If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a bus accident, contact a Chicago bus accident lawyer from our personal injury law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today. We will review your case and determine the best course of action to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Who Is Responsible for Bus Transportation in Illinois?
Those responsible for bus transportation in Illinois include:
- The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) oversees the CTA, Metra, and Pace bus systems in the Chicagoland area.
- The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is responsible for transit buses within the city.
- School districts are responsible for providing school buses.
- Private bus companies may also operate buses for charter or tour services.
What Is Common Carrier Law?
Common carrier law, regulated by The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), sets higher safety and care standards for Chicago bus drivers and transportation companies compared to regular drivers. This law holds these companies accountable for injuries or damages caused by their negligence, especially in bus accidents.
What Are Some Common Causes of Bus Accidents?
There are several factors that can contribute to Chicago bus accidents, including:
- Bus driver error: when transit and school bus drivers are distracted, speed, are fatigued, or negligent
- Vehicle malfunctions: poor maintenance or faulty parts
- Road conditions: weather, construction, and other road hazards
- Other drivers: reckless or negligent actions by other drivers
How Common Are Bus Accidents?
Transit bus and school bus accidents are relatively rare compared to car accidents; buses have a slightly better safety record than personal vehicles. Despite their rarity, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus accidents often attract media attention, leading to a perception that they are more common than they are.
What Are the Damages That Can Result from a Bus Crash?
Injured bus accident victims can suffer serious bus accident injuries and damages such as:
- Physical injuries such as broken bones, head trauma (TBI), spinal cord injuries (SCI), and more
- Emotional distress and mental trauma (PTSD)
- Medical expenses for treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages from time off work to recover
- Property damage to personal belongings or vehicles involved in the accident
What To Do After a Bus Accident
When bus accidents occur, there are steps bus passengers can take:
- Seek medical attention for any injuries sustained.
- Document the scene with photos and videos if possible.
- Collect statements and contact information from witnesses.
- Contact Chicago bus accident lawyers as soon as possible.
How Can a Chicago Bus Accident Attorney Help Me?
After bus crashes with serious injuries, our bus accident lawyers can determine if negligence played a part in bus accident cases by:
- Obtaining video footage and police reports related to the accident.
- Collecting eyewitness accounts and other evidence.
- Determining fault on the part of a bus company or others.
- Speaking with expert witnesses who can provide support for our side of the argument.
- Managing every aspect of the bus accident case.
- Negotiating with insurance companies for maximum compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
By Illinois law (735 ILCS 5/13-202), you generally have two years from the dates bus accidents happen to file a personal injury claim, longer if there’s government negligence or if minors are involved.
Our Chicago Bus Accident Attorneys Are Ready to Help You
Our attorneys at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers help Chicago bus accident victims seek compensation for accidents involving buses.
Free Consultation
Contact us for a free consultation with an experienced bus accident lawyer. We can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and answer your questions.
(312) 223-1700