Bus accidents have a reputation for causing debilitating injuries. These collisions are especially dangerous when they involve smaller passenger vehicles. If you were hurt in a bus crash, a Las Vegas personal injury attorney can investigate the contributing factors and other circumstances of the accident to determine who was liable and help you pursue justice and adequate compensation from the at-fault parties and their insurance companies.
Anyone injured in a crash, from other drivers to bus passengers, could be entitled to compensation if they are not at fault for the accident. However, securing fair compensation from a bus crash can be easier said than done. You can put yourself in the best position for success by reaching out to the Las Vegas bus accident lawyers of Valiente Mott today. Free consultations are available.
What Makes Valiente Mott Different in Bus Accident Claims?
At Valiente Mott, what sets us apart in handling Las Vegas bus accident claims is our unparalleled blend of personalized customer service, legal knowledge, and compassionate approach. When you choose us, you’re not just getting a legal representative; you’re partnering with a team that genuinely cares. Our attorneys, known for their top academic credentials and extensive experience in high-exposure injury cases, are dedicated to fighting for your rights with the utmost integrity and commitment.
We understand the complexities of bus accident claims and navigate them with precision and dedication, aiming to maintain our impressive 99% success rate. Our firm’s culture is rooted in being accessible to our clients at all times, ensuring you have the support you need throughout your case. Our approach is marked by our honesty in setting realistic expectations with you while still being dedicated to a comprehensive handling of every aspect in your claim.
With Valiente Mott, you are choosing a firm that has earned the trust and admiration of clients and peers alike, as shown by our numerous 5-star reviews and strong referrals.
Who is Liable for Bus Accidents?
Before you receive damages for your bus accident injuries, it is necessary to identify who was at fault. Your personal injury claim hinges on whether or not you establish another individual or entity was responsible for the crash. Our bus accident attorney in Las Vegas can help identify the at-fault party. Some common examples include:
- Bus drivers. Commercial bus drivers are frequently responsible for these accidents. Bus drivers are not immune to mistakes, and even minor lapses in judgment could cause serious accidents.
- Bus companies. The owner of the bus could be financially liable if the bus driver caused a crash while they were within the scope of their employment. A bus company could also be on the hook if they were negligent in hiring drivers or maintaining the bus.
- Government entities. Some buses are owned by the government, who could be on the hook for damages after a crash. The government could also be to blame if dangerous road conditions led to an accident.
- Manufacturers. The makers of commercial buses or bus parts also could be liable for your injuries. Defective buses could leave the manufacturer liable if the defect causes a crash.
Identifying the liable party in a bus accident is a vital part of the process. A bus accident lawyer in Las Vegas could help you identify the cause of your crash.
Las Vegas Common Carrier Laws
Under NRS 706.361, buses are classified as common carriers, which places them under a heightened legal obligation compared to regular vehicles. As common carriers, bus operators and companies in Nevada are required to adhere to a higher standard of care and vigilance. This heightened duty mandates that they must take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers. This includes maintaining the bus in a safe working condition, ensuring that drivers are properly trained and adhere to all safety regulations, and being particularly cautious in their driving practices.
If a bus operator or company fails to meet these stringent standards and an accident occurs, they can be held liable for any resulting harm to passengers. This aspect of the law is crucial as it provides a basis for legal action against bus companies and operators in cases where their negligence or failure to provide the requisite level of care leads to passenger injuries or fatalities.
Bus Driver Laws in Las Vegas
In Las Vegas, bus drivers are subject to specific traffic laws that cater to the unique nature of operating a large passenger vehicle (NRS Title 43, Chapter 484B). One pertinent law is NRS 484B.353, which requires bus drivers to use designated bus stops for passenger boarding and alighting, ensuring the safety of passengers and not impeding traffic flow. Another important law is NRS 484B.700, which outlines the requirement for school bus drivers to display flashing lights and extend stop signs when loading or unloading children, a critical measure for child safety in school zones and residential areas. These laws are tailored to the unique aspects of bus operation, focusing on passenger safety and the interaction of buses with other road users. Violations of these bus-specific laws can be considered evidence of negligence in the event of an accident, potentially leading to liability for the bus driver or the bus company. These regulations underscore the heightened duty of care required from bus drivers due to their role in public transportation and the larger implications of their driving practices on road safety.
Recovering Financial Compensation
When you work with a Las Vegas car accident attorney, you could recover financial compensation for your bus accident injuries. Damages that might be attained in your case include:
- Lost wages
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Medical bills
- Diminished future earnings
- Property damage
Statute of Limitations in Las Vegas Bus Accidents
In Las Vegas, the statute of limitations (as defined in NRS 11.190), is a critical legal timeframe for individuals seeking to file personal injury claims resulting from bus accidents. This law specifies that legal actions for personal injury must be initiated within two (2) years from the date of the accident. This two-year window dictates the urgency with which victims must act to seek legal redress. Failing to file a lawsuit within this period generally results in the loss of the right to seek compensation for injuries sustained in the accident. This law underscores the importance of promptly consulting with a legal professional following a bus accident to ensure that all rights to compensation are preserved and legal actions are taken in a timely manner.
Call Our Las Vegas Bus Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
You do not have to carry the financial burden of surviving a bus accident. If you were hurt in a bus crash in Las Vegas, the Las Vegas bus accident lawyers at Valiente Mott is ready to help you fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Our attorneys understand your case is important, and are ready to work tirelessly to get you the outcome you deserve. Reach out for a free consultation today to get started.
