Charleston Bus and Van Accident Lawyer

Home Car Accidents Bus and Van Accidents

Let Our Charleston Firm Pursue the Compensation You Deserve After a Bus or Van Accident

Many Charleston residents rely on buses and large passenger vans for transportation. Although these vehicles make traveling more accessible for some, their size and weight could result in severe injuries when involved in a crash.

If you were injured in a bus or van accident, Allen Law in Charleston can assist you in filing a personal injury claim. Our firm is highly experienced, highly accredited, and available to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the process. Call us today at (843) 882-5005 to schedule a free initial consultation to get started.

As a smaller client-focused firm, we treat clients as real people — not file numbers”
- Julian Allen

How Bus Accidents Happen

Bus and passenger van accidents can happen for various reasons. In Charleston, some frequent causes of these accidents include:

• The driver was distracted (texting or eating while driving)
• The bus driver or the other motorist was intoxicated while driving
• The bus driver was driving aggressively
• The bus had maintenance problems or defects
• The bus driver was not qualified to operate the vehicle
• The bus driver was fatigued
• The bus driver did not follow the rules of the road (ran stop signs or red lights, did not yield to the right of way)

If an accident occurred in a school zone due to a negligent bus driver, the matter of liability may be a little more complicated. The bus driver, as well as the school system, may be liable for the accident. If the school system relied on a bus company, the bus company could be liable for the accident.

Do I Have a Bus Accident Case?

Determining whether you have a valid bus accident case involves assessing several critical factors. First, it's essential to establish fault or negligence on the part of another party, such as the bus driver, bus company, or other involved individuals. Collecting evidence, like witness statements, accident reports, and photographs, plays a crucial role in supporting your claim. Additionally, the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life—both physically and financially—will influence the case's viability. A Charleston bus and van accident attorney can help evaluate your situation thoroughly, ensuring all aspects are considered. They will guide you through the process, providing a clear understanding of your legal options. With Allen Law's no-win, no-fee policy, pursuing your claim poses minimal financial risk, allowing you to focus on recovery while knowing your case is in capable hands.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive From a Bus Accident?

Following a bus accident, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation to address their losses:

• Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and any future medical care required.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to missed work, as well as the potential loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Encompasses physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
• Property Damage: Victims may be eligible for compensation related to the repair or replacement of their property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the diminished ability to enjoy life's activities as a result of injuries sustained in the accident.

A Charleston bus and van accident lawyer can help you identify the types of compensation applicable to your case, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your claim. With their guidance, you can better navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards securing the financial relief you need to move forward.

Common Injuries From Bus and Van Accidents

Bus and van accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Common injuries include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Head Injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have long-term effects on cognitive and physical functions.
• Whiplash and Other Neck Injuries: These injuries are typical due to the sudden impact experienced during a collision.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can occur, potentially leading to paralysis or chronic pain.
• Internal Injuries: Organ damage or internal bleeding can be particularly dangerous and may not be immediately apparent.

These injuries can significantly impact your quality of life, necessitating substantial medical care and financial resources.

How a Charleston Bus and Van Accident Lawyer Can Help

A Charleston bus accident attorney plays a pivotal role in guiding you through the aftermath of an accident. Their primary function is to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, gathering critical evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. They handle all legal communications, reducing the stress of dealing with insurance companies and opposing attorneys. Moreover, they assess the full extent of your injuries and related expenses to ensure you pursue adequate compensation. With a deep understanding of personal injury law, they identify all liable parties, whether it's a negligent driver, a bus company, or another entity. Importantly, if you partner with our firm, we offer a no-win, no-fee policy, meaning you only pay if your case is successful. This arrangement allows you to focus on recovery without the burden of upfront legal costs. Partnering with an experienced attorney increases the likelihood of a favorable resolution to your case.

The Importance of Seeking Legal Help After an Injury in Charleston

Seeking legal help promptly after an accident in Charleston is crucial for safeguarding your rights and securing fair compensation. Engaging with a bus accident attorney early ensures that critical evidence is preserved and witness statements are collected while memories are fresh. Legal professionals can navigate the complexities of local laws and regulations, which can significantly impact your case's outcome. They provide valuable guidance on legal procedures and deadlines, preventing potential pitfalls that could jeopardize your claim. Moreover, having a bus accident attorney on your side often results in more favorable settlements, as insurance companies are more likely to take claims seriously when a lawyer is involved. The emotional and physical toll of an accident can be overwhelming, and legal representation allows you to focus on healing while your attorney advocates for your best interests. Ultimately, timely legal intervention is a proactive step towards achieving the justice and compensation you deserve.

The Statute of Limitations for Vehicle Accidents in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit resulting from a vehicle accident, including bus and van accidents, is generally three years from the date of the incident. This deadline is critical, as failing to file within this timeframe can result in losing your right to pursue compensation through the courts. It's essential to be aware that this time limit applies to both personal injury and property damage claims. However, there are exceptions that could alter this timeline, such as cases involving minors or incapacitated individuals. Consulting with a Charleston bus and van accident lawyer soon after an accident ensures that your claim is filed within the appropriate period, preserving your legal rights. An attorney will also help evaluate the specifics of your case to determine if any exceptions to the statute apply. Acting promptly not only protects your claim but also helps in gathering timely evidence to support your case effectively.

Our Bus and Van Accident Case Process

Navigating the aftermath of a bus or van accident can be overwhelming. At Allen Law, we have a structured process to guide you through your case, ensuring every detail is meticulously handled. Here is an overview of the steps we take to secure the compensation you deserve.

Your Free Consultation and Discussing Your Case

The initial step in our bus and van accident case process is offering a free consultation to understand your unique circumstances. During this meeting, we will listen carefully to your account of the incident, addressing any questions or concerns you may have. This consultation serves as a foundation for building a personalized legal strategy tailored to your specific needs. We assess the details of your case, including the nature of your injuries, evidence available, and potential liability issues. By the end of the consultation, you'll have a clearer understanding of your legal options and the next steps in pursuing your claim. Our commitment is to ensure you feel supported and informed as we begin the journey towards securing the compensation you deserve.

Gathering Critical Evidence

Gathering critical evidence is a pivotal stage in the bus and van accident case process. We will meticulously collect and analyze all relevant information to build a robust case. This includes obtaining police and accident reports, securing witness statements, and reviewing any available video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses. Additionally, we may collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the incident occurred. Medical records and bills will be compiled to document the extent of your injuries and the associated costs. Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and injuries serve as vital visual evidence. This thorough approach ensures that every detail is accounted for, strengthening your claim. By methodically gathering and preserving evidence, we aim to demonstrate the negligence or fault of the other party, thereby enhancing your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your losses.

Negotiating Your Accident Settlement

Negotiating your accident settlement is a critical phase where a Charleston bus and van accident lawyer leverages their skills to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Armed with the gathered evidence, your lawyer will engage with the insurance companies and opposing parties to discuss the settlement terms. The goal is to secure compensation that fully covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other related costs. Your lawyer will present a well-documented claim, emphasizing the strength of the evidence and the extent of your damages. They will counter any lowball offers and advocate fiercely on your behalf. Throughout this process, you will be kept informed about the progress and any settlement offers received. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to trial. This persistent approach ensures that your rights are protected and you receive the justice you deserve.

Determining Liability in a Bus Accident

If you were injured in a bus or van accident, more than one party could be liable for any injuries you sustained, including:

• The driver of the bus or van
• The driver’s employer
• The driver’s supervisor
• Other motorists involved in the accident
• The school bus operator
• The tour bus operator
• The manufacturer of the bus or van
• The owner of the bus or van
• The manufacturer of the bus or its parts
• The company that performs maintenance on the bus
• Governmental agencies

Proving negligence in a claim involving a bus or van can be more complex than other types of accidents, which is why hiring a knowledgeable Charleston car accident attorney is essential. We have experience in handling these cases and could help prove negligence. To prove negligence in these cases, you would need to prove that:

• The responsible party owed a duty of care
• The responsible party breached that duty of care
• The breach resulted in the accident that caused your injuries and damages

If successful, you could recover a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.

Speak to Our Charleston Bus and Van Accident Attorney About Your Case

If you sustained injuries in a Charleston bus or van accident caused by another party's negligence, hire a skilled personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. At Allen Law, our experienced personal injury lawyers in Charleston are committed to helping those who have been injured due to the carelessness of others.

We have the knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call our office today at (843) 882-5005 to schedule a free initial case review.