Being involved in a bus accident can instantly turn your life upside down. Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward, The Thumbs Up Guys, are here to help. We’ve helped many South Carolinians secure the compensation they deserve after devastating bus accidents.
Our North Charleston bus accident lawyers are ready to hear your story. Whether you were a passenger, a bus driver, or another person harmed in the crash, our attorneys will work to get you results that matter. We’ve won millions for our clients.
We offer free case reviews and work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win. Let us show you why so many North Charleston residents have trusted us to handle their bus accident claims. Contact our North Charleston personal injury lawyers now, or keep reading to learn more about how we can help.
Why You Need a Bus Accident Lawyer in North Charleston
The insurance companies involved in bus accident claims often try to minimize payouts or deny responsibility. Our experienced legal team on your side levels the playing field and prevents insurers from taking advantage of you.
We handle all communication with insurance adjusters and opposing counsel, protecting you from making statements that could harm your case. This lets you focus on your recovery while we manage the legal side of your claim.
Time-sensitive evidence can disappear quickly after a bus accident while you’re recovering. When you work with us, we can begin preserving crucial evidence and building your case for maximum compensation before the evidence vanishes for good.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Driver fatigue remains one of the leading causes of bus accidents. Despite strict regulations on driving hours, some bus companies push their drivers beyond safe limits, putting everyone on the road at risk.
Inadequate maintenance is another frequent factor in bus accidents. When companies cut corners on vehicle upkeep or ignore warning signs of mechanical problems, catastrophic failures can occur during operation.
Poor weather conditions, distracted driving, and improper training also contribute to many bus accidents. We will investigate the cause of the accident to ensure every responsible party is held accountable for your injuries.
What Makes Bus Accidents Different From Car Crashes?
Bus accidents differ significantly from typical car crashes due to their size, passenger capacity, and multiple liable parties. When you’re injured in a bus accident, multiple entities could be responsible. There may be more people to blame besides the driver, such as their employer.
Bus accidents can also have many victims, making these cases challenging when everyone fights for compensation. Our team understands the specific regulations governing both public and private bus operators in North Charleston and how to maximize victim compensation.
Furthermore, due to the weight of these vehicles, the chances of catastrophic injury rise. While buses have safety features, if the bus rolls over, you will likely face life-changing injuries. You’ll need an experienced bus accident lawyer in North Charleston to help you get the necessary resources.
Special Considerations for Government-Run Bus Accidents
Claims against government-run bus services like CARTA or school districts have strict filing deadlines and notice requirements. In South Carolina, you must file a notice of claim within one year, much shorter than the standard three-year statute of limitations.
These cases often involve sovereign immunity laws that can limit your compensation. Getting an attorney who understands these regulations is crucial for preserving your right to recover damages.
Our team has experience handling claims against government entities in North Charleston, but you must act quickly to start your case before your chance to file a notice of claim expires.
Evidence Collection in Bus Accident Cases
Bus accidents require extensive evidence collection to build a strong case. We gather video footage from traffic cameras, bus surveillance systems, and nearby businesses to show exactly what happened during the crash.
Driver logs and maintenance records can reveal violations of safety regulations or neglected repairs. These documents often prove crucial in establishing negligence by the bus company or maintenance contractors.
We also interview witnesses, passengers, and first responders while memories are fresh. Our team can also work with accident reconstruction specialists to analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and other physical evidence that could strengthen your claim and explain what happened.
Insurance Complications in Bus Accident Claims
Bus accidents often involve multiple insurance policies, including the bus company’s commercial policy, personal insurance of other involved drivers, and government insurance pools for public transit vehicles. We identify all possible coverage sources.
Many bus companies carry minimum insurance that may not fully cover catastrophic injuries involving multiple victims. We explore additional coverage options like excess liability policies or claims against other responsible parties in these cases.
Our experienced team knows how to counter the tactics of insurance companies and will negotiate effectively to maximize your compensation.
No Upfront Costs
At Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward, our lawyers believe everyone deserves quality legal representation after a bus accident, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay us unless we win your case.
There are no hidden fees or surprise charges when you choose The Thumbs Up Guys. We cover all the costs of investigating and building your case, including hiring expert witnesses and gathering evidence.
Our free case review allows you to discuss your situation with our team and understand your legal options without any financial obligation. We only get paid when we secure compensation for you.
Contact Our North Charleston Bus Accident Lawyers Today
Don’t face your situation alone if you’ve been injured in a bus accident. The Thumbs Up Guys at Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Contact our North Charleston bus accident attorneys for a free case review. Let us use our proven track record of success to help you get results that matter.