Indianapolis is a large city, so many people rely on public transportation instead of driving themselves and dealing with traffic and parking. While these are safe, there is still a risk of being involved in a crash that could leave you with life-changing injuries.
If this has happened to you or a loved one, an Indianapolis bus accident lawyer at Eskew Law could help you pursue financial compensation for your losses. Our resourceful personal injury attorneys have experience handling the challenges and complexities of litigation while working to find solutions for our clients. We are here to guide you through the legal process so you can focus on moving forward after an accident.
Like any other motor vehicle, driving a bus requires skill and concentration to avoid collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians. However, because buses are significantly longer and heavier than a standard car, operators must have a higher level of skill and awareness. Buses need a wider berth to make turns and take a longer distance to come to a complete stop.
In this sense, many bus accidents are caused by the same things as car crashes, such as:
These are usually attributed to the driver, but there are other causes that could be the responsibility of someone else who is nowhere near the scene of the accident. For example, poor maintenance of the vehicle or faulty mechanical parts could lead to malfunction during travel.
Regardless of the reason, being in a collision with a bus in Indianapolis could have devastating consequences for everyone involved, and an attorney could help victims with their legal options. It may be possible to file a claim to recover compensation from the responsible party’s insurance.
As with any other car crash claim, one of the key factors in a bus accident case is determining who was at fault for the incident. However, this may not always be clear when a bus is involved.
While the bus driver is the first party to evaluate because they had immediate control over the vehicle, the company that employs them could also share some of the responsibility, especially if there is evidence of inadequate hiring and training practices. This, however, could introduce additional complications.
Most buses are owned and operated by the Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation, or IndyGo, which is a government agency. Filing a claim against a government entity raises the issue of sovereign immunity, which generally protects agencies or departments from liability. However, under the Indiana Tort Claims Act, the state waives this immunity in certain personal injury cases, including bus crashes. Before pursuing a claim in court, an injured party must first provide notice to the appropriate agency and allow time for a response.
A lawyer with knowledge of bus crash cases in Indianapolis could review the situation and determine who was at fault. They could then prepare the necessary documents to file a claim and work towards recovering the compensation victims need and deserve.
Being in any type of crash is a confusing and difficult experience. If you have been injured, an Indianapolis bus accident lawyer from Eskew Law could provide support throughout the legal process.
We offer a free initial consultation to learn more about your situation and what options could be available. Call our firm to set up a meeting with one of our attorneys.
Meet with the attorney to discuss your legal issue. This initial meeting helps you understand their expertise and decide if they’re the right fit.
Review and sign a retainer agreement. This contract outlines the services, fees, and other essential terms.
Gather and provide all relevant documents related to your case. This step helps your attorney build your case efficiently.
Set expectations for how and when you’ll communicate with your attorney. Clear communication ensures that you stay informed throughout the process.
Facing legal issues can be very overwhelming. Defending against criminal charges, navigating a personal injury claim, and advocating for yourself during a family law case can be difficult when you’re also balancing all your other responsibilities. At Eskew Law, we know how challenging this time can be for you, and we are dedicated to making it easier for you and your family.
If you are looking for a compassionate lawyer serving Indianapolis with integrity and professionalism, look no further than Eskew Law. With over seventy-five years of experience serving clients in Indiana, we are confident that we can help you get the answers you need and reach the resolution you deserve in your case.
