Newport News Bus Accident Lawyer

In a bus accident claim, determining liability is a critical aspect of seeking compensation for the damages you suffered. Since bus accidents involve multiple parties, understanding who is liable is complex. 

The following are potential parties to consider when establishing liability in a bus accident claim: 

• Negligence of the bus driver: The bus driver’s actions or inactions play a vital role in determining liability. If the driver was negligent, such as driving recklessly, speeding, under the influence, or failing to abide by traffic laws, he or she is liable for the accident. 
• Bus company responsibility: The bus company is responsible for the drivers it employs. The company also has a duty to ensure its buses are properly maintained.
• Bus occupants: If a bus occupant causes an accident, such as by distracting the driver, he or she is at fault for the accident.
• Other motorists: Sometimes the actions of other motorists on the road contribute to bus accidents. If another driver’s negligence, such as running a red light or making an unsafe lane change, causes the accident, he or she is liable for damages. 
• Manufacturer or maintenance provider liability: If a defect in the bus’s design or maintenance issues contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or maintenance company might be liable. This includes faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or inadequate maintenance of critical components. 
• Government entities: In some cases, government entities could be liable for a bus accident. For example, if poor road conditions or inadequate signage contributed to the accident, the responsible government agency might share liability. 

Establishing liability requires a thorough investigation of the accident, which involves gathering evidence, examining witness statements, analyzing accident reports, and reviewing surveillance footage if available. At Waterman Law Centers, PLLC, we identify all potentially liable parties and build a strong claim on your behalf.