When bus accidents happen, the consequences can be catastrophic. These large vehicles outweigh the passenger cars they share the road with by thousands of pounds, and the impact of a collision can be devastating. An Owatonna bus accident lawyer can answer your questions about how the legal process works.
If you have been injured in a bus crash, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation from the at-fault party. Whether the blame lies with the bus driver, their employer, or someone else, our skilled personal injury attorneys are ready to help you with your claim.
Bus accidents often lead to serious injuries because passengers are rarely secured the way they would be in a car. Many buses do not have seatbelts, and standing passengers have no protection at all. When a crash or sudden stop occurs, you can be thrown into seats, windows, or other passengers. This does not reflect the potential severity of injuries for occupants of smaller vehicles involved in these collisions. Some common conditions include the following:
The size and weight of a bus can also increase the severity of injuries for people in other vehicles or pedestrians. Even a low-speed collision can cause significant harm due to the force involved.
A lawyer can build an Owatonna bus accident claim that reflects the seriousness of your injuries.
Bus accident claims often involve multiple parties. One of the major benefits that comes with hiring an attorney is their ability to identify all of the potential defendants in your Owatonna bus wreck case.
If the driver acted negligently—such as speeding, driving while distracted, or failing to follow traffic laws—they may be held directly responsible for the accident.
When a private company owns or operates the bus, it may be liable for the driver’s actions. These companies also have a duty to train their drivers and keep their vehicles in safe, working order. When they fail to do so, the companies could be on the hook for any damages that occur.
If a mechanical failure contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the bus or a defective part may be responsible. This can include issues with everything from braking systems to tires.
City buses and school buses are often operated by government agencies. Claims against these entities follow different rules, including strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines.
Under Minnesota Statutes § 541.05, you generally have six years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you do not file your lawsuit on time, the court may have little choice but to dismiss your case with prejudice. Not only will that end your lawsuit, but also any hope of recovering damages following a bus crash.
Waiting too long can also make it harder to prove your case. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses may forget important details. Acting early allows your attorney to investigate the bus crash, preserve key evidence, and build a stronger claim in Owatonna on your behalf. An attorney can ensure you meet this important deadline.
If you have been hurt in a bus crash, you can benefit from legal counsel who understands what is at stake. Our attorneys are based in Mankato, but we have spent years fighting for the injured in the surrounding areas as well. Contact us today for a consultation with an Owatonna bus accident lawyer.
