Buffalo, New York, is a bustling city with a vibrant transportation system. However, with the increasing number of vehicles on the roads, bus accidents are becoming more common. If you’re involved in a bus accident in Buffalo, it’s essential to understand the laws surrounding such incidents.
Here’s what you need to know about Buffalo’s bus accident laws:
Fault in Bus Accidents
New York is a no-fault state, meaning that insurance companies pay for the damages, regardless of who is at fault. However, this applies to car accidents, not bus accidents. Bus accidents are different because the bus is usually operated by a government agency, making the liability more complicated.
Who is Liable in a Bus Accident?
Several parties can be held responsible for a bus accident. These include the bus driver, the bus company, the bus manufacturer, and the local government agency responsible for maintaining the roads. Depending on the circumstances, one or more parties may be held liable for the damages.
Statute of Limitations
If you’re involved in a bus accident in Buffalo, you must file a claim within a specific period. In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years. If you fail to file your claim within this time frame, you may be barred from pursuing legal action.
Compensation for Damages
If you’re involved in a bus accident, you may be eligible for compensation for your damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, the amount of compensation you receive will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and the extent of your damages.
Working with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating Buffalo’s bus accident laws can be complicated, and it’s essential to work with a personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process. An experienced attorney can assist you in negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and representing you in court if necessary.
Bus Accident Investigations
After a bus accident, the police and the transportation agency responsible for the bus may conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. The investigation can help determine liability and identify any safety issues with the bus or road. It is essential to cooperate with the authorities and provide any information relevant to the investigation.
Comparative Negligence
In some cases, the injured party may have contributed to the accident, and this can affect the amount of compensation they can receive. New York follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means that a person’s damages can be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if the injured party is found to be 30% at fault, their damages will be reduced by 30%.
Bus Company Liability Insurance
Bus companies are required to carry liability insurance to cover damages resulting from accidents. The amount of coverage required depends on the type and size of the bus. This insurance can help cover the costs of damages and injuries resulting from a bus accident.
Seeking Medical Attention
In any bus accident, seeking medical attention is crucial, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not manifest immediately, and delaying medical treatment can lead to further complications. Additionally, seeking medical attention can help establish a record of your injuries, which can be useful in pursuing compensation.
Safety Measures to Avoid Bus Accidents
While it’s impossible to prevent all bus accidents, there are several safety measures that bus companies, drivers, and passengers can take to reduce the risk of accidents. These include regular bus maintenance, adhering to traffic laws, wearing seat belts, and avoiding distractions while driving.
As a law firm based in Buffalo, New York, we at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC have extensive experience handling personal injury cases, including bus accidents. We understand the complex nature of Buffalo’s bus accident laws and the challenges that these cases present. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal process and protect your legal rights.
We can assist you with:
- Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses to determine liability.
- Reviewing your medical records and consulting with medical professionals to determine the extent of your injuries and the potential long-term effects.
- Negotiating with the insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Representing you in court if necessary, advocating for your rights and fighting for the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
- Providing guidance and support throughout the legal process, answering your questions, and keeping you informed about the progress of your case.
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we are committed to helping our clients achieve favorable outcomes. We have a proven track record of success in handling bus accident cases and have helped numerous clients recover the compensation they deserve.
If you have been involved in a bus accident in Buffalo, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal rights and options and guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.