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Both passengers on a bus, as well as other motorists, can be seriously hurt or even killed if a bus is involved in an accident. When this happens because of a bus driver or bus company’s negligence, those injured in the crash may be entitled to compensation for their losses.
If you have been injured in a bus accident, you and your loved ones can benefit from the advice of a knowledgeable bus accident lawyer in Nebraska or Iowa. With a well-versed injury attorney as an advocate, you may be able to recover full compensation for the harm you or your loved ones suffered in the bus crash.
Who Is Responsible After a Bus Crash?
When a bus accident happens, the ability of those injured to recover compensation for their injuries will depend on who is at fault for the collision. There may be several individuals or entities liable for the crash, including:
- A bus driver who makes an unreasonably-careless mistake while behind the wheel
- The bus company that employs a bus driver whose driving history is suspect or who is careless
- The manufacturer of the bus, if a defect made the bus dangerous to operate
- A mechanic hired to regularly service the bus who misses a conspicuous part in need of repair or replacement
When the negligence of one or more of these parties results in an accident, anyone injured in the crash could have a viable claim for compensation. An Omaha bus accident lawyer can examine the circumstances surrounding your crash to help you understand your rights.
Dealing with Insurance Companies Following a Bus Accident
Bus companies must carry liability insurance to cover the damages caused by their drivers’ and employees’ negligence. Adjustors for these insurance companies may approach injured individuals following a crash and propose a settlement. However, these settlements are often less than what a case may actually be worth. If any person accepts the arrangement, that person will almost certainly lose his or her right to pursue fair and full compensation. A bus accident lawyer with experience going against bus insurance companies can help plaintiffs evaluate settlement offers and determine whether a proposal ought to be accepted.
Those injured in a bus crash should also expect calls from the insurance company asking for statements or information about the accident. Insurance companies may use the comments made by injured individuals against them later on in an attempt to escape responsibility. Therefore, it is always a good idea for those injured to speak with an attorney before providing information to the bus driver’s or bus company’s insurance carrier.
Time Limits for Filing in Nebraska and Iowa
Bus crash victims have four years from the date they were injured to file an injury claim in Nebraska and two years in Iowa. Failure to meet the strict deadline can be grounds for dismissal of an otherwise valid claim. Therefore, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as practicable following a crash.
Talk with an Iowa or Nebraska Bus Accident Attorney
Bringing a claim against a negligent bus company can seem intimidating. You may feel like you are fighting a company with unlimited resources. The team at Berry Law has experience advocating for the rights of people like you in these situations. Reach out to a qualified Nebraska or Iowa bus accident lawyer today to learn more about your legal options for recovering compensation.