financial compensation you deserve.
An accident can change people’s lives in seconds. Suddenly, they are left with serious injuries and need medical treatment. They may not be able to work or take part in their usual activities. Medical expenses can add up quickly and become overwhelming. Victims are impacted physically, emotionally and financially.
Why are bus accident cases so complex?
Bus accidents can be complicated because there are often many parties involved. These can include the bus driver, the bus passengers, the bus company, the bus manufacturer or manufacturer of defective parts, and drivers of other vehicles. Each party may have a different insurance company and their own lawyer. But the negligent party may deny doing anything wrong and refuse to accept responsibility for what happened.
Buses are large vehicles. An accident involving a bus can cause serious injuries. These include broken bones and injuries to the head, neck or back. More severe injuries include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries and internal injuries. You may need surgery, hospitalization, medication, and physical therapy. Recovery may take months or even longer. Some people are left with a permanent disability.
Who pays for my damages after a bus accident?
If you were injured in a bus accident, the responsible party’s insurer will be responsible for paying for your damages. But don’t expect much help from the insurance companies. They will fight against bus accident claims because they know there is a lot of money at stake.
Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. They may question the seriousness of your injuries or make a lowball settlement offer that doesn’t come close to covering all the damages you suffered. If you accept a lowball settlement offer, you won’t be able to seek additional compensation.
That’s why you need a lawyer who knows how to fight back. Our lawyers know how insurance companies operate. We have the knowledge, experience and resources needed to build strong cases that insurance companies must take seriously. Our goal is to help you recover the maximum compensation possible.
How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Texas?
If the bus accident doesn’t involve a government entity, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. But the sooner you act, the easier it will be for our Houston attorneys to gather fresh evidence and witness statements.
For accidents involving buses owned and operated by government entities, you must file a notice of claim within six months of the bus accident. Some government entities have an even shorter notice period, like the City of Houston, which requires notice within 90 days. This formally notifies the government entity of the incident and your intention to seek compensation. An attorney at Smith & Hassler can help you through the process and ensure that your claim is filed properly and timely.
What can I expect from my bus accident settlement?
The average settlement for a bus accident can be anywhere from a few thousand dollars to over a million dollars. It depends on the severity of your injuries, the damages you accrue, and the pain and suffering you endure.
An experienced Texas bus accident attorney will need to thoroughly evaluate your damages and determine how much money you’re eligible for. This includes adding up your current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Plus, an attorney will need to calculate how much money you’re owed for pain and suffering.
Our Houston bus accident attorneys will fight to maximize your compensation
To help you build a strong claim, we start by investigating your bus accident to get the facts and identify the negligent parties. Our legal team gathers evidence and carefully reviews accident reports, safety records, medical records, and other documentation. We interview witnesses and, if needed, we consult accident reconstruction experts and other specialists.
Our lawyers know where to look for evidence of negligence. A bus or car driver may have been speeding, driving recklessly, texting or falling asleep at the wheel. A bus company may have failed to properly repair or maintain the bus. In some cases, a defective part may have caused the accident that left people hurt.
Over 30 years, we’ve earned a reputation as a law firm that doesn’t let up as we fight for the rights of clients. In many cases, we can negotiate a settlement with the insurance company that meets your needs. If the insurance company won’t negotiate, we are ready to fight for you in court, if that’s what it takes.
If you were injured in a Houston bus accident, learn more about how we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with an experienced bus accident lawyer.