Whether the buses you use most regularly tend to be those operated by the Orange County Transit Authority, school buses, or other privately-operated buses, it will be clear to you that this mode of transport offers a more affordable means of getting around Santa Ana and nearby areas, as well as being more environmentally friendly than each of the passengers driving themselves from A to B. Of course, buses are simply larger road vehicles and, as such, can become involved in accidents and collisions from time to time. While bus accidents are significantly less frequent than car, motorcycle, or other types of traffic accidents, there can be some serious and even fatal injuries inflicted when one does occur.
At the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg, our personal injury lawyers have over three decades of experience in successfully handling cases relating to bus accidents, and all manner of other scenarios. While some bus accidents are, of course, genuine accidents, there are numerous others that happen only due to the negligent or deliberately dangerous actions of another motorist. If this is the case for you, we will ensure you recover the maximum compensation available to you.
Common Injuries Sustained From Santa Ana Bus Accidents
When a bus crashes, the passengers, nearby pedestrians, and other motorists on the same stretch of road are all at risk of injury. As every incident is unique, there is no definitive guide to the injuries sustained in a bus accident, but some of the most common ones we have seen while litigating on behalf of victims like you include:
- Head, neck, and back injuries: These tend to be the most frequently-occurring bus accident injuries. Passengers on board the bus can be particularly susceptible, as the impact can cause their heads to snap backward or forwards suddenly, oftentimes striking the window, seat in front, or handrail. Some of the specific injuries in this category are whiplash, nerve damage, traumatic brain injury, and spinal damage
- Chest injuries: These injuries tend to be inflicted when a seat belt or similar restraint tightens to avoid more severe damage being sustained. Common chest injuries include fractured or broken ribs, collapsed lungs, or internal bleeding
- Emotional injuries: It is important to bear in mind that not all injuries are physical. When you hire a Santa Ana bus accident attorney to handle your case, we will ensure that any emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder, is taken into consideration while pursuing compensation
Who Is Liable After a Santa Ana Bus Accident?
This is the main question that your Santa Ana lawyer will seek to answer definitively while investigating your case. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, liability may lie with the bus driver, another motorist, OCTA themselves, or the manufacturers of a defective vehicle component. As you may imagine, proving liability can become incredibly complex and is best left to a qualified, experienced, legal expert.
To discuss how a Santa Ana bus accident attorney can recover the compensation you deserve, schedule your free initial consultation by calling us today at 310-997-0904.
