Cortlandt buses serve a large number of individuals, and it is the responsibility of bus drivers to prioritize the safety of both passengers and the vehicle while on the road. Unfortunately, seeking compensation following a bus accident can prove to be a difficult task.
Dealing with bus accident cases can be complicated since the driver might not be the only one at fault. But, with the assistance of our bus accident lawyers, you can navigate the legal hurdles and obtain the compensation you deserve. It is possible that the bus company responsible for the accident can be held liable for their driver’s negligence. However, certain government transit companies have legal safeguards in place that make them immune to lawsuits.
Contact The Martello Law Firm, PLLC today at (914) 685-6950 for a free case evaluation with our bus accident lawyers.
Common Bus Accidents That Occur in Cortlandt, NY
In Cortlandt, bus accidents are not uncommon and can present different challenges based on the type of bus involved. However, most bus accidents can lead to severe injuries, and you might be entitled to compensation. Thankfully, our skilled bus accident lawyers can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve, regardless of the type of bus you were injured in. Here are the typical types of bus accidents that take place in Cortlandt:
Common Carrier Bus Accidents
Accidents involving common carrier buses, such as Megabus and Greyhound, are not uncommon as they offer transportation services for a fee. Additionally, buses operated by governmental agencies and schools also fall under this category. However, it is important to note that drivers of these buses are held to a higher standard of care compared to regular drivers. They are expected to exercise extraordinary diligence while operating their vehicles and failing to meet this standard can result in liability.
Public Transit Bus Accidents
There are various reliable and affordable public transportation options available in Cortlandt that are utilized by the community. City buses and their drivers cover significant distances every day, providing transportation services to thousands of residents. Unfortunately, accidents involving public transit buses are not uncommon, and often, the bus driver’s negligence is the cause. However, before the public transit company can be held accountable, certain obstacles usually need to be addressed.
School Bus Accidents
In Cortlandt, school bus accidents are unfortunately common. Parents rely on school buses to safely transport their children to and from school. However, due to the large number of children being transported daily, accidents are a reality that cannot be avoided.
Typical Causes of Bus Accidents in Cortlandt, NY
If you happen to get involved in a bus accident in Cortlandt, you might sustain injuries in various ways. Nonetheless, certain causes are more prevalent than others. Although most bus accidents are attributed to negligence, some are due to road and environmental factors, which can make it challenging to determine accountability. Below are the typical ways bus accidents happen in Cortlandt:
Failure to Follow Traffic Laws
Ignoring traffic laws is a prevalent cause of bus accidents in Cortlandt. Such violations involve speeding, reckless driving, and failure to yield the right of way, resulting in collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians. To avoid such mishaps, bus drivers must follow the posted speed limits, maintain a safe distance when driving around other vehicles, and exercise caution when approaching intersections.
Distracted Driving
Bus accidents are more likely to happen when drivers are distracted by activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or checking the various displays that many buses have now. Distracted driving reduces a driver’s ability to react quickly to changing road conditions and increases the likelihood of accidents. To prevent distracted driving, bus drivers should refrain from using electronic devices while driving and solely concentrate on the road. Passengers can also cause distractions if they engage in unnecessary conversations with the driver or cause an incident while the bus is moving.
Mechanical Failures
Bus accidents can be caused by faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues that result in a loss of control. To prevent such mechanical failures, it is crucial to conduct regular inspections and maintenance. Bus companies have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles undergo routine maintenance checks and promptly address any issues that might arise. Additionally, bus drivers should inspect their vehicles before taking them into service, as this responsibility typically falls on them.
Poor Weather Conditions
When the weather takes a turn for the worse, visibility and road conditions can be affected, leading to an increased risk of bus accidents in Cortlandt. To avoid such incidents, bus drivers must exercise caution during adverse weather conditions. They should reduce their speed, keep a safe following distance, and use appropriate lighting. It is important to note that since buses are quite large, they might lose traction on slick roads during heavy rain, which could result in the bus rolling over on its side.
Poor Road Conditions
Cortlandt bus accidents are often caused by potholes, uneven surfaces, and poorly marked lanes or intersections. To ensure the safety of all road users, it is important for local authorities to prioritize road repair and maintenance. Bus drivers can also play a role by remaining alert and avoiding potential hazards whenever possible. Nevertheless, even the most attentive bus driver might not be able to spot every road hazard. In such situations, it might be necessary to take legal action against the government agency responsible for maintaining the road where the accident occurred.
Damages You Can Recover in a Cortlandt, NY Bus Accident Lawsuit
In the aftermath of a bus accident in Cortlandt, victims are entitled to seek compensation for two types of damages: economic and non-economic. Economic damages encompass financial losses incurred as a result of the accident, such as medical expenses and lost income. Non-economic damages, also known as “pain and suffering,” are intended to compensate victims for the emotional and physical toll of their injuries.
Economic Damages
In the unfortunate event of getting injured in a bus accident, the financial impact can be measured in terms of economic damages. These damages include expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other costs related to your injuries. Additionally, they should cover expenses incurred for emergency room visits, office visits, diagnostic testing, prescriptions, and follow-up care.
If you are hospitalized due to the accident, you are entitled to compensation for the total cost of your hospital stay, including surgery. Rehabilitation services like physical therapy and chiropractic care can also be compensated. In case your injuries result in permanent disability, compensation should cover additional expenses related to future treatment. Moreover, if medical treatment or rehabilitation causes you to miss work, you are entitled to lost wages. If serious bus injuries prevent you from working in your previous capacity or field, you can claim a loss of future earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are losses that cannot be measured in monetary terms and are vital to the victim. Such damages comprise emotional distress, physical pain, disfigurement, loss of companionship, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life. Proving non-economic damages can be challenging, but your personal account can often demonstrate how your injuries have impacted your life. Moreover, expert witnesses can testify about the lasting emotional and physical effects of your injuries.
Our Cortlandt, NY Bus Accident Lawyers Can Help
Call The Martello Law Firm, PLLC at (914) 685-6950 to speak with our bus accident attorneys and receive your free case review.
