More Tacoma citizens rely on buses to get where they must go daily. However, bus drivers can engage in negligent driving, triggering devastating accidents. You should immediately speak to a skilled bus accident lawyer at Ye Law Firm Injury Attorneys to review your case. You can be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Why Choose Us?
Washington reported 13,400 bus accidents last year, resulting in 171 fatalities. When you or a loved one suffers an injury in a Tacoma bus crash, call Ye Law Firm bus crash attorneys.
Our bus accident lawyers have a strong track record of securing significant settlements and courtroom victories in many bus accident cases. Recognized with prestigious honors, including membership in the National Trial Lawyers' Top 100, they’ve earned the respect of peers and achieved multiple multi-million-dollar outcomes in recent bus crash cases. However, each case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future success. Have our bus accident lawyer review your case, and we will provide an approximate case value.
Conveniently located at 31919 1st Ave S, Suite 104, Federal Way, WA 98003, our Federal Way office shares a building with the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce at the corner of 1st Avenue. South and SW 320th St., offering easy access for Tacoma bus accident clients. Schedule your free consultation today by calling (253) 946-0577.
Compensation In Tacoma Bus Accident Claims
Victims of bus accidents in Tacoma, Washington, may be eligible for substantial compensation to address various losses. Below are the key compensation available:
Medical Expenses
Compensation can cover all medical costs related to the accident, including hospital stays, doctor visits, medications, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation. Seek immediate medical attention and keep detailed records of all expenses to support your claim.
Lost Income
If injuries prevent you from working, you may recover compensation for lost income, including current and future earnings. An attorney can evaluate your claim based on your income, injury severity, and recovery timeline.
Pain and Suffering
Bus accidents can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses these non-economic losses, with the amount depending on the severity of the injury, its impact on daily life, and the duration of suffering.
Property Damage
Accidents such as electronics or other items may damage your vehicle or personal belongings. Compensation can cover the costs of repair or replacement for the affected property.
Mental Anguish
The psychological impact of a bus accident, including anxiety, depression, or trauma, may warrant compensation. This acknowledges the emotional toll on your mental well-being.
Wrongful Death
If a loved one dies in a bus accident, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. This can cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional companionship.
Contact an experienced bus accident attorney at Ye Law Firm in Tacoma to evaluate your case, explain your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. They will guide you through the legal process with knowledge and care.
What Is Your Tacoma Bus Crash Claim Worth?
A bus accident in Tacoma can cause devastating injuries and related losses, so what might your claim be worth? Its value hinges on the following factors:
Severity of Injuries
The severity of your injuries plays a significant role in determining the value of your claim. This includes both the immediate and long-term physical and emotional impact. Buses are large, heavy, and have many passengers, so severe injuries such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage can occur, which generally result in higher settlement amounts.
Medical Expenses
The cost of medical treatments, including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, therapy, and medication, will be factored into the value of your claim. Keeping track of all medical bills and related expenses ensures proper compensation.
Lost Income and Future Earning Potential
If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost earnings. Additionally, if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation or limit your future earning potential, this should also be considered when evaluating your claim.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress experienced as a result of the bus accident. Compensation for pain and suffering varies and typically depends on the severity and duration of the pain and its impact on your daily life.
Your Ye Law Firm bus accident lawyer will review your case for free today to understand its potential value.
Why Do Tacoma Bus Crashes Happen?
Tacoma bus accidents can occur for many of the same reasons as other motor vehicle crashes:
Road Conditions and Human Error Can Play a Role
Bus accidents can happen for various reasons, but road conditions and human error are two common factors. The weather can play a significant role in Tacoma, Washington, where bus accidents often occur. Rainy and foggy weather can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Poorly maintained roads and inadequate signage can also contribute to accidents.
Human error is another common cause of bus accidents. Bus drivers, like all drivers, can make mistakes while driving. They may become distracted, fatigued, or even impaired. Other drivers on the road may also cause judgment errors, leading to bus collisions.
Negligent Maintenance and Mechanical Failures
Negligent maintenance and mechanical failures can also cause bus accidents. Buses require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their safe operation. Negligent maintenance can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions, increasing the risk of accidents. Mechanical failures can occur due to manufacturer defects or failure to repair known issues.
Holding Responsible Parties Accountable
When a bus accident occurs, determining who is at fault is essential. The responsible party may include the bus driver, other drivers on the road, bus companies, or even the bus manufacturer or its components. Establishing liability is vital to ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
An experienced Ye Law Firm bus crash lawyer can help victims manage the legal process and gather evidence to support their claims. They can negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, take the case to court. With their skills, victims can have peace of mind knowing that someone is fighting for their rights and helping them seek justice.
Hazardous intersections where Tacoma bus accidents happen include:
- South 19th Street and Sprague Avenue: This intersection has the longest average red light delay in Tacoma, which can lead to driver frustration and an increased risk of risky maneuvers.
- Sixth Avenue and Sprague Avenue: Noted as the second-longest red light delay intersection, this five-way intersection creates a “nightmare of indecision” for drivers, particularly for right turns. Its complexity increases the risk of collisions.
- Route 509 and Alexander Avenue: There are long wait times for vehicles on Alexander Avenue due to signal prioritization for SR 509.
Common Tacoma Bus Crash Injuries
Any crash can be severe, but bus accidents can trigger catastrophic or fatal injuries for multiple passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. Always have our Tacoma bus accident attorney at Ye Law Firm review your claim at no cost. Potentially serious injuries include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then snapped back, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. This is a common injury in rear-end bus accidents.
- Head Injuries: Bus accidents can lead to various head injuries, ranging from minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can long-term affect a victim's cognitive and physical abilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a bus accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can have life-altering consequences for the victim.
- Broken Bones: The force of a bus accident can easily break bones, especially in vulnerable areas such as the arms, legs, and ribs. Fractures may require surgery, rehabilitation, and lengthy recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: The sudden force of a bus accident can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and require prompt medical attention.
- Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, bus accidents can also cause significant emotional trauma. Survivors may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues.
Fighting The Insurance Company After A Tacoma Bus Accident
After a bus accident, dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting and overwhelming task. Insurance companies are notorious for minimizing settlements and using various tactics to avoid paying fair compensation to victims. This is where a Ye Law Firm bus accident lawyer excels; they are skilled negotiators and know how to handle insurance companies to ensure their clients receive the compensation they are entitled to. Here are several ways an attorney can support you when dealing with insurance companies after a bus crash:
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
An attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the bus accident. They will gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage, to build a strong case. This evidence will be vital in negotiating with the insurance company and proving liability.
Estimating Damages
Calculating the damages suffered in a bus accident is a complex process. An attorney will assess the medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages to determine the fair compensation you should receive. They have the experience to accurately assess the value of your claim and ensure you are not taken advantage of by the insurance company.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies are known for their tactics in trying to settle claims for as little as possible. They may downplay the severity of your injuries or try to shift blame onto you. An attorney will be your advocate and handle all communications with the insurance company. They will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers all your losses.
Filing a Lawsuit, If Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement or denies your claim, an attorney will initiate a lawsuit. They will handle all the legal procedures, including filing the necessary paperwork and representing you in court. Having an attorney by your side increases your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in your case.
Protecting Your Rights
Dealing with the aftermath of a bus crash can be overwhelming, and insurance companies may take advantage of the situation. An attorney will protect your rights throughout the entire legal process. They will follow all legal deadlines, gather evidence to support your claim and manage all legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
What To Do After A Tacoma Bus Accident?
Preserving your health and legal options after a Tacoma bus crash is paramount, so take the following actions immediately:
Report the Accident and Gather Information
The first step after a bus accident in Tacoma is to report the accident to the appropriate authorities. This includes calling the police and filing a report about the accident. Be sure to provide a detailed account of what happened and any injuries you may have sustained.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don't think you have any injuries, seeking medical attention after a bus accident is essential. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can thoroughly evaluate your condition and document any injuries you may have sustained.
Preserve Evidence
Preserving evidence is essential in building a strong case after a bus accident. Take photos of the accident scene, including any damages to the bus and other vehicles involved and any visible injuries or property damage.
Consult With Our Ye Law Firm Bus Crash Lawyer
After a bus accident, consulting with a lawyer from Ye Law Firm who focuses on personal injury cases involving buses is essential. They can evaluate your case, determine liability, and advise you on your legal rights and options. An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. They can also handle all legal aspects of your case, including filing a lawsuit if necessary.
Contact A Tacoma Bus Accident Attorney Now
A bus crash injury can wreck your body, but you have legal choices when a negligent driver causes your injuries. Contact our Tacoma bus accident lawyers at Ye Law Firm for a free consultation at (253) 946-0577.