Every day, people take buses to commute, including residents of the state of Connecticut. For some, it's a part of their daily routine, so given the amount of buses on the road, bus accidents in CT are inevitable.
In October of 2023, two people were hospitalized after a school bus was involved in a multi-vehicle accident in Haddam, CT. This happens more often than you think, and has the potential of victims suffering serious injuries. It's important to know what legal options you have if you are or a loved one is injured. Those injured in bus accidents can file a claim for compensation, but against who? Liability in CT bus accidents will be explained further in the following article.
Determining fault is important if you decide to file a bus accident lawsuit. It's likely you can recover compensation if someone is found to be negligent in the accident and you were injured. It might be challenging to determine liability in certain situations, but with the help of an experienced CT bus accident lawyer, you can file a successful claim.
The law firm of Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney At Law can provide the legal support you need to obtain the compensation you deserve. We will examine the details of your case to determine who is liable for your injuries.
Determining Liability in a CT Bus Accident
Compared to auto accidents, bus accidents may include multiple parties and be much more complex. Driver error, bus maintenance, or a manufacturing defect, among other factors can cause accidents. If you are unaware of the potential causes of bus accidents, it can be hard to determine who is at fault or if you have a case. A legal consultation can be helpful, as a lawyer will help you build and develop your case.
An experienced lawyer will gather all the evidence needed to support your case, from accident reports and witness statements to photos of the scene and traffic footage. An investigation into the accident may sometimes show that more than one party is responsible.
When a bus accident occurs, the person who owns and operates the bus is typically liable in the accident. The law mandates that all bus operators must drive their bus safely, so bus drivers usually undergo thorough background checks before being hired, while the bus company is responsible for things like vehicle upkeep and providing roadside driving safety instruction to its drivers.
When a bus driver fails to uphold this duty of care, the company may be liable. Similarly, a bus driver can be liable if they drove the bus carelessly.
Comparative Negligence In A CT Bus Accident
Because Connecticut follows comparative negligence laws, damages may be awarded to the plaintiff even if they are at fault too. If a plaintiff who suffered injuries is found to be 10% at fault for the accident and is awarded $10,000 in damages, the plaintiff actually receives $9,000 of that award. A sum is paid by the defendants according to their individual percentage of fault. The plaintiff will not be entitled to any compensation if they are found to be more than 50% in fault.
Bus Company Liability
As mentioned, the owner of the bus company may hold responsibility in some situations. A lawyer can help you determine who may be at fault.
Privately Owned Bus Company
Lawsuits may be a bit more simple when the bus is owned by a private company. You could potentially file a lawsuit against the bus driver, the bus company, and manufacturer of parts used on the bus. This is all dependent on the specifics of the accident. This is a discussion to have with your lawyer, as they will help you determine whom they may file a lawsuit against.
The court may determine a percentage of fault if you are suing multiple parties.
City or Government Owned Bus Company
In the event that the bus is owned by a government agency, such as a school bus, submitting a claim and establishing liability can be more challenging. In some situations, sovereign immunity may apply. Government workers are offered some protection by sovereign immunity, and in other cases, you might not even be allowed to file a lawsuit at all.
Prior to filing a lawsuit, you should speak with a CT bus accident lawyer to learn about your options. There may be limitations and or strict time limits to bring forth a claim.
Our Connecticut Bus Accident Lawyers Can Assist You
It might be challenging to determine liability in a CT bus accident. But, the team at Brandon J. Broderick can help. We have assisted accident victims just like you for decades and our track record speaks for itself.
Our CT bus accident attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.