HAVE YOU BEEN HIT & HURT IN A BUS ACCIDENT?
FIGHTING FOR YOU & YOUR RECOVERY AFTER A BUS ACCIDENt in Harris County or texas
Every year, thousands of Americans are injured or killed in bus accidents. In Texas, bus accidents are alarmingly common; in 2019, the state was named the third-leading state for large truck and bus accident fatalities with more than 400 crashes, leading to 462 deaths and 7,399 injured victims.
If you were injured or if someone you love died in a bus crash, you already know just how terrible these accidents are. At Payne Law Firm, we believe that you should not have to suffer the consequences of someone else’s negligence on your own, and our team is here to help you find justice. Since 2004, our Houston bus accident attorneys have been fighting for the rights of the injured throughout Harris County and all of Texas, taking on some of the toughest cases—and winning. To date, we have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients, including numerous million- and multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts. We have what it takes to advocate for you, and we are prepared to protect your rights and best interests every step of the way.
When you need serious representation after a serious accident, choose Payne Law Firm. Call (713) 999-4801 now for a free consultation.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Bus Accidents?
Although most bus drivers are highly trained and skilled professionals, they are still human. As such, they are susceptible to human error and negligence. In other instances, bus drivers may do everything correctly and drive with caution only to become involved in an accident due to outside factors.
Some of the leading causes of bus accidents include:
- Distracted driving, including using a cell phone or handheld device
- Speeding/excessive speeds and reckless driving
- Traffic law violations
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Running red lights/stop signs
- Dangerous driving maneuvers (unsafe turns, unlawful passing, etc.)
- Hours-of-service violations and fatigued driving
- Driving while intoxicated/under the influence of alcohol and drugs
- Poor or insufficient bus maintenance
- Lack of adequate bus repairs
- Defective buses/bus parts and defective roadway design or construction
- Third-party negligence, such as another careless driver on the road
At Payne Law Firm, we work alongside a team of accident reconstructionists and other experts to conduct exhaustive investigations and determine exactly how the accident happened. By gathering all available evidence, we are able to build powerful cases on behalf of our clients and effectively pursue compensation from the liable party.
Who Is Legally Responsible for a Bus Accident?
Bus accident claims are not like standard car accident claims. Typically, after a passenger vehicle accident, the victim can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, like truck drivers, bus drivers are professional commercial vehicle operators, and these accidents typically occur while they are on the clock. As such, the entity that employs the bus driver can often be held legally responsible for victims’ injuries and damages.
In fact, there are many potentially liable parties after a bus accident. Some of these parties include:
- The bus driver
- The bus driver’s employer
- The company that owns or leases the bus
- The entity responsible for bus maintenance/repairs
- The manufacturer or distributor of a defective vehicle/vehicle component
- The construction company or party that designed or built a defective roadway
- Another third-party, such as a negligent motorist
Because Texas is an at-fault state, it is critical that we identify the person or party who is at fault for the accident. Once our attorneys have identified this party, we can begin building your case and pursuing compensation for your damages.
The Challenges of a Public Bus Accident Lawsuit
If you were injured in a public or city transit bus accident, one thing you should keep in mind about filing a personal injury claim is the shorter timeframe you will be facing. Texas’ Tort Claims Act requires injury victims to file personal injury claims against the government within 6 months of their accident. Some cities like Houston and Austin shorten this timeframe even further:
- Houston – In Houston victims of city bus accidents have up to 90 days after the accident to notify the proper individuals of their intent to sue
- Austin – In Austin, victims are required to notify the government within just 45 days of their accident that they intend to sue for damages
These strict time constraints require you to act fast in order to recover compensation from a government agency. Our team can help you meet that deadline if you contact us ASAP.
Contact Payne Law Firm online or call our office today at 713-223-5100 to set up a free initial consultation. Hablamos español.
Client Testimonials
How Payne Law Firm Can Help
For nearly 20 years, our bus accident attorneys in Houston have fought tirelessly on behalf of injured crash victims and the families of those wrongfully killed in public transportation accidents.
We represent clients who have suffered injuries and losses due to all types of bus accidents, including but not limited to those involving:
- Metro and public transit buses
- Park and Ride buses
- School buses
- Charter buses
- Private coaches and carriers
- Metrorail and light rail buses
In addition to representing victims of serious wrecks, we also assist those who have been injured onboard buses in all types of accidents, including slips, trips, and falls. We are highly experienced in going up against major bus companies, government agencies, and national insurance carriers. Our attorneys have the skills and resources to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf, and we always prepare every case for litigation. Although we strive to recover favorable settlements, we are ready to represent you at trial if necessary.
We do not collect any attorney fees unless we win your case. Get in touch with us today to discuss your situation with one of our compassionate and experienced bus accident lawyers in Houston. You only have two years to file your lawsuit, so do not wait until it is too late!
What Sets Us ApArt
Serious lawyers for serious accidents
client Focused
We will help you every step of the way, providing answers to your questions and continuing to update you on the status of your case.
A History of Success
We have helped over a thousand injured individuals and families get the compensation they deserved.
Battle-Tested
We not only understand the complexities of insurance companies but know how to fight them.
Full Transparency
Our team knows the importance of your case and is committed to doing what is best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much compensation for a cycling accident?
Compensation for cycling accidents depends on the circumstances of the case, including the severity of injuries sustained, liability, and the liable party’s insurance coverage or assets available.
Is it worth it to hire an accident attorney?
Yes, given the complex legal knowledge required to navigate claims and counter insurance company tactics, hiring an accident attorney is worth the investment of time. Without proper representation, insurance companies may use statements or actions against you in court.
Who pays if a bike hits a car?
The at-fault party is ultimately responsible for damage payments. If the cyclist caused the accident and is injured, they would be responsible for their injuries. Likewise, if the driver is at fault, their insurance would cover the cyclist’s injuries and damages.