In California, buses are affordable transportation. While no one wishes to get into an accident, you want to know what you can do in the unfortunate event that it happens. These accidents can result in significant medical bills, income loss, and emotional distress. Worse, insurance providers might not grant you the full payout for your injuries.
That said, know that California personal injury law helps victims get the compensation they deserve.
Bus accidents can be challenging because multiple parties are frequently involved. Furthermore, major insurance providers often hesitate to provide full compensation. To ensure a solid claim, consult a prescreened California bus accident attorney.
What Makes Bus Accident Claims In California Different
Contrary to cars, which are typically owned privately by people or businesses, buses are usually owned by the government. This indicates that your lawsuit involves a public entity, in which case the statute of limitations is generally shortened.
Delays in filing a lawsuit may exclude the victim and prevent them from having the chance to pursue and win just compensation. Hence, you want to file claims or hire a California Personal Injury Lawyer as soon as possible.
What Must Be Done Right Away Following A Bus Accident?
Given that you have a much shorter deadline for bus accident claims, you want to ensure you take the proper steps from the beginning. Here are the things you need to do:
- Let the bus driver know that you were hurt and let them know about the incident.
- Take pictures of the event.
- Requesting or looking for any footage or surveillance related to the bus
- Looking for any potential on-site witnesses
- Get help immediately (Call 911, get medical attention, call the police, etc.).
That said, you shouldn't panic if you haven't done everything listed above. Your bus accident injury attorney in Los Angeles can collect evidence, compile proper documents, and ensure you have a strong claim.
The Most Common Mistakes In California Bus Accident Claims
You want to maximize the chances of winning a personal injury claim. Hence, you need to take careful steps from the beginning.
1. Not Recording When You Can Or Collective Video Evidence
When they don't record the incident, lots of people make mistakes. Critical pieces of information in a bus accident case are videos and photos. If you take things to court, the judge will require those pieces of evidence to reach a decision. The supporting evidence can also persuade the bus' insurance provider that you have a solid case.
2. Not Getting Medical Help ASAP
Another error you can make is to decide against going to the doctor. People tend to do this when they're not suffering any outward symptoms. The truth is that your adrenaline rush can mask severe internal injuries incurred in the collision.
Not only is it essential to treat possible unseen injuries, but you also want to get your current condition unto medical records. These documents can prove the severity of the injuries you've sustained.
3. Negotiating With The Insurance Provider Yourself
Avoid speaking directly with the bus's insurance provider because they will do everything they can to make you feel your case isn't as bad as it actually is. As a result, you might end up agreeing to unfair payouts that trivialize your injuries or put the blame on you.
To protect yourself from such, have your bus accident injury attorney in California speak to them for you.
How Long Do I Have To File Bus Accident Claims In California?
You have two years to file your personal injury lawsuit in California if you are struck by a privately owned bus.
However, you must file a lawsuit in court within six months if the accident resulted from a government bus driver's negligence.
The key is to start the process early and avoid waiting until the very last minute because it is easy to overlook important details when rushing.
Hire A Prescreened Personal Injury Lawyer In California!
1000Attorneys is a California state bar-certified referral agency. We only give referrals to prescreened personal injury attorneys in California, so you know you're only getting trusted, experienced, and discipline-free attorneys. Click here for a free case review.
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