Baton Rouge Bus Accident Lawyer

Baton Rouge Bus Accident Attorney

When a bus crash happens, some people try to dodge blame. This can make it tougher for victims to get help for their injuries. They might need the help of a Baton Rouge bus accident lawyer to get those responsible to pay for the damages they caused. Bus accidents are often quite complicated, so it’s important to act fast and consult a professional. Speaking with a local personal injury lawyer in Baton Rouge can also help you better understand your rights and how much compensation you may be entitled to.

Here for Our Clients Around the Clock

The Lucky Law Firm, PLC, features Baton Rouge car accident lawyers who understand difficult vehicle collisions. We know how tough a car or bus accident can be on injured people, so that’s why we let our clients speak directly to their attorneys on a consistent basis. We have almost thirty years of combined experience helping victims in both Louisiana and southern Mississippi.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Including school buses, minibuses, transit buses, and other forms of buses, there were a total of 1,489 buses involved in vehicle accidents in Louisiana in 2024. Bus drivers and other motorists alike sometimes make dangerous choices on the road that can lead to devastating outcomes. Some common causes include:

• Fatigue. Bus drivers might have to work after not getting enough rest, especially if they are short-staffed. The long hours and tight schedules don’t help either. If a driver isn’t well rested, they can miss hazards on the road or traffic signals that can lead to accidents.
• Poor maintenance. Some transit companies do not spend the resources necessary to routinely check their buses. If brakes fail or tires burst, passengers and others near the bus can get hurt. A lack of maintenance might place the transit company at blame.
• Driver distraction. Careless or distracted driving led to 13.46% of all vehicle accidents in Louisiana in 2024. Any action that pulls a bus driver away from the wheel can lead to a crash. Actions include texting, eating, or talking on the phone. Bus drivers can also become distracted while talking to passengers or responding to their radios.
• Speeding or reckless driving. Bus drivers sometimes feel immense pressure to stay on strict timetables. This can cause them to speed, which is more dangerous due to the length of time it takes for a bus to brake or slow down. Taking turns too quickly or running red lights can lead to accidents, especially if other drivers do not notice the sudden movement.
• Bad weather or road conditions. Weather conditions are unable to be prevented, but drivers do have to adjust to them. Even light rain can lead to slippery roads, making it even harder for a bus to stop suddenly. Fog can make it more difficult for a bus to see other traffic or pedestrians. Even certain intersections or streets known for poor conditions can increase the chance of crashes, especially on dangerous roads in Baton Rouge. These conditions, paired with speeding or other reckless behavior, can lead to liability.

It is possible for multiple situations to apply in a single accident. However, this can be difficult to prove without the help of an attorney.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Most of the time, buses involve lots of different parties. Since the driver is likely driving for employment, their employer could be responsible for the crash. The specific entity varies, but it could involve the city or parish if it was a public transit bus.

If it was a private bus, then that company might also be involved. In some cases, there are multiple other drivers, some of whom might have hit the bus or other vehicles. These drivers can share the blame, too.

Sometimes, bus companies work with maintenance companies to review their buses for defects or replace old parts. If a part of the bus failed, then this could be in the hands of the maintenance company. A faulty product would be an issue for the company that manufactured the part.

One accident can involve multiple different people who are all at fault simultaneously. This can make the claim harder to resolve, which is why a lawyer is so important when trying to recover damages.

FAQs About Bus Accident Law in Baton Rouge,LA

What Should I Do Right After a Bus Accident?

Right after a bus accident, focus on getting medical help. Even if the injuries seem small, a doctor should still examine you. Report the crash to the police and take photos of the scene if you can. Get the details of anyone else who was in the accident. Don’t speak to insurance companies until you’ve spoken to a personal injury lawyer.

Can I File a Claim if I Was a Passenger on the Bus?

You can file a claim if you were a passenger on the bus. Buses have a duty to transport their passengers safely, so if they caused the crash, you could be able to file a claim against them. If another person or driver caused the crash instead, you might want to file a claim against the person at fault. If you don’t know who was at fault for an accident, a lawyer could help you figure this out.

How Is a Bus Accident Claim Different From a Regular Car Accident Claim?

A bus accident claim is different from a regular car accident claim. This is because buses are often public and can follow different rules if they are a government entity. If the bus is run by a private company, the claim could be more complicated because it involves the driver as well as their employer. The time limit you have to file a claim differs depending on who is involved.

What Happens if a Bus Driver Hits Your Car?

If a bus driver hits your car, you might have to file a claim against the company that hired them. This can either be a private company or a public agency that manages the drivers. Usually, a driver who breaks traffic rules is associated with the company. Filing a claim against them can help you recover damages to pay for car repairs and any medical costs you incurred as a result of the accident. Understanding the settlement timeline and process in Louisiana can also help you know what to expect.

Don’t Delay in Filing a Claim

Transit buses were involved in 427 total accidents in Louisiana in 2024. If one of these accidents happens to you, you need to be prepared. Push back against companies and large institutions to receive deserved compensation. Schedule a consultation with The Lucky Law Firm, PLC, to understand what steps you need to take next.