What to Do After a Bus Collision?

Thousands of persons ride buses every day in Southeastern Connecticut. In fact, according to statistics issued by the Federal Transit Administration, 3,749 unlinked bus trips took place every day during 2016 on Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) buses. What’s more, this statistic does not account for the thousands more who use the various charter and regional bus services in the area.

Unfortunately, buses get into accidents just like any other vehicle, sometimes with disastrous consequences. Because buses can carry many more passengers than cars or trucks, bus crashes often injure many more victims than other accidents. In addition, bus wrecks can hurt not only those on the bus, but also other motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and anyone else in the vicinity. If your injuries allow it, after a bus accident, protect your legal rights by taking the following steps.

Seek Medical Care

After a bus accident, see your physician and request a complete medical evaluation. This will identify and treat any injuries you suffered in the accident. Second, it will result in the creation of an official medical record that can you can use as evidence of your injuries. Your attorney can use this evidence in negotiations with the insurance company or in court, should your case go to trial.

Call the Police

Chances are the police will show up at the accident without you calling, but it can’t hurt to let them know yourself. The police will evaluate the scene and determine whether any legal violations (such as traffic offenses or drunk or drugged driving) caused the accident. If someone’s illegal act caused your accident, you will find it easier to identify the at-fault party and collect compensation.

Collect Information

If you can, collect as much information at the accident scene as possible. Take pictures of the aftermath and try to obtain contact information from anyone who may have seen the accident. Keep any documentation you receive regarding the accident, such as a police report or an incident report from the bus company, for your attorney.

Retain an Attorney as Soon as Possible

After an accident resulting in injury, call a lawyer as soon as you can. An attorney will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your physical and emotional recovery. In addition, your lawyer will attempt to negotiate a settlement that covers all of your losses—including those that are difficult to establish, such as your physical and emotional pain and suffering.

Call Polito & Harrington Today to Schedule a Free Consultation with a New London Personal Injury Attorney

Connecticut law often entitles bus accident victims to significant compensation. Polito & Harrington are dedicated to helping the injured obtain justice, and we know how to get insurance companies to pay up. To schedule your free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in New London, call our office today at (860) 447-3300 or send us an email through our online contact form.