How Bus Accident Injuries Happen
Not all bus accident injuries occur when the bus you are riding collides with another object. In fact, bus accident injuries can take a surprising variety of forms. Here are just a few examples:
- The bus you are riding collides with another vehicle or object.
- You are struck by a bus while driving your own vehicle.
- You are struck by a bus while walking or riding your bike.
- You are injured due to a poorly designed bus station.
- You are injured due to a poorly maintained bus station.
- You are injured at a bus station with poor security.
- You are injured when your bus suffers a mechanical malfunction.
- You are injured when the bus you are riding suddenly starts or comes to a stop.
see how we've made a difference
If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$1,600,000 $1.6 Million Wrongful Death
Anonymous Wrongful Death Case
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$2,300,000 $2.3 Million Leg Injury When Tractor Trailer Crossed Center Line
Leg Injury When Tractor Trailer Crossed Center Line
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$3,000,000 $3 Million Leg Injury Case Involving Tractor Trailer on I-75
Leg Injury Case Involving Tractor Trailer on I-75
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$110,000 $110k for Car Accident Client With Back and Neck Pain
For Car Accident Client With Back and Neck Pain
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$172,500 $172k for a Woman Who Injured Her Leg at Her Neighbor’s House
For a Woman Who Injured Her Leg at Her Neighbor’s House
Types of Georgia Bus Accidents
Buses have a wide range of uses and come in many shapes and sizes. Most of the bus accident claims we see involve the following types of buses:
- Public transportation buses
- Charter buses and Greyhound buses
- Coaches
- Tour buses
- Curbside buses
- School buses
- Airport buses
Public transit bus lines in Georgia include:
- Metropolitan Atlanta Transit Authority (MARTA) operating in Fulton County and DeKalb County
- Cobb County Transit (CCT), serving the suburban Atlanta area of Marietta, Kennesaw, and Mableton
- Gwinnett County Transit (GCT), serving the suburban Atlanta areas near Norcross and Lawrenceville
- Chatham Area Transit (CAT), serving Savannah, Georgia and the surrounding cities and towns
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Proven Record of Results
Van Sant Law has recovered millions in compensation for our clients’ benefit.
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Years of Experience
Van Sant Law is committed to professional and experienced personal injury representation.
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Awards and Accolades
10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo™, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, National Trial Lawyers Association Top 40 Under 40
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Strategic and Aggressive
Our legal team includes former defense attorneys for large insurers who know how they settle injury claims.
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Personal and Compassionate
Our firm works hard to ensure that your needs are taken care of during your recovery time. We work for you so you can get your life back.
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No Fee Guarantee
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. Meaning there are no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you!
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They checked in throughout my care and gave updates as well, the process was truly a breeze! I cant thank you guys enough!
- Tareckia S. -
R. Shannon Carpenter is the guy to call! Because of him I got a far larger compensation than I ever expect and the whole process was stress free for me!
- Chase V. -
Back in March I was involved in a rear end collision accident. The are very professional and will do whatever it takes to get the best possible offer when it comes with the insurance. 5/5 will recommend to everyone
- Juan S. -
I had a head on collusion that left me with a totaled car & very bad injuries. From the first time I spoke to David Van Sant to the end I have been totally satisfied. I worked with Patricia she was very compassionate yet professional she was always ready to answer any concerns that I might have. I am grateful that my daughter found this law firm for me.
- Karen J. -
The team really helped us as we navigated the claims process after our oldest child had his car totaled by a drunk driver! They were incredibly professional and helped us through every step of the process! Would absolutely recommend their services! Thank you!
- Josiah B. -
Attorney David M. Van Sant is one of the best injury trial attorneys here in the Atlanta area. They are precise and unique in their approach. When I had my car accident, my whole world was turned upside down, but with Attorney Van Sant and his team of professionals dedication and quality of service, my life is back on track.
- Crystal -
My attorney, David Van Sant and his law firm were outstanding in handling my personal injury case. I was out of work for a considerable amount of time due to an automobile accident and Mr. Van Sant and his entire team were always kind, professional, knowledgeable and especially available. This law firm did their absolute best to answer and return calls and at no time did I ever feel like just a number or stranger. My experience with Mr. Van Sant and his law firm (from beginning to end), were very positive as well as favorable.
- Lars S. -
They were referred to me by a close friend of mine. Extremely professional, and asked the language I feel comfortable to discuss my case in. Alex Rusanov was my case manager and explained every aspect of my case during the process. I would highly recommend to use this law firm if you were injured in a car accident. Drive safe and stay alert!- Angela
Our firm is dedicated and committed to providing you with the best legal services possible, from your education on the issues to fighting for positive results for your case. Through a free, initial consultation, we will make sure you understand the best way to approach your case, and we’ll review any relevant documents that you provide us with to make sure we have a full, detailed picture of your situation.
Georgia Bus Accident Claim Complications
A bus accident injury claim is usually more complicated than a traffic accident involving non-commercial vehicles. Not only is the cause of bus accidents often more difficult to understand, but also the bus’ insurance provider often has the power and money to fight back aggressively in order to avoid payouts. In addition, Georgia’s sovereign immunity laws may make it more difficult for accident victims to collect fair and timely compensation when it comes to bus accidents involving government entities, such as a transportation authority or department of transportation.
Any information you can gather about the accident, including photographs of the site and witness accounts, may also help with your claim. Do not sign anything given to you by the bus company or insurance adjuster before talking to an experienced bus crash lawyer, as you may be signing away your right to fair and proper compensation.
If you’ve been injured in an accident you should speak with an experienced bus accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our office directly at (800) 234-9556 to schedule your free consultation.
frequently asked questions
Personal Injury
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Do the Circumstances of My Bus Accident Matter?
Ultimately, there can be any number of reasons for a bus accident or other personal injury claim involving a bus. Whether the bus or bus station was not maintained appropriately, bus equipment was faulty, the bus driver was impaired or distracted, or road conditions contributed to the accident, you have a right to hold the driver and bus company, and potentially other motorists or other third parties, responsible for their negligence.
Your bus accident lawyer will work on your case carefully to determine what occurred, who the responsible parties are, and what type of compensation you are entitled to receive based on the extent and nature of your injuries.
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What if My Accident Involved a Tour Bus?
Commercial bus carriers, including tour bus companies, are not immune from liability when injury accidents occur. To a certain extent, the location of your accident will influence how you pursue compensation for your injuries. For injury accidents in the Atlanta metro area or across the state of Georgia, Van Sant Law can represent you directly, advocating for your rights and holding the commercial bus company accountable.
If your accident occurred outside of Georgia, even if the tour bus company was based in Georgia, you will need to work with an attorney in the state where the injury occurred. But your Van Sant Law bus accident attorney can help you find competent and trustworthy counsel and can help provide the local support and resources you need as you pursue justice and recover from the accident.
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Are School Bus Accidents Compensable in Georgia?If your child was hurt in an accident involving a school bus in Georgia, you have rights. When a government entity is responsible, as can be the case with school bus accidents, you may not be able to pursue litigation through the courts for injuries your child sustained in the accident. However, most municipalities and school bus companies have private insurance coverage designed to cover personal injury accidents. In addition, there may be other applicable insurance coverage. Talk to a bus accident lawyer who can help you understand the merits of your case and help you pursue obtaining an appropriate insurance settlement for your child’s injuries.
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How Can I Determine Who Was Responsible for My Bus Accident?
Determining liability after a bus accident can be complex. In addition to the driver, there may be other responsible parties. For example, if you were injured on a city bus, the city or metropolitan transit authority may bear some responsibility. In the case of a bus accident involving a commercial carrier like a tour bus or Greyhound, the private carrier may be liable. Another motorist may have caused or contributed to the accident. Sometimes there are other third parties involved too, such as fleet maintenance companies, security firms, and more.
Based on the underlying facts and circumstances surrounding your accident, the bus accident law firm will identify responsible parties and will seek to hold them accountable for their actions or inactions.
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Do I Need a Lawyer to Handle My Bus Accident Claim?While it’s not legally required to have a lawyer, hiring one is highly recommended. Bus accident claims can be complex, particularly when multiple parties are involved or when dealing with government entities. An experienced attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies, collect evidence, and navigate legal procedures on your behalf. They can also help ensure that you don’t miss critical deadlines or accept a settlement offer that is less than what you deserve.
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What Compensation Can I Recover from a Bus Accident Claim?Victims of bus accidents in Georgia may recover compensation for a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. In cases involving severe or permanent injuries, compensation for future medical care and loss of earning capacity may also be available. If the at-fault party exhibited gross negligence, punitive damages might be pursued. An attorney can help calculate the full extent of your damages to ensure you receive fair compensation.
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How Does Georgia Law Affect Bus Accident Claims?Georgia operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. However, as a passenger on a bus, you are unlikely to bear any fault. Georgia also has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which means you must file your claim within two years of the accident. If a government entity is involved, you may need to adhere to stricter notification timelines, typically requiring a formal notice within six months of the incident.
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Can I File a Claim If I Was a Passenger on the Bus?Yes, as a passenger, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Bus companies and public transportation systems owe a duty of care to their passengers to ensure safety. If this duty is breached and results in an accident, you may file a personal injury claim against the liable party. Since bus accidents often involve multiple injured parties, filing a claim promptly can ensure you secure your rightful compensation. An attorney can guide you through the process, including dealing with insurance companies and government entities.
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What Should I Do Immediately After a Bus Accident in Georgia?After a bus accident, your health and safety are the top priorities. Seek medical attention even if you don’t feel injured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Document the scene by taking photos of the accident, your injuries, and any visible damages. Collect contact information from the bus driver, other passengers, witnesses, and involved parties. Report the accident to law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report. If the bus was operated by a public transportation system, you should also file a report with the transit authority. It’s wise to consult a personal injury attorney experienced in bus accident claims to understand your legal rights and next steps.