Practice Areas
Bus Accidents
Why Hire Hastings & Hastings?
Unrivaled Expertise
With more than 90 years of combined legal experience, the firm has the knowledge and expertise to handle any type of bus accident case, no matter how complex it is.
A Proven Track Record
We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients and will work to do the same for you.
No Fee Unless You Win
We always operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless your case is successful.
Working with Hastings & Hastings can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
How an Attorney Can Help You With a Bus Accident Case
Seeking legal help may seem overwhelming, but in the complexities of a bus accident, it’s a crucial move. They can provide the following assistance:
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Quick action is imperative after a bus accident. Skilled attorneys can immediately start the process of gathering vital evidence that can strengthen your case.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
The legal jargon and tactics employed by insurance companies can be intimidating. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side levels the playing field and ensures your rights are protected.
Fighting for Maximum Compensation
An experienced attorney is able to negotiate the highest possible compensation for their clients and, if necessary, they are prepared to go to trial.
A lawyer is your ally when dealing with the aftermath of a bus accident. Enlisting their help can mean the difference between receiving fair compensation and being left without proper support.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Phoenix
Bus accidents in Phoenix can be attributed to a wide range of causes. Whether it’s city buses, school buses, or tour buses, common factors leading to these incidents include:
Bus transit drivers, despite their training and oversight, are not immune to fatigue. Long shifts and demanding schedules can lead to lapses in attentiveness and, in the worst cases, result in accidents.
Buses are complex machines with thousands of moving parts, any of which can malfunction. A lack of proper maintenance can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Whether due to lack of experience, training, or a momentary lapse in judgment, the actions of the bus operator play a significant role in many accidents. From running red lights to making improper lane changes, the driver’s decisions can have far-reaching consequences.
Steps to Take After a Bus Accident
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Seek Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel okay immediately after the accident, you may have injuries with delayed symptoms. Seeking medical care ensures your well-being and creates a record of your injuries for any future legal proceedings.
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Document the Accident Scene
If you’re able, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos, get the names and contact information of witnesses, and write down your recollection of events.
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Report the Accident
Notify the local authorities about the accident. A police report serves as an official record of the incident, which is important for any insurance or legal claims.
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Preserve Evidence
Don’t fix anything related to the accident, save the damaged property, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Evidence preservation is key to building a strong case.
Following these steps can protect your well-being and bolster your legal case. It’s crucial to remember that what you do now can profoundly affect the outcome of your claim or lawsuit later.
Potential Liability Parties in a Bus Accident
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The Bus Driver
The driver’s actions are usually the most apparent source of liability. If negligence on their part caused the accident, they may be held directly accountable.
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The Bus Company
The bus company has a responsibility to ensure the safety of their passengers. If they failed to properly maintain the vehicle or hire a competent driver, they may also be liable for the accident. They can also be held vicariously liable in some cases even if they didn’t directly do anything wrong.
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Vehicle Manufacturer
If a defect in the bus contributed to or caused the accident, the manufacturer may also be held responsible. This can include issues with brakes, tires, or other mechanical parts.
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Other Negligent Drivers
In some cases, multiple vehicles may be involved in a bus accident. If another driver’s negligence caused the collision, they may also be held liable for damages.
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Government Entities
Public transportation often involves government entities, and if their negligence played a role, these entities may be implicated.
Identifying all possible liable parties is crucial in ensuring that you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Damages You May Be Entitled to After a Bus Accident in Phoenix
Economic Damages
These damages are quantifiable in monetary terms and most often include medical expenses directly related to the injuries from the accident, lost wages due to time away from work, and costs for repairing property.
Non-Economic Damages
These cover less tangible and subjective losses, which often include pain and suffering, emotional distress, reduced quality of life, and loss of consortium.
Punitive Damages
Punitive Damages are less commonly awarded and are done so to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. For these to be awarded in Arizona, the plaintiff must show that the defendant acted with an “evil mind.”
“A defendant acts with an evil mind if he “should be consciously aware of the evil of his actions, of the spitefulness of his motives or that his conduct is so outrageous, oppressive or intolerable in that it creates a substantial risk of tremendous harm to others.
If you’ve been in a bus accident in Phoenix, understanding what you might be entitled to is key. To determine what types of damages and how much you might be able to obtain, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
You pay nothing upfront and nothing out of pocket. Hastings & Hastings only gets paid if your case results in a recovery.
Hastings & Hastings is known for its 29% settlement fee, giving clients a more affordable way to get experienced legal representation.
Compared to firms that charge 33.33%, our lower fee structure gives Hastings & Hastings a meaningful cost advantage.
Our Accident & Injury Attorneys Can Help
Navigating the legal system after a bus accident can be complicated, but fortunately, you don’t have to handle it alone. Hastings & Hastings have the experience needed to handle all types of personal injury cases, including accidents involving buses. We understand the nuances of Arizona law and how to pursue the maximum compensation for our clients.
Free Consultation
Talk with Hastings & Hastings about your case
If you were hurt in an accident, our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand the next step.
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