Bus Crash & Public Transportation Injury Attorneys in Southlake, Texas
As a bustling suburb of Fort Worth, Southlake is filled with restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and other attractions. And like any growing community, public transportation plays an integral role. People have to get around, and buses run through the city streets daily, taking passengers to shops, dining, and school. Unfortunately, when you have buses moving passengers down crowded city streets accidents are bound to occur. Reach out to a Southlake bus accident lawyer.
It’s common to see buses travel down crowded city streets. Pedestrians, cyclists, and passenger vehicles all pose risks to the bus driver having an accident. However, bus accidents are complex, and statistics may not tell the whole story. It takes an experienced bus accident attorney to uncover the facts and determine severity and liability.
Why Choose Francis Injury for a Southlake Bus Accident Case?
Bus accident claims are not like ordinary car accidents. They frequently involve:
- Multiple injured victims
- Corporate or governmental defendants
- Special insurance rules
- Shortened notice deadlines
When you choose Francis Injury, you receive:
- More than 25 years of serious injury litigation experience
- Board Certified trial lawyer leadership
- Deep experience handling claims against public entities
- Aggressive investigation and evidence preservation
- No upfront fees — you only pay if we win
We prepare every bus accident case as if it will go to trial.
Understanding Bus Accidents in Southlake
Southlake’s growing population, busy roadways, and proximity to Fort Worth and surrounding cities increase the risk of bus-related collisions. Buses frequently operate near:
- Crowded intersections
- School zones
- Pedestrian crossings
- Commercial areas
- Residential neighborhoods
When a bus accident occurs, the injuries are often severe due to the lack of seatbelts, high passenger capacity, and force of impact.
Common Types of Bus Accidents in Southlake
Buses are a vital form of public transportation in Southlake, providing a means of transportation to the masses each day. Unfortunately, buses can suffer from problems that can cause delays, breakdowns, and other issues. Some issues lead to accidents, and unfortunately, injured passengers.
While bus travel is generally considered one of the safest forms of transportation, accidents can and do occur. Here are some of the most common types of accidents and factors that can contribute to them.
- Collisions with Other Vehicles. When a bus is involved in a collision with another vehicle, the result can be catastrophic. Common causes of collisions include drivers failing to yield to the bus, drivers running red lights or stop signs, distracted bus drivers, or drivers impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Rollovers. Bus rollovers are pretty rare, but they can be extremely dangerous. These accidents can occur if the bus driver is going too fast around a curve, if the bus is overcrowded, or if the bus has a mechanical failure, such as a tire blowout.
- Pedestrian Accidents. Bus drivers must take extra care when driving near pedestrians, especially in heavily populated metro areas. Pedestrians in crowded urban settings are often struck by a bus while crossing the street or riding a bicycle. Pedestrian accidents can also occur if the bus driver is distracted or fails to check their blind spots while turning.
- Driver Fatigue. Bus drivers often work long shifts. They can become overworked and fatigued, leading to an increased risk of accidents. A tired driver is less aware of his or her surroundings and can easily cause an accident if not careful.
- Poorly Maintained Buses. Buses are required by the owner/operator to be regularly maintained so they are safe for passengers. Inadequate maintenance on buses can increase the risk of mechanical failure, which can cause accidents.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2021, there were 2,550 total bus crashes, with 1,187 being school buses statewide. Those accidents in Texas caused 931 total injuries and resulted in 21 fatalities. In Southlake, there were 318 total crashes in 2021, with 42 resulting in bodily injuries.
If you have been involved in an accident with a bus, you need professional legal help on your side. Call the Southlake personal injury lawyers at Francis Injury for a free case evaluation. We’ll explain the complexities of these types of accidents and work to get you appropriate compensation for your injuries and damages.
Who is Liable for Bus Accident Injuries?
Bus accidents can be complex, involving multiple vehicles, and determining who is at fault is not an easy task. It’s important to consider the facts of the accident to determine who is liable for the damages. An experienced bus accident attorney can evaluate the facts, interview witnesses, speak to victims, and get a better idea of who is responsible.
The first step an attorney will take is to examine the actions of the bus driver. The bus driver has a duty to drive safely and look after the safety of the passengers. If they fail to do so, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries or damages. Additionally, if the bus driver was operating while impaired, even from prescription medicine, they could be held responsible for the accident.
The other potential party to fault in a bus accident is the bus owner or operator. The operator is responsible for keeping buses in good working order, and they can be held liable if they failed to properly maintain the bus. Additionally, if the bus owner or operator allowed an unqualified driver to operate the bus, they may also be held accountable for any resulting damages.
If the accident was with a school bus, it is possible the city or school district could be held liable for the accident. Unfortunately, school bus accidents are all too common and injuries can be catastrophic. School bus accidents require an elevated level of attention from experienced bus accident attorneys who know how to deal with municipalities.
When Should You Contact a Southlake Bus Accident Lawyer?
You should contact a lawyer immediately if:
- You were injured as a bus passenger
- A bus struck your vehicle
- You were hit as a pedestrian or cyclist
- A child was injured in a school bus accident
- A government entity may be involved
- Insurance companies are delaying or denying your claim
Early legal involvement protects evidence and preserves your rights.
How Francis Injury Handles Bus Accident Cases
Our Southlake bus accident attorneys take swift action by:
- Investigating the crash scene and vehicle data
- Securing surveillance and onboard camera footage
- Reviewing maintenance and driver records
- Identifying all liable parties
- Handling communications with insurers and government entities
- Filing lawsuits when fair settlements are refused
While you focus on recovery, we focus on accountability.
Frequently Asked Question
Do I need a lawyer after a bus accident in Southlake?
Yes. Bus accident claims often involve corporate or government defendants and strict deadlines. An experienced attorney protects your rights and maximizes compensation.
Who is responsible for a bus accident?
Liability may rest with the bus driver, operating company, school district, city, maintenance provider, or another negligent driver.
Are bus accident claims different from car accident cases?
Yes. Bus accidents involve unique regulations, insurance rules, and often government immunity laws.
How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Texas?
Most personal injury claims have a two-year deadline, but claims against government entities may require notice within months.
How much does it cost to hire a bus accident lawyer?
Francis Injury charges no upfront fees. You only pay if we recover compensation.
Contact a Southlake Bus Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured, it’s extremely important to call a bus accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner they can begin working on your case. This will also provide an opportunity to discuss the details of your accident and any potential legal options while fresh on your mind.
An experienced attorney can help investigate the circumstances behind the accident, interview witnesses, and work with the insurance companies to determine who is at fault.
Buses almost always travel on heavily populated streets. Many times, there are multiple vehicles involved, and another party may be at fault. If you’re having difficulty negotiating with the insurance company or are being ignored, our attorneys can help you navigate the complex claim system to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Francis Injury after an accident to get the best legal representation. Fill our online contact form or call today to schedule a free and confidential case consultation. We work with you to evaluate your claim and get you the best outcome for your injuries and damages. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer.
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