Bus Accident Lawyer
One of the benefits of taking the bus is that you do not have to worry about driving. But this also means you put your trust and safety in the hands of the bus driver and the company or government agency that operates that vehicle. And you are still at the mercy of other drivers on the road who may operate their own cars or trucks in an unsafe manner.
The reality is that many people in Texas are injured each year in bus accidents. And the legal issues that arise from such accidents are often more complicated than the victims initially realize. That is why if you have been hurt while riding a bus it is in your best interest to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Keith B. French is a qualified Texas personal injury litigator who can represent you in negotiating a potential settlement with the negligent bus operator or their insurance company–and if necessary take your case to court.
Does It Matter if the Bus Was Owned by a Public or Private Entity?
As with any motor vehicle accident, a negligent bus driver and their employer can be held legally responsible for any injuries sustained by passengers or other persons who are hurt, such as pedestrians. The complicating factor with bus accidents usually comes about because of who owns the bus itself. Specifically, was the bus owned by a private or government entity?
This is a critical question because of how Texas law treats public versus private owners. A privately owned bus company is always liable for the negligent acts of its own employees. And you can sue a private company for a bus accident basically the same as you would an individual.
But when it comes to public ownership–say a school district that operates buses to transport students–there are different rules that apply. Suing a government entity requires strict compliance with a law known as the Texas Tort Claims Act. This Act requires a victim to notify the government entity within just 45 days of an accident of their claim. The Act also limits the amount of damages a person can receive. Such limits do not apply to lawsuits brought against private companies for a bus accident.
Contact Keith B. French Law Today
In many bus accident cases, the responsible insurance companies are often quick to offer a potential settlement, especially when there are multiple victims. It is not uncommon for insurers to deliberately make a low settlement offer in the hopes that these victims–faced with mounting medical bills and lost income–will agree to a quick settlement and sign a release of further legal claims.
Do not fall into this trap. You should never agree to any settlement or release without first speaking to an experienced Pearland bus accident lawyer. In many cases you will be in a position to negotiate a stronger settlement with a bus operator or other negligent party if you are represented by counsel. So if you need to speak with an attorney, contact Keith B. French Law, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation.
