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Colorado Springs Bus Accident Attorneys

Representing Cases of Bus Accident Injuries

Buses come in all shapes and sizes, and they are a common sight in Colorado. Unfortunately, they pose a risk to everyone on the road, including the passengers on the bus. Their large size makes them dangerous to other vehicles, and they lack most of the safety features of other vehicles to protect their passengers.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus collision, it's important to consult with a lawyer right away. Bus accidents normally involve many victims and are more complicated to resolve than other motor vehicle accidents. The legal team at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., has a great deal of experience litigating these complex cases. Call us at (719) 475-2555 to speak to one of our friendly and compassionate Colorado Springs car accident lawyers today.

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Bus Accidents Happen More Often Than You Think

According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), which is overseen by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a bus is defined as any vehicle designed to transport nine or more people at a time, including the driver. This means the accident statistics will also cover large transport vans, minibuses, and more. Over the ten-year period from 2006 to 2016, of the total number of bus accidents that resulted in fatalities in the United States, school buses made up 40%, transit buses accounted for 34%, and intercity buses accounted for 13%.

It's frightening to realize that of all the different types of buses on the road, school buses are the most likely to be involved in a fatal accident.

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Bus Collisions Are More Difficult to Resolve

Because buses are typically commercial vehicles, when you file a claim, you can bet that powerful insurance companies and law firms will be involved as well.

Under Colorado law, school bus drivers must pass a number of requirements to obtain a license. These include the following:

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Annual check on their driving record
  • Pre-service bus training
  • Annual training sessions
  • Annual performance test
  • Annual written test
  • Current first-aid certificate
  • Medical examination

The company or government agency running the bus service has a responsibility to vet its drivers and make sure their exams are current. For example, if a driver is not in good health, it can negatively affect his or her ability to drive safely.

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Bus Accidents Have a Tight Deadline to File a Claim

There is a good chance sovereign immunity will also make it harder for victims to recover compensation after a bus crash. Government agencies, such as public transportation departments, are afforded immunity from most lawsuits. It will either be necessary to prove negligence on the part of the government agency, or to sue the driver as a private individual. Time is also important. C.R.S. § 24-10-106 states that victims only have six months (182 days) to bring a claim against the government.

For private bus lines, such as tour companies or rental companies, accidents can also be difficult to litigate. Large corporations will do everything in their power to limit their liability, and they employ powerful law firms and insurance companies with tremendous resources. You need to have an advocate who understands all of the legal issues involved and has a proven track record of success.

At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., our lawyers aren't afraid to take on these powerful corporate entities. We have the resources necessary to take these cases on a contingency basis, meaning we don't get a dime unless you recover compensation. We're ready to take your case all the way to trial if that's what it takes. Contact us today at (719) 475-2555 to schedule a free consultation.

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Additional Information

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