Bus accidents can happen as you are taking a lift to work, running errands, or being transported from the airport home. Regardless of why a passenger is riding, every person should feel protected during their travels. Bus safety precautions should be taken at all costs to help prevent an accident occurring. A passenger may suffer injuries as a result of a bus accident due to the driver speeding, failing to notice traffic signs/signals, or driving while under the influence.
For those who have suffered a bus accident, may be wondering if they handled the situation as they should, and when to seek the assistance of a legal professional.
What should I do at the scene of a bus collision?
If you are involved in a bus-related accident, you can take the same steps that you would as if you were part of any other auto collision. In general, you should consider taking the following actions if it were to happen to you:
- Seek medical attention right away, even if you believe you feel okay. There could be serious injuries that have yet to be felt or observed. In the days to follow, injuries could be brewing within your body which require medical treatment. It is best to get a medical evaluation and have everything be a-okay, than to find out days later you now have a worsened condition.
- Call law enforcement and ask the officer to take a statement from you for the incident report. You can then inquire as to where you can obtain a copy of this police report in case you need it in the future for legal reasons.
- Collect the bus driver’s information, once there is not any immediate danger or threat. Ask for his or her name, telephone number, address, insurance company and drivers license number. It may also be a good idea to take pictures as proof of any visible injuries and details of the scene.
- Reach out to an attorney who is familiar with auto accidents and can provide you with guidance and advice. You may be able to seek compensation for any costs related to your injuries from the bus driver at-fault.
Should I reach out to an attorney right away about the accident?
It is never too soon to get legal advice if you have sustained injuries in a bus accident that surpass what rest and a first aid kit can do for you. Keep records of medical bills associated with your injuries, as well as a copy of the police report to bring with you to your consultation. Reaching out to an auto accident lawyer Lakeland FL has trusted could make or break if you receive your fair compensation.
What injuries are common for bus accidents?
Buses can be a relatively safe way to travel, but in the event of an accident injuries can still happen. A bus rider may suffer from whiplash, head injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, heavy bruises, deep cuts, muscle sprains and more. How long an injury takes to heal depends on how fast the bus was going and where the bus was hit at the time of impact.
Thank you to the David & Philpot, P.L law firm for the information above.