Bus Accident Attorneys in Las Vegas

Bus Accident Attorney in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a heavily populated tourist city, and is crowded with several different types of buses, including tour buses and school buses for residents that live there. Unfortunately, bus accidents are common in congested cities like Las Vegas.

Bus accidents remain a very serious problem for the city of Las Vegas. Bus accidents usually result in very severe and catastrophic injuries because of their size and their weight. 

According to the Nevada Department of Transportation, there are around 500 bus accidents in the state every year. With every passing year, these numbers constantly go up. From 500 bus accidents, there are around 200 injuries that result, and around 5 fatalities. Bus accidents are a serious problem for Las Vegas, Nevada.

There are several different uses for buses in Las Vegas, including:

Public transportation: many residents of Las Vegas use buses to get to and from work. Tourist also use buses to go from one hotel to another in the event that rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft are unavailable or expensive.

Shuttles: many hotels in Las Vegas now have private bus shuttles that take passengers from one hotel to another.

Group buses: there are several different types of bus activities, such as bar hopping in Las Vegas.

Types of Vehicles Involved in Bus Accident in Las Vegas

Bus accidents can involve a variety of vehicles, each posing unique risks to passengers and other road users. In Las Vegas, the following types of vehicles are commonly involved in such incidents:

Tour Buses Accident

Tour buses are popular in Las Vegas, transporting visitors to various attractions. However, their large size and frequent stops can lead to accidents if drivers are not vigilant.

Limousines Accident

Limousines offer luxury transportation for special events, but when involved in an accident, the consequences can be severe. Proper maintenance and responsible driving are crucial for these vehicles.

Shuttles Accident

Shuttle buses provide essential services between hotels, airports, and attractions. Due to their frequent pickups and drop-offs, they are often involved in accidents, particularly in busy areas.

Vans

Vans, often used for group travel, can also be involved in bus accidents. Whether they are transporting employees or families, their size can lead to significant damage in a collision.

School Buses

School buses are vital for transporting children to and from school. When accidents occur involving these vehicles, the safety of young passengers is a primary concern.

City Buses

City buses serve a critical role in public transportation. However, their interaction with other vehicles in urban settings can sometimes lead to accidents, especially during rush hour.

Company Buses

Company buses are used to transport employees to work sites. If a driver’s negligence causes an accident, the company may be held liable for injuries sustained.

Legal Implications of Bus Accidents

Regardless of the type of vehicle involved, if the bus driver was negligent and caused the accident, you may have a valid claim for your injuries. Understanding your rights is essential, especially in a city as bustling as Las Vegas.

FAQs About Bus Accidents in Las Vegas

Q: What should I do if I’m involved in a bus accident?
A: Ensure everyone is safe, call emergency services, and gather evidence, such as photos and witness statements.

Q: Can I claim compensation for injuries from a bus accident?
A: Yes, if negligence is proven, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses and other damages.sed the accident, you may have a claim for your injuries.

When Should I File My Bus Accident Claim in Las Vegas?

If you’ve been involved in a Metro or bus accident in Las Vegas, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Delaying your claim can jeopardize your right to pursue legal action against the responsible party. To ensure you maintain your legal options, it’s important to understand the specific time frames involved.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

In Nevada, the statute of limitations stipulates that you have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim against the at-fault party. Missing this deadline significantly reduces your chances of recovering any compensation for your injuries or damages.

Are There Extensions Available?

Yes, there are circumstances under which you may receive a time limit extension. For instance, minors who are injured before turning 18 may be granted additional time to file their claims. It’s essential to consult with a legal expert to understand your specific situation and any possible extensions.

The Importance of Timely Action

Filing your claim promptly not only preserves your legal rights but also strengthens your case. Evidence can degrade over time, and witnesses may forget critical details. The sooner you initiate the claims process, the better your chances of building a strong case.

Legal Requirements for Bus Operators

It’s important to note that bus drivers in Las Vegas must possess a commercial driver’s license and receive training that complies with the standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Additionally, bus companies are required to maintain a minimum liability insurance coverage of $5 million to address potential damages from accidents, which includes both property damage and bodily injury.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I do immediately after a bus accident?
A: Ensure your safety and seek medical attention if necessary. Document the scene, gather witness information, and report the accident to the authorities.

Q: How can I find legal assistance for my bus accident claim?
A: Consider reaching out to personal injury lawyers who specialize in bus accidents. They can guide you through the legal process and help maximize your compensation.

Understanding Bus Accident Laws in Nevada

When it comes to bus accidents in Nevada, the law holds the responsible parties accountable for compensating injured victims. Under Nevada’s legal framework, if you are injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation if the other party is found to be at fault.

Comparative Negligence in Nevada

One important aspect of Nevada’s bus accident laws is the principle of comparative negligence. According to the Nevada Revised Statute 41.141, if the injured victim is found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, they will be unable to recover any compensation. This means that the degree of negligence on both sides can significantly impact the outcome of a claim.

What Should You Do If You’re Involved in a Bus Accident?

1. Seek Medical Attention: Always prioritize your health and safety.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos and gather witness information.
3. Contact an Attorney: Understanding your legal rights is crucial.

Why You Need Legal Representation

Determining fault in a bus accident can be complex, often involving multiple parties and various factors. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the intricacies of your case and identify any potential defenses the at-fault party may raise against your claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What kind of compensation can I receive after a bus accident?
A: Victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Nevada, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident.

How do you prove a bus accident claim in Las Vegas?

Usually, bus accidents fall under negligence laws of Nevada. This is proven by showing that:

• The defendants had a duty to the plaintiff
• The defendant breach that duty when they failed to act in a reasonably safe manner
• The defendant’s breach of duty caused plaintiff to suffer injuries
• The plaintiff now has damages

Common Causes For Las Vegas Bus Accidents

Bus accidents happen because of a variety of reasons. The most common causes for bus accidents in Las Vegas include:

• Speeding
• Driver error
• Poor weather conditions 
• Negligent third-party drivers
• Third-party pedestrians 
• Negligent maintenance of the bus
• Slip and falls on the bus
• Negligent seating arrangements
• Defective bus component
• When the driver fails to follow speed signs
• When the bus is overly packed
• When the bus does not have a proper wheelchair section
• Poor road conditions

Why are bus accidents so dangerous?

Although accidents involving cars are more common, bus accidents are often more damaging. Several factors contribute to the severity of bus accidents.

• Size: Buses often weigh tons and their mass, combined with momentum can produce disastrous results explaining why injuries from bus accidents are often more severe.
• Design: Most passenger vehicles are equipped with restraints that act as a safeguard in the event of a collision. However, buses are designed to transport people while standing or seated in seats without safety belts. The lack of restraint leaves bus passengers more vulnerable to severe injuries when an accident occurs.
• Shape: Buses are designed to offer roomier space for passengers, making them top-heavy. The downside of this is that it makes them more likely to roll over if involved in an accident.

Who could be held responsible in my Las Vegas bus accident lawsuit?

Similar to other traffic accidents, bus accidents can result from a moment of recklessness or negligence. To get the compensation you deserve for your injuries according to the law, you need to know who to hold accountable for the accident. Depending on the particulars of your accident, different parties may be responsible. In Las Vegas bus accidents, there are four parties commonly held accountable. They are;

• Bus drivers – They’re often held accountable for causing an accident if they knowingly commit a traffic violation, driving under the influence of drugs, or driving while distracted. A bus accident lawyer in Las Vegas will help build a case against the driver.
• Other motorists – If more than one vehicle was involved in the accident, the other motorists could be held wholly or partially responsible for your accident.
• Other pedestrians – The bus accident could be caused by a pedestrian who was in the middle of the road. This is especially common on Las Vegas Boulevard where several pedestrians tried to illegally cross the street from one side to another.
• Bus companies – In Las Vegas, bus companies are obligated to ensure their buses are properly maintained. They are also obligated to comply with different government regulations, such as hiring qualified drivers to operate the buses. As such, a bus company can be held liable if the accident results because of their negligence.
• The local government– In some situations, the city can be held liable for a bus accident if it occurred on a road that was either poorly maintained or designed. The local government is responsible for keeping roads safe, and if inadequate signage or a pothole led to the accident, the city might be found partially or fully at fault.

Common Las Vegas Bus Accident Injuries

During a bus accident, the combination of bus design, weight and lack of restraints means that the passengers can sustain serious injuries, including:

• Back sprains
• Whiplash
• Broken or dislocated bones
• Amputation
• Neck injuries
• Soft tissue injuries 
• Cuts 
• Scarring 
• Disfigurement 
• PTSD 
• Depression 
• Head injuries 
• Traumatic brain injury