Experienced Fresno Bus Accidents Lawyer
Fresno Bus Accidents Attorney
Find out why we are some of the best Fresno bus accidents lawyers
Overview of Fresno Bus Accidents
In recent years, Fresno has witnessed a series of bus accidents that have sparked discussions on improving road safety. These incidents have involved various factors, including driver error, inadequate maintenance, and the complex interplay between buses, other vehicles, and pedestrians.
Bus accidents in Fresno encompass a broad spectrum of incidents, ranging from minor collisions to more severe accidents resulting in injuries or fatalities. The aftermath of such accidents can lead to a complex web of legal issues, including determining liability, insurance claims, and seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Victims and their families may find themselves navigating a challenging path toward justice, necessitating expert legal guidance to protect their rights and receive the compensation they deserve.
Types of Buses in Fresno
When it comes to bus accidents in Fresno, various types of buses can be involved. These include:
- Fresno Area Express (FAX) Buses: FAX buses are common on Fresno's streets. The public transportation buses are utilized by over 26,000 individuals daily, and accidents involving these buses pose a significant risk for injuries.
- Handy Ride Paratransit Service Buses: Handy Ride buses provide transportation for people with disabilities in Fresno. Accidents involving these buses can occur due to various factors, including driver error or other vehicles on the road.
- Greyhound: Fresno has unfortunately experienced its fair share of Greyhound bus accidents, which have caused significant injuries and even fatalities.
- Amtrak: Although primarily known for its train services, Amtrak also operates buses in Fresno. Accidents involving Amtrak buses can occur on highways or city roads.
- Private Carriers: Various private carriers provide bus services in Fresno, serving different purposes such as transportation for events or group outings.
- Government/municipal Buses: Buses operated by government entities or municipalities, such as those serving specific districts or government agencies, can also be involved in accidents in Fresno.
- School Buses: Accidents involving school buses are a concern for parents and the Fresno community. These accidents can occur during regular school transportation or during extracurricular activities.
- Private charter Buses: Charter buses are commonly used for group travel, such as for sports teams, corporate events, or tours.
- Tour Buses: Sightseeing motor coaches and tour buses serve Fresno's vibrant tourism industry. Accidents involving these buses can happen during guided tours or transport to popular tourist destinations.
- Vans: Vans used for transportation purposes, such as shuttle services or private transportation, can also be involved in accidents in Fresno.
Types of Injuries Associated with Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including catastrophic bodily injury and even death. Bus passengers are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries due to the large size and lack of safety restraints in most buses.
- Head Injuries
Head injuries are among the most common injuries in bus accidents. They can be caused by being struck by the dashboard, windshield, or other objects in the bus or by being thrown from the bus. Head injuries can range from mild concussions to serious brain injuries. - Neck Injuries
Neck injuries can be caused by the sudden deceleration of the bus during a crash. They can also be caused by being thrown from the bus. Neck injuries can range from mild whiplash to serious spinal cord injuries. - Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are the most serious type of injury that can occur in a bus accident. They can be caused by the sudden deceleration of the bus during a crash. Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis, loss of feeling, and other serious complications. - Internal Injuries
Internal injuries can occur in bus accidents when the body is violently thrown around inside the bus. These injuries can include liver lacerations, spleen ruptures, and internal bleeding. Internal injuries can be life-threatening. - Fractures
Fractures are another common type of injury in bus accidents. They can occur in any bone in the body, but the most common fractures in bus accidents are fractures to the legs, arms, and ribs.
Causes of Bus Accidents in Fresno
Bus accidents in Fresno can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. Understanding the various causes of these accidents is essential in order to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of passengers and drivers.
From 2012 to 2021, the majority of deaths in school bus-related fatal crashes involved occupants of vehicles other than the school bus, followed by pedestrians. A small percentage were school bus passengers, school bus drivers, and cyclists. [1]
- Fatigued drivers - One of the leading causes of bus accidents in Fresno is fatigued drivers. Long working hours and inadequate rest can impair a driver's ability to focus on the road and react swiftly to potentially dangerous situations.
- Improperly trained drivers - Improperly trained drivers are more likely to make errors that can lead to accidents.
- Distracted driving - Distractions such as talking on the phone, texting, or engaging with passengers can divert the driver's attention away from the road.
- Speeding - Exceeding the speed limit reduces the driver's ability to respond to unexpected events and increases the severity of the accident.
- Defective vehicles - Malfunctioning brakes, tires, or steering mechanisms can lead to loss of control and catastrophic accidents.
Navigating the Insurance System
Navigating through the insurance system after an injury, property damage, or death stemming from a bus-related accident in Fresno can be complex and overwhelming. Understanding the process and seeking proper legal representation is important to ensure fair compensation. Accepting initial settlement offers without consulting a personal injury attorney can be detrimental to your case.
Bus-related accident claims in Fresno can involve different types of buses, including school buses, commercial buses, and motor coaches. The potentially liable parties in these claims may include the bus driver, the bus company, the school district (in the case of a school bus accident), or even the manufacturer of a defective bus or its parts.
When dealing with insurance companies, know that their main objective is to settle your claim for the lowest possible amount. They may try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge regarding your rights and the true value of your case.
An experienced personal injury attorney in Fresno can guide you through the process of navigating the insurance system, ensuring that all necessary documentation, such as medical records and police reports, is properly gathered and presented.
On average, school buses have been involved in approximately 26,000 crashes per year over the past 11 years, resulting in 10 fatalities. Of those fatalities, 25 percent were drivers, and 75 percent were passengers. [2]
Finding an Experienced Fresno Bus Accident Lawyer
Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling bus accident claims and understand the complexities involved in these cases. We have a deep understanding of both state and federal bus safety regulations and can easily navigate the intricacies of accident cases. Our expertise allows us to accurately assess liability and hold the responsible parties accountable.
One of the key advantages of working with Goldberg & Loren is our commitment to you as a client. We offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your case without any financial burden.
We have a proven track record of success in bus-related accident cases, having recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Our dedication to clients and our expertise in bus accident claims make us a reliable choice for those seeking legal representation in Fresno.
If you or a loved one have been a bus accident victim in Fresno, you need someone who will fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
We want to help you obtain justice and financial recovery for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our dedicated team will guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us start working on your Fresno bus accident case. Don’t wait; the sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Sources:
[1] School Bus Crashes – Injury Facts. (n.d.). Injury Facts. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/school-bus/.
[2] NHTSA’s Unedited Summary of School Bus Report – Other Resources (CA Dept of Education). (n.d.). NHTSA’s Unedited Summary of School Bus Report – Other Resources (CA Dept of Education). https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/tn/or/nhtsa3702.asp
If you've been involved in a recent bus accident in Fresno, we highly recommend contacting our skilled team for a complimentary consultation. We are available to offer you more information on how we can assist you during this challenging time.
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