Taking the bus is a popular way to get work in Santa Monica. Thousands of people ride it every day and never meet with an accident because bus companies and operators, by law, have to be diligent and take proper care of their passengers. However, accidents can happen at any time, and unfortunately, they do.
When a bus company puts its passengers in jeopardy and someone gets hurt, they are responsible and can be held accountable for their actions. If you, or a loved one, have been involved in an accident due to the negligence of the bus operators, the first thing you should do is contact a Santa Monica Bus Accident Lawyer, and get the advice you need to take your case forward in the best possible way.
Gathering of Evidence
When you have been in an accident, it is important that you write down and keep records of everything you can, but it is best to contact a lawyer to ensure you have everything you need to present a strong case. He/she will have the experience needed in the various types of bus accidents to know exactly what information you need and be able to direct you in such a way that the process is simple and straightforward.
Areas of Investigation
Examining the driver of the vehicle that was involved in the accident is generally where the investigation starts. His/her history as a bus driver in the company will be scrutinized to determine what his/her role in the accident could have been. The bus company can be held accountable if a driver with a bad record has been hired, or if the driver has been forced to drive for longer than the permitted amount of time a driver is allowed to be on the road.
Maintenance of the bus is another important area of investigation. The law requires a certain level of maintenance, and this requires regular check-ups and repair for each bus on the part of the bus company. If it can be proved the maintenance regulations expected by law were not properly kept up, the company can be held responsible for this major breach of passenger safety.
Your Rights and Compensation
You might be left with an injury that has changed the way you live your life, or you may need medical treatment for a length of time. Whatever your case is, when you are a victim of a bus accident, the law is on your side, and, when you make a clear-cut case, you can receive a fair amount of compensation.
However, when most individuals try to go forward and confront a bus company on their own, they are generally unsuccessful. This is because it takes professional experience and a thorough understanding of the law to confront the insurance company that represents the bus operators. Call a Santa Monica Bus Accident Lawyer to get the help you need to ensure success.