Santa Ana Bus Accident Attorney

The need for public transit options in metropolitan areas has led to an abundance of public bus services, and Santa Ana is no exception to this. Collisions involving buses can be particularly dangerous, and for those injured in them, it’s important to partner with an experienced bus accident attorney who can help.

Attorney Jeff Fayngor and the rest of the legal team at Attorney Jeff Injury Lawyers are well-versed in these incidents and how to best pursue justice for those hurt in them. Contact us about your bus accident injury and let us take the right first steps for you in pursuing compensation.

Frequent Causes of Bus Accidents

California has had some of the highest bus accident numbers over the last couple of decades. Here are some of the most common causes of these collisions.

Bus driver negligence

Bus driver negligence is unfortunately a common cause of these collisions. Negligence comes in many different forms in these situations, and for bus drivers can include any of the following:

• Texting while driving
• Holding distracting conversations with passengers
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Driving with severe fatigue
• Engaging in road rage antics
• Otherwise neglecting their duty of care

Negligence is also the primary factor in determining fault in bus accidents, and a bus accident lawyer can help you to establish negligence on the part of the bus driver or other party involved.

Bad road conditions

Bad road conditions can also play a part in bus accidents. Slick roads can cause traction issues for buses, resulting in skidding or unexpected difficulties making turns. If debris or other large items are on the road, it can be particularly difficult for buses to navigate around the obstructions.

Mechanical issues

Finally, mechanical issues are also a contributor to bus accidents. Tire blowouts can cause buses to run off of the road or into oncoming traffic, and transmission issues can also wreak havoc when a bus is on the road. Other mechanical issues that may lead to bus accidents include:

• Broken mirrors
• Low tire pressure
• Engine malfunctions
• Brake failure

If any of these issues occur demonstrably as a result of negligence on the part of a bus driver or their employer, it can be part of establishing negligence and fault.

Liability in Bus Accidents

As is the case with other vehicle collisions, liability in a bus accident is determined largely by establishing negligence. If a bus driver (or the company that employs them) is found to have been negligent, they could be liable for both the personal and the property damages caused by the accident.

Common carrier law in California establishes that carriers (in this case bus drivers) must operate safely, especially for the sake of their passengers. This includes providing what is needed for safety, employing as much foresight as possible, and being diligent to drive safely, because even a seemingly small amount of negligence for a common carrier can lead to liability.

It’s also possible that another motorist on the road is responsible. If another driver runs a red light in front of the oncoming bus, for example, they could be charged with negligence and therefore be found at fault. In any given case, a bus accident attorney can help you sort through the situation and evidence to establish the best course of action.

What to Do After a Bus Accident in Santa Ana

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, the first thing to do is to check on your (and then other family members’ or passengers’) health and safety. If you are in critical condition, call 911 or find the help you need to get medical care as soon as possible.

If you are able, the next step is to document as much as you can from the collision scene. Take pictures and notes, and get contact information from the bus driver and any other parties involved.

Finally, contact a bus accident lawyer like one from our team at Attorney Jeff Injury Lawyers. An experienced attorney can help you file your insurance claims, file any necessary legal action, and ultimately recover the bus accident compensation you deserve.

Attorney Jeff Injury Lawyers Is Here To Help

If you’ve been injured or otherwise wronged in a bus accident, don’t hesitate to contact us at Attorney Jeff Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. We’re here to serve you by taking as much off your plate as possible and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

FAQ About Bus Accident Cases