Lafayette Bus Accident Attorneys

Injured in a Bus Accident in Lafayette, LA?

If you or a loved one have been injured in a bus accident in Lafayette, Louisiana, you need experienced legal representation to secure the compensation you deserve. At Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C., our Lafayette bus accident lawyers are dedicated to helping accident victims navigate the complexities of personal injury claims. With a proven track record of success, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Call (337) 222-3526 or complete our online contact form today to schedule a free case review with our team.

Common Types of Buses

Bus accidents can involve various types of buses, each presenting unique challenges in pursuing a claim. Common types of buses include:

• Public Transit Buses: Public buses operated by city or regional transit systems are often involved in accidents due to high passenger loads, frequent stops, and busy urban environments.
• School Buses: School buses are among the most common types of buses on the road. Accidents involving school buses can be particularly devastating due to the number of children on board.
• Private Charter Buses: These buses are hired for specific events or group travel and are typically operated by private companies. Accidents involving charter buses often result in disputes over insurance coverage and liability.
• Intercity Buses: Greyhound, Megabus, and similar companies operate long-distance buses. Accidents involving these vehicles can lead to jurisdictional complexities and higher stakes due to the number of passengers and severity of injuries.
• Tour Buses: Tour buses often carry passengers unfamiliar with the area. Accidents involving tour buses may result from driver negligence, poor road conditions, or vehicle maintenance issues.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Identifying the cause is crucial in determining who is responsible for your injuries. Some common causes include:

• Driver Error: Bus drivers are required to undergo special training and maintain a commercial driver’s license, but errors such as distracted driving, speeding, and fatigue can still lead to accidents.
• Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and engine problems can cause bus accidents. These issues may result from poor maintenance or defective parts.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, construction zones, and insufficient signage can contribute to bus accidents. In these cases, a municipality or government entity may be held responsible.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can make driving more hazardous, especially for large vehicles like buses. Drivers must take extra precautions in bad weather.
• Other Drivers: Sometimes, a third-party driver’s reckless or negligent actions cause a bus accident. These situations require thorough investigation to assign fault appropriately.

Who is Liable for a Bus Accident?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex because multiple parties may share responsibility. At Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C., our Lafayette bus accident lawyers will investigate every aspect of your case to identify all liable parties. Potentially responsible parties include:

• The Bus Driver: If the driver’s negligence, such as speeding or driving under the influence, caused the accident, they might be held liable.
• The Bus Company: Employers are often held accountable for their drivers’ actions. Additionally, bus companies can be liable for failing to maintain their vehicles or properly train their drivers.
• Government Entities: If a public transit bus is involved, the government agency overseeing the transit system may be responsible. Claims against government entities require adherence to specific legal procedures and timelines.
• Manufacturers: If a defective part or mechanical failure contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the faulty component could be held liable.
• Other Drivers: If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, they could be held responsible for damages.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

Taking the right steps after a bus accident is crucial to protect your legal rights and strengthen your case:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including the bus, other vehicles involved, and any visible injuries.
3. Gather Information: Collect contact details from the bus driver, other drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
4. Report the Accident: File a report with the appropriate authorities and request a copy for your records.
5. Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced Lafayette bus accident lawyer at Doran & Cawthorne, P.L.L.C., as soon as possible.

If you need an experienced, knowledgeable, and highly skilled Lafayette bus accident attorney, contact us online or call us at (337) 222-3526 to schedule a free consultation today.