Philadelphia Bus Accident Attorney

Schedule a Free Consultation With an Experienced Philadelphia Bus Accident Lawyer

A bus accident can result in devastating injuries to passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers. The generally large size of buses makes them difficult to avoid or maneuver around after an initial impact. Oftentimes, a bus involved in an accident can block the roadway, causing traffic to come to a stop. This situation can be dangerous and lead to additional rear-end or side-swept collisions.

At Quinn Injury Lawyers, our Philadelphia bus accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of filing a case against the liable party, protect your rights, and make sure that you receive the compensation you need. We are here to be your voice and your advocate. Contact us at our Philadelphia office today for a free consultation with a top Pennsylvania bus accident lawyer.

BUS ACCIDENTS CAN CAUSE DEVASTATING INJURIES

If you sustained an injury in a Philadelphia bus accident, you may require hospitalization or long-term medical treatment. All bus accident injuries should be immediately evaluated, diagnosed, and treated by a qualified physician. It is imperative that bus accident victims get the care and attention that they deserve. Notably, you cannot bring a bus accident injury claim in Pennsylvania without supporting medical records. Unfortunately, your injuries and damage to your property can cause unexpected financial hardship as you may be unable to work for an extended period of time, your continued treatment may cause medical bills to pile up quickly, and you could be facing long-term rehabilitation costs. Our firm helps injured victims get justice and the financial support they need. Some common bus accident injuries that we see include: 

• Whiplash and other soft tissue damage 
• Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments
• Fractured or broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)s)
• Internal organ damage
• Amputations
• Spinal cord damage
• Wrongful death

WE HANDLE ALL TYPES OF BUS ACCIDENT INJURY CLAIMS

Quinn Injury Lawyers is a full-service law firm committed to being your voice and your advocate. If you sustained an injury in a Philadelphia bus accident, contact us today for a free, no-obligation initial consultation. We are prepared to help you file a personal injury claim. Our legal team handles all types of bus accident injury cases in Philadelphia and throughout the surrounding region in Southeastern Pennsylvania. We are prepared to gather evidence and build a case to prove liability so that you are in the best position to maximize your financial recovery. Whether the driver’s negligence caused your injuries by speeding, driving under the influence or texting and talking on the phone or the bus company supervisors failed to properly hire, train, and monitor their drivers, our firm can help. Along with other types of bus accident claims, our Philadelphia attorneys handle:  

• Private Bus Accidents: Hurt in any type of private commuter bus accident? We can help. These accidents involve buses operated by private companies, such as tour services, interstate charter bus operators, and local shuttle services. Accidents may result from negligence, such as improper maintenance, driver error, or failure to comply with safety regulations. We represent passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. 
• Public Bus Accidents: Our firm handles the full range of public bus accidents. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates a large public bus line in Philadelphia and throughout the surrounding communities. It is the sixth-largest regional transportation network in the entire country. Hurt in a SEPTA bus accident? Contact our Philadelphia legal team today for a free, no-obligation review of your case. 
• School Bus Accidents: When you put your children on a school bus, you have the fair and reasonable expectation that they will be kept safe. Unfortunately, school bus accidents remain a safety issue. We are committed to protecting the rights of children and their families. If your kid was hurt in a school bus accident, please do not hesitate to contact our Philadelphia law office today for a free consultation. 
• Pedestrian/Bus Collisions: A bus can weigh 20,000 to 30,000 pounds. Given their large size and relatively frequent stops, buses pose a heightened risk to pedestrians. These accidents often happen at crosswalks, bus stops, or while navigating city streets. Our firm fights for the rights of pedestrians injured in these collisions. Contact our Philadelphia bus accident lawyer today for help with your pedestrian injury claim.
• Non-Passenger Injuries: Were you involved in a crash with a bus with the driver or passenger of another vehicle? We can help. People in other vehicles involved in collisions with buses face significant risks due to the size and weight disparity. We represent drivers and passengers of other vehicles. It is our mission to help you get justice, accountability, and the greatest possible financial compensation. 
• Fall Accidents On a Bus: Not all bus injuries happen in traffic collisions. In some cases, passenger falls on buses can result in devastating injuries. Falls can occur when boarding, disembarking, or during the ride due to sudden stops, sharp turns, or slippery conditions. We help victims of falls on buses recover damages for their injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

• Assaults on a Bus: Under Pennsylvania law, a bus operator—public or private—has a basic responsibility to provide adequate security to its passengers. Unfortunately, assaults can happen on buses due to inadequate security, poor lighting, or lack of surveillance. If you or your loved one was assaulted on a bus, our Philadelphia attorneys are ready to help you get justice.

Regulating Commercial Vehicles vs. Passenger Vehicles 

A bus accident injury claim is different from other personal injury claims because public policy dictates that large vehicles should be more closely regulated than smaller vehicles to ensure road safety. Most states have enacted trucking laws that impose stricter driving standards on anyone behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle, such as a bus or truck. 

Larger vehicles can inflict more damage in an accident because of their size, so legislation around commercial vehicles largely focuses on limiting their speed and restricting work hours for drivers. The laws can also be harsher on commercial drivers who engage in dangerous or negligent behavior while behind the wheel, such as texting or using a cell phone. 

The differences in the regulations between commercial vehicles and personal vehicles can make filing a claim feel more complicated for people who are not well versed in legal representation. 

Anatomy of a Bus Accident Injury Claim

Bus accident injury claims are one of the most complex injury cases. These cases require special investigative techniques to ascertain the cause of the accident, and they often require an understanding of both federal and state laws affecting public transportation, which can vary from city to city or state to state. 

To begin the claims process, you need to determine who is responsible for your injuries. Several parties can be considered liable in a bus accident, including: 

• The bus company
• The driver
• A governmental agency that may have been involved in maintaining or regulating the roadway where the accident occurred

You should also determine if anyone besides the bus driver might have contributed to your injuries, including a third party like the bus manufacturer or another vehicle involved in the accident. If you were a pedestrian at the time of your accident, for example, you would need to identify who was negligent in maintaining or repairing the roadway where the accident occurred. Vehicle maintenance records will need to be obtained and reviewed for all of these parties. 

Do not go it alone. Every bus accident in Southeast Pennsylvania requires a prompt, comprehensive investigation by an experienced Philadelphia attorney. An experienced Philadelphia Bus Accident Attorney can assist you with this process. The capable attorneys at Quinn Injury Lawyers have extensive knowledge and a firm understanding of Pennsylvania’s bus laws and can help guide you in your claims process.

Bus Accident Liability Laws

Bus operators may feel forced to ignore traffic regulations to adhere to strict timetables and pick-up schedules, driving recklessly or at unsafe speeds while overwhelmed with multiple tasks. Although most bus drivers exercise safe practices, their demanding work schedules can lead to situational stress, resulting in poor judgment while behind the wheel.

A typical personal injury case involving a commercial vehicle is based on negligence. For negligence law to apply, the defendant driver must have failed to take proper care during the accident — which may include speeding, distracted driving, fatigued/drowsy, etc. However, many states impose strict regulations on large vehicles that make it easier for injured parties to prove liability in court, even if their lawyers cannot explicitly prove the driver was engaging in negligent behavior. 

In some cases, both parties can be found liable for one accident — this is called comparative negligence. In most jurisdictions where comparative negligence is applied, a plaintiff’s damages will be reduced by their degree of fault. In this instance, it is possible that an injured party who is partially responsible for causing an accident can recover nothing from the defendant.

Bus Accidents Legal Ramifications

Laws governing bus accidents vary by state. Generally, the commercial vehicle operator is subject to stricter driving standards than the average driver in a passenger vehicle. Most laws regulating commercial vehicles are directed toward bus drivers — including school buses, city transportation services, and tour buses. Under most circumstances, if you are involved in an accident with an improperly regulated bus, there may be several liable parties who will be responsible for your compensation.

As a general rule, if the bus driver acted negligently and was responsible for causing your injuries, you can recover damages from the driver through a personal injury lawsuit. However, strict regulations on commercial vehicles can reduce the liability of any negligent parties.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT BUS ACCIDENT LIABILITY LAWS IN PENNSYLVANIA

Hurt in a bus accident in Philadelphia? Your claim will generally fall under state law. Here are key points to understand about bus accident liability in Pennsylvania: 

• Pennsylvania is a Choice No-Fault State: ennsylvania’s unique insurance system allows drivers to choose between “no-fault” and “traditional” insurance coverage. In a no-fault system, your insurance company pays for your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. However, this choice limits your ability to sue the at-fault driver unless your injuries meet certain criteria (serious injury). This system applies to bus accidents as well. Our Philadelphia bus accident lawyer can help you navigate the law. 
• Comparative Fault Rules Could Impact Your Claim: Under Pennsylvania law (42 P.S. § 7102), a modified comparative negligence rule is used to determine liability in fault-based motor vehicle accident claims, including bus accident cases. If you are partially at fault for a bus accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20 percent at fault for a bus accident in Philadelphia, your financial compensation will be reduced by corresponding 20 percent. 
• Two-Year Statute of Limitations (But Less Time for Public Bus Accidents): Under Pennsylvania law (42 P.S. § 5524), victims of bus accidents generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault parties. Do not wait too long to take legal action. You could miss out on your right to bring a claim at all. The standard statute of limitations applies to private bus accident cases. However, an even shorter deadline may apply to public bus accident claims. 

SPECIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR PUBLIC BUS ACCIDENT CLAIMS

Were you hurt in a crash as a passenger on a SEPTA bus? If so, it is crucial that you understand that unique rules and regulations apply to your case. Government agencies are presumed to have sovereign immunity. In effect, this means that they cannot be sued. However, Pennsylvania law (Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act) allows injured victims to bring a lawsuit against the responsible government agency. It creates a path to justice for SEPTA bus accident victims, including passengers, pedestrians, and the occupants of other vehicles. 

SEPTA bus accident victims should know that they have less time to start their claim. The Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act requires injured victims file a type of legal document called a notice of claim within six months of the accident. If they fail to do so, they may be denied an opportunity to seek justice and compensation. Of course, this is a  much shorter deadline than the standard two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Pennsylvania. The expedited timeline highlights the importance of consulting with a SEPTA bus accident lawyer as soon as possible.  

INJURED BUS ACCIDENT VICTIMS DESERVE FULL AND FAIR FINANCIAL COMPENSATION

Hurt in a bus accident? Pennsylvania law allows victims and families to seek financial compensation for the full extent of their damages, including both economic losses and intangible losses. Sadly, bus operators and their insurance carriers fight hard to pay out as little as they can in personal injury claims. They will not willingly offer you the full and proper financial compensation that you deserve. At Quinn Injury Lawyers, our Philadelphia bus accident lawyers go above and beyond to help our clients maximize their settlement or verdict. You may be entitled to recover compensation for: 

• Property damage, including losses such as vehicle repairs. 
• Ambulance costs and other emergency medical expenses. 
• Hospital bills and other healthcare costs.
• Prescription medication and medical devices.
• Physical therapy and rehabilitative support.
• Lost wages and diminishment of earning power.
• Pain and suffering & mental anguish. 
• Long-term disability and physical impairment.
• Wrongful death of a family member. 

BUS ACCIDENTS IN PHILADELPHIA: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

Is a Bus Company Automatically Liable for an Accident?

No, a bus company is not automatically liable for an accident in Philadelphia. Legal liability always depends on the circumstances leading to the accident. For this reason, every bus accident should be thoroughly investigated by an experienced attorney. 

Can You Seek Compensation for a SEPTA Bus Accident?

Yes. Injured victims can seek compensation for a SEPTA bus accident in Philadelphia. You may be entitled to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, claims against SEPTA, a public transportation authority, have specialized procedural requirements. 

Are SEPTA Bus Injury Cases Different from Private Bus Accident Claims?

Yes, SEPTA bus injury cases are different from private bus accident claims. Claims against SEPTA are subject to specific notice requirements. You generally need to submit a proper notice of claim within six months of the date of the incident. 

When Should I Consult With a Bus Accident Lawyer in Philadelphia?

You should consult with a bus accident lawyer in Philadelphia as soon as possible after the accident. An attorney can help navigate the complex legal landscape, ensure compliance with critical deadlines, and maximize your compensation. Set up a free consultation as soon as possible. 

Should I Agree to Settle My Bus Accident Injury Claim?

It depends. While most claims are resolved through a settlement rather than a verdict. you should not agree to settle your bus accident injury claim without consulting a Philadelphia attorney. Your lawyer can help you determine the value of your case and negotiate for the maximum settlement.

Why Hire Quinn Injury Lawyers

Navigating the aftermath of a bus accident is never easy. Do not rely on a private bus company, government agency, or any insurance company to look out for your best interests. You need a top-tier attorney on your side. Our founder and lead attorney Sean Quinn is a nationally-recognized trial lawyer and a strong advocate for victims and families. He is not your typical attorney. Instead, Attorney Quinn fights tirelessly for the justice that is rightfully yours. We are ready to cut through the legalese and get to the heart of your case. Our team is proactive and we will fight alongside you for justice and the compensation you are due every step of the way. When you contact us at our Philadelphia office, you will connect with a Pennsylvania bus accident attorney who can: 

• Listen to your story and answer questions about your rights/legal options.
• Investigate your bus accident—gathering the evidence needed to prove fault. 
• Advocate for your best interests in settlement negotiations with insurers.
• Develop a comprehensive strategy focused on maximizing your financial compensation.  

A one-size-fits-all approach to legal representation is not good enough for bus accident claims. We are committed to providing personalized and results-driven guidance. With testimonials from former clients and a well-documented record of recent case results, you can count on our Philadelphia bus accident lawyers to invest the time, resources, and attention to the small details to handle your claim the right way. We are your voice and your advocate during even the most challenging of times. 

YOU CAN ALWAYS AFFORD TO HIRE OUR TOP-TIER PHILADELPHIA BUS ACCIDENT LAWYER

Following a bus accident, the last thing you need to worry about is paying another bill. At Quinn Injury Lawyers, we represent victims and families on a contingency fee basis. That means that our clients do not pay upfront costs, hourly bills, or out-of-pocket fees. Instead, we only get paid when we get paid. Our interests are fully aligned with your interests and we will take on all of the financial risks associated with pursuing a claim. Initial consultations are free, completely confidential, and carry absolutely no obligations. Our top-tier Philadelphia bus accident lawyers are ready to get started on your personal injury claim right away. 

CONTACT OUR PHILADELPHIA BUS ACCIDENT ATTORNEY FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW

At Quinn Injury Lawyers, our Philadelphia bus accident lawyers are skilled, experienced, and reliable advocates for injured victims. We are here to protect your rights when you need legal support the most. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with our Philadelphia bus accident attorney. We will help you understand your legal rights and guide you in taking the next steps in the claims process. From our law office in Philadelphia, we handle bus accident injury claims throughout all of Southeastern Pennsylvania.

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