FOLLOW US ON
As urban areas become increasingly populated, more people are turning to public transportation to beat the traffic, get to work, school, and across town. One of the most common forms of public transportation is the bus. While busses are convenient, a collision can be particularly dangerous due to the likelihood that passengers may be unrestrained or even standing during the accident.
If you or a loved one were injured due to the negligent action of another, no matter how minor or severe, you should contact a Riverdale bus accident lawyer. As a result of your accident, you may have bruising, fractures, broken bones, head trauma, or any number of other physical injuries. Furthermore, those involved in traffic accidents often can also suffer from unseen emotional trauma. After a consultation and depending on your case, a diligent personal injury attorney may be able to present your legal rights to a court to find a favorable resolution to your situation.
There can be any number of reasons for a bus accident. The most common causes of a bus collision include:
A Riverdale bus accident attorney could analyze the facts and circumstances of your case and help you to determine the exact cause of a collision.
In a typical personal injury claim, a lawsuit is filed in a civil court where the plaintiff will try to prove the defendant was negligent. This might be the circumstance if the bus-accident-in-question was with a private company that the plaintiff, or another party, hired and paid for transportation.
Common carriers are held to a higher standard than the typical negligence claim. By definition, they are businesses that transport the general public under a license from a regulatory body. Common carriers are subject to the Common Carrier Liability Act, under 740 Illinois Compiled Statutes 25/1, which holds them to strict safety standards and imposes the highest degree of safety to passengers.
If a plaintiff’s damages arose while they were riding under the auspices of such a service, they might be subject to a less-stringent standard in order to prove their case. Either way, it is advisable a plaintiff consult with a Riverdale bus accident attorney as to what standard of care they may be subject to in their lawsuit.
If a vehicle is deemed to fall under the jurisdiction of the government, a lawsuit can be more difficult to bring. Besides the fact that the government is not subject to the same heightened scrutiny of a common carrier, plaintiffs also have less time to file a claim.
While a plaintiff will typically have two years from the day they were injured to bring a claim to court under, 735 I.L.C.S. §5/13/202, they will only have six months if the suit is against a government entity. Since a missed statutory deadline can result in an entire claim being dismissed, a plaintiff should consult with a Riverdale bus accident attorney to more easily avoid these issues.
Depending upon the party responsible for an accident, when it occurred, and the damages you sustained can all have an impact on your case. Therefore, if you have been severely injured in an accident, you should consult with a Riverdale bus accident lawyer.
A diligent lawyer can use their knowledge and experience to help you understand your legal rights and legal options. Call today to schedule a consultation.