Liability in Burbank Bus Accident Cases

Buses provide an economic and convenient mode of transportation through the city, as they can effectively carry large groups of people. Companies or government agencies tend to be the primary owners of buses, and it is their responsibility to hire qualified drivers and maintain their fleet of vehicles.

With so many factions involved, determining liability in Burbank bus accident cases could be a complex process, but finding the appropriate party is essential to recovering compensation for any injuries after a crash. If you have been hurt, talk to a seasoned bus crash lawyer about your situation. Our team at Block LLP has years of experience helping injured victims restore their lives after a devastating accident.

Liability of the Drivers

The first parties to consider are the drivers. Buses are large and unwieldy vehicles, so they require a substantially higher level of skill to operate safely. As a result, bus drivers are required to have a special license and complete training courses.

Driver errors are a common cause of bus accidents because it can be very easy to lose control of the vehicle if the operator is not paying attention or not following safe driving practices. If an accident is the result of the bus driver’s error or negligence, then the driver could be held responsible.

Car drivers also have a responsibility to drive safely and avoid collisions with other vehicles on the road, including buses. When a car crashes into a bus, the at-fault car driver could be liable to the bus driver and any passengers on board.

Because bus operators control their vehicles, they are often responsible for causing collisions in Burbank. Of course, sometimes a thorough examination of all the facts and circumstances is needed to know with certainty where liability lies.

Company or Government Liability

Responsibility for a crash could lie with a person or entity that was not near the scene of the accident. The company that owns the bus must perform regular maintenance on its fleet to make sure they are in proper working condition and make any repairs if needed. Failure to do this could cause an important mechanical component to malfunction while the bus is in motion. Similarly, the company has a duty to ensure that it hires qualified drivers and provides adequate training. As a result, the company could be liable for its drivers if they make an error and crash due to their lack of qualifications or experience.

Buses for public transportation are government property, and the agency has the same maintenance and hiring responsibilities as private companies. However, some limitations to government responsibility are important to remember. Government agencies generally have sovereign immunity that shields them and their employees from liability. California makes an exception for personal injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents, but victims must make a claim directly to the agency before taking it to court.

Having an attorney represent you and support your claim could help hold the company or agency accountable for their role in bus crashes in Burbank. A lawyer could prevent them from avoiding accountability and give you a chance to fight back.

Call a Burbank Attorney for Help Finding the Responsible Party in a Bus Crash

Determining liability in Burbank bus accident cases is an important step when claiming compensation, but it could come with challenges. Our team of lawyers at Block LLP could help you find the responsible party for your claim so you can recover the maximum amount you deserve.

If you have been hurt in a bus crash, it is imperative to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Call now to talk to a member of our team.