When you step onto a bus, you trust your ride will be safe and uneventful. Unfortunately, as with any mode of transportation, accidents can happen. Bus accidents can and do happen.
When they do, the ensuing investigation can be challenging, given that multiple parties are involved. Determining liability and assigning blame in an Atlanta bus accident is not always cut and dry. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, it’s important to understand your rights and what to expect moving forward.
The bus driver is the most prominent party responsible for the accident. However, it’s important to note that they may not always be liable for damages. Other parties that may be held responsible for a bus accident include the bus company, vehicle manufacturer, and third parties.
The Bus Company
The bus company is responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle. This means they are responsible for offering vehicles proper maintenance and regular checkups.
If a bus company is found at fault in an accident, it may be required to pay restitution for any damages. They may also be liable for punitive damages if they were found to have been grossly negligent. If the company knowingly or unknowingly employed a driver who was not safe to drive, they may be held liable for any damages.
The Bus Driver
The bus driver is responsible for the safe operation of the bus. If a driver is found to have been negligent in the operation of the vehicle, they may be held liable for any damages. They may also be liable for punitive damages if they were found to have been grossly negligent.
The bus driver is the most likely party to be held liable for an accident. However, it’s important to remember that there may be multiple parties at fault. An experienced Atlanta bus accident lawyer can help determine if the driver is liable for damages.
A bus driver can be held responsible if the accident resulted from:
- Tailgating
- Drowsy driving
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Disregarding traffic lights or signals
- Speeding
The Bus Manufacturer
The bus manufacturer is primarily responsible for the design of the bus, including any defects that may have contributed to the accident. They are responsible for ensuring that the vehicle complies with all applicable safety standards.
If a bus manufacturer was found negligent in the vehicle’s design, they might be liable for any damages. In addition, they may also be liable for punitive damages if they were found to have been grossly negligent.
Third Parties
In some cases, people may be injured in a bus accident because of the actions of another party. Third parties are anyone who may have contributed to the accident. This includes pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who may have been involved in the collision.
Third parties are responsible for their actions as well. If a third party is found to have been negligent in an accident, they may be held liable for any damages. There are some exceptions to this rule.
For example, if a third party was injured in an accident while providing medical care, they may only be held liable if that person acted negligently. This means that they had knowledge of the danger and did not take the appropriate precautions to prevent it from happening.
A Lawyer Can Help You Find the At-Fault Party
Determining fault in an Atlanta bus accident is not always straightforward. However, it’s important to understand that a thorough investigation is crucial. When an Atlanta bus accident occurs, the parties involved should be prepared to cooperate with the police and insurance companies. This is especially true as there are multiple parties involved.
If you were injured in a crash, an Atlanta bus accident lawyer can help you file for compensation. Your attorney will help you identify the liable party or parties and build a strong case against them.
