Public transportation is the ideal way for many to commute to work, a doctor’s appointment, and even grocery shopping. When you step onto a CARTA bus in Charleston and take your seat, the last thing you’re thinking about is the potential for a bus accident.
Unfortunately, accidents that occur are often unexpected and leave us with far more questions than answers.
So, what do you do if you were injured in a bus accident? Is there compensation for a public transportation accident?
Understanding the Risk of a Public Transportation Accident
In 2019, Americans took an estimated 9.9 billion trips on public transportation, ranging from buses and subways to ferries and commuter trains.
Despite public transportation being 10 times safer per mile than traveling by automobile, the National Safety Council reports that “motorized passenger transportation incidents account for about one out of seven preventable injury-related deaths.
Passenger vehicles, which include passenger cars, light trucks, vans, and SUVs, account for the majority of passenger deaths in the public transportation space, followed by buses, then railroad and airline incidents.
In terms of vehicles, buses are among the largest on the road, but “bigger” doesn’t necessarily equate to “safest.” When traveling by public bus, individual safety features are limited. For example, unlike private vehicles, public buses don’t have airbags and seat belts.
While bus injuries are less common than in other modes of public transportation, the consequences of an accident can still be severe.
Who is Held Liable for a Bus Passenger Injury?
Determining liability in a bus accident is not as straightforward as one may believe. Several parties may end up sharing responsibility, depending on the circumstances of the crash and who owns or operates the bus.
Public Transportation Entities
If you were injured while riding a CARTA bus, you may need to file a personal injury claim against a government agency. In South Carolina, there is a legal doctrine known as vicarious liability. This states that if an employee causes an accident while on the job, their employer may be held responsible.
Therefore, if a bus driver of a CARTA bus is liable for the incident, you may be able to seek compensation against the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA).
Privately Owned Companies
Not every bus you take will be a city-owned vehicle. Charter buses, tour buses, and shuttles are operated by private companies that are required to carry commercial liability insurance. If you were injured in an accident with a privately owned bus, you can seek to recover damages from the company itself.
Whether you were in an accident involving a city or privately owned bus, our bus accident attorneys can help you determine how to file a personal injury claim and where to start seeking compensation.
How a Public Transportation Accident Lawyer Can Help
Bus accidents can be overwhelming and confusing, often involving complex regulations, liability concerns, and insurance coverage issues – and that’s before worrying about your own health and wellbeing.
With the help of a skilled bus accident lawyer near you, we can handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on what’s important.
Our team will start a comprehensive investigation into your claim to gather the necessary documentation and file it within the deadlines required. We will work with you to calculate damages, deliver fair and just compensation, and negotiate, if needed, to help you move forward with what you deserve.
Leave Your Public Bus Accident to Hoffman Law Firm
Taking a city bus is a sound choice for those seeking a trusted ride around town or simply trying to take a greener approach to their travels. While city buses, like CARTA, are safe, accidents can still happen.
When you get injured in a public bus accident, it’s important to have a trusted, local attorney on your side who is capable of tackling government entities that often oversee public transit programs. Our team at Hoffman Law Firm understands the intricacies of public transportation accidents and how to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
As the leading law firm in Charleston and Georgetown, our team at Hoffman Law Firm proudly advocates for accident victims throughout the Palmetto State.
We have established a reputation for success and excellent service! To meet with a distracted driving accident lawyer, schedule your free consultation today!
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Attorney advertising. Hoffman Law Firm is licensed in South Carolina.
