When bus accidents happen in East Point, the consequences can be severe, leaving victims with painful injuries and other life-changing damages. Bus accidents are also different from a typical car, truck, or bike accidents because they can involve a large number of people. If you were hurt in a bus accident, or you have a child or loved one who was affected by a bus accident, it’s time to take action. You may be entitled to financial recovery for your damages, ranging from minor to fatal. It’s time to call an East Point bus accident lawyer.
Our lawyers hold more than 20 years of experience helping victims of bus accidents recover the money they need to get better, cover their expenses, and move on with their lives as fully as possible. We’re here to listen and to support you in the insurance claim process. For a free consultation with one of our attorneys to discuss your options, call us today at 404-341-6555, or fill out the online form to your right to get started.
Four Steps to Take if You’re Hurt on a Bus in East Point
Your safety is the most important factor after a bus accident, followed by protecting yourself legally. Here’s what you need to do after being injured in a bus accident.
1. Get Medical Attention.
If you are seriously injured after the accident and need immediate medical attention, don’t hesitate to get it. Emergency injuries will just worsen with time. However, if you are well enough to stay at the scene, there are some things you can do to protect yourself on the insurance claim side.
2. Contact Police.
Any accident in Georgia with injuries and/or more than $500 in property damage should be reported to the police. If the bus driver is too injured to call the police, you can do it yourself. Officers will come to the scene and create a police report on the bus accident. This is an important step for your insurance claim and also serves as proof that the accident occurred.
3. Gather Information
The more information you can compile demonstrating the accident, the better it is for your claim. Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, the bus, your injuries, and all the damages. If anyone is actually suspiciously, such as suspected drunk driving by the bus driver or another driver in the accident, try to get a video of their behavior.
You might also use your phone to jot down all the details you can remember before, during, and after the accident. When the police arrive, tell them any details you can as well. You may also speak with any witnesses to the accident. Your personal injury lawyer will likely reach out to them soon for a statement.
This also includes keeping detailed records of how you handle your injuries and other damages from the accident. Keep track of all doctor visits, medical bills, x-rays or other tests, and receipts for payments you made related to the accident. These are damages you’re entitled to make an insurance claim for.
4. Contact a Bus Accident Lawyer.
Even with all of these details in mind, it’s difficult to handle the insurance claim process without a legal professional. This is because insurance companies are for-profit businesses that unfortunately don’t have your needs as their number one priority. They will be looking for ways to cut costs and offer the minimum for your claim.
If you get pushback from the at-fault party’s insurance company, you definitely need a bus accident lawyer who can help you fight for a fair settlement.
What Kind of Injuries Are Most Common in Bus Accidents?
Bus accidents can happen for many of the same reasons as other auto accidents. That includes speeding, driving while distracted (such as while on a cell phone), or illegal activities like drunk driving. However, bus accidents can also happen due to faulty equipment or improper maintenance.
No matter the cause, bus accidents are often more likely to end in catastrophic injuries to passengers, other drivers, or pedestrians. Buses typically don’t have the same safety features—like airbags and seatbelts—that passenger vehicles do. Plus, buses are more top-heavy, meaning it’s more likely for them to roll over during an accident and increase the chance of injuries.
Common bus accident injuries may include:
- Neck strains and whiplash
- Cuts and lacerations
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
Whether your injuries are minor or very severe, you can seek financial recovery for your costs. And even minor injuries may worsen with time or require unexpected ongoing treatment, so never discount them. Contact a bus accident lawyer soon after your accident so they can help you figure out what your full damages will likely be.
I Thought I Only Had Minor Injuries, But Now the Pain Won’t Go Away. What Do I Do?
When you’re in an accident, your body can go into “fight or flight” mode, releasing hormones that act as natural pain relievers. So, you might not feel the full extent of pain until hours or even days later. Plus, some injuries can get worse over time.
If you have injuries that are still painful or have gotten worse, don’t ignore it. See your doctor to access the changes, and take pictures if there are visible differences. Like before, document all costs related to the new pain.
Also, call your lawyer to tell them about the pain. It will need to be accounted for in your insurance claim because it’s a result of the accident. You shouldn’t have to pay a dime for expenses from an accident you didn’t cause.
Talk to an East Point Bus Accident Lawyer for Free
Bus accidents have some specific differences compared to other accidents on East Point roads, but there are just as serious and you shouldn’t have to pay for your damages. Our attorneys are trained to stand up to insurance companies and make them pay the full amount victims deserve. With more than 20 years of experience in personal injury law, we know how to win cases. And we always start with a FREE consultation to discuss your case and your options. For a free consultation as soon as possible, call us today at 404-341-6555 today, or fill out the form to your right today.
