(864) 582-0416 Getting into any kind of motor vehicle accident can be the most traumatic thing you’ll ever experience. While a crash with another car can have severe consequences, a collision with a bus can be even worse. The difference in size means the smaller car may not stand up to the force of the impact, and the effects on the car driver and any passengers could be serious.
If you’ve been hit by a bus or were a passenger during the crash, a personal injury attorney can help you seek compensation for your injuries. Collisions involving a bus have unique challenges, and a Spartanburg bus accident lawyer at Holland & Usry can provide you with the guidance and support you need. Call us for a free* case review.
Driving is a privilege, which is why the state grants driver’s licenses and can revoke them if rules are repeatedly violated. To obtain a license, drivers must demonstrate the skill and awareness necessary for safe vehicle operation.
Similar to other drivers, bus operators are required to obtain a license and demonstrate their capability to operate the vehicle safely. Navigating a bus demands a considerably greater level of skill and attentiveness compared to driving a typical car. Due to its larger size and weight, a bus is more challenging to control. Additionally, the vehicle’s length results in extended blind spots, necessitating that the driver remains vigilant of anyone near the sides of the bus.
Buses have a unique role in the community as a means of mass transportation, so bus drivers have a greater responsibility to drive safely around pedestrians and other vehicles. Sadly, most bus accidents are caused by driver error or unsafe driving, such as:
Injured passengers or drivers could be eligible to recover compensation to cover the costs of medical treatment, lost wages, emotional trauma, pain and suffering and more. If you’ve been hurt in a bus collision in Spartanburg, discuss your case with an attorney. They can help you understand your options and what to expect when filing a claim.
The Spartanburg Area Regional Transit Agency (SPARTA), a government agency, owns and operates most of the buses in the region. This is the biggest challenge when it comes to filing a claim after a bus accident.
As a government agency, sovereign immunity could limit claims against SPARTA. This legal concept says government entities are generally immune from lawsuits. South Carolina, though, waives this immunity for personal injury claims under South Carolina Code § 15-78-50. Despite this waiver, there are still some limitations.
For example, victims must file a car crash claim within the statute of limitations, which is typically three years after the accident. But for a bus crash claim against SPARTA, that time limit is two years. In addition, there could be a cap on the amount of damages that a victim could collect in a claim. While there are challenges, pursuing a claim for damages after a bus crash in Spartanburg is possible, and a skilled lawyer can help.
If you’ve been hurt in a bus collision—either as the driver in another car or a passenger—talk about your case with a Spartanburg bus accident lawyer. Holland & Usry can explain your legal options and support you through this difficult time.
You likely have many questions, and we’re here to provide answers. Call Holland & Usry to schedule a free* case review with an attorney.
