Accidents involving large vehicles like buses have the potential to cause severe injury, and pursuing an injury claim can be an overwhelming and confusing process. Bus accident cases often involve more than one potential at-fault party, including bus companies, bus drivers, drivers of other vehicles, and numerous insurance companies.
The well-practiced personal injury attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, have been helping people injured in bus accidents for over 100 combined years. Our Litchfield bus accident lawyer understands the nuances of complex cases involving city buses, school buses, and private bus companies. You don’t have to figure out your bus accident claim alone; we can help you identify the at-fault party and hold them responsible for the harm they’ve caused.
Identifying the at-fault party after a bus accident is one of the first steps your attorney should take when preparing to file your claim. Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means fault plays an important role in compensation after an accident. Determining fault after a bus accident is a complex process that varies depending on numerous factors, including what type of bus was involved in the accident.
If your accident involved a city or public transit bus, there may be an added challenge in seeking compensation – dealing with government entities. If the city or other government body is the liable party, it can be especially difficult to recover damages for a bus accident because government entities in Connecticut have immunity in some situations. You may also have different deadlines for filing a claim or providing notice in cases involving government-operated buses versus privately owned buses.
As with other accidents, liability in school bus accidents is based on whether the bus driver, school system, or a third party caused the accident. School bus drivers have the same duty of care as carriers of passengers for hire, which is a higher duty than many other drivers, but pursuing an injury claim or lawsuit involving a school bus requires an in-depth understanding of the many relevant and complex laws. Public schools in Connecticut have a certain amount of immunity from lawsuits, so consulting with an attorney is recommended, especially if you suspect the school system is at fault.
Private bus companies may be liable for accidents involving their vehicles and drivers, but that is not always the case. Your attorney can help you determine whether the bus driver, bus company, or manufacturer may be responsible for the accident that caused your injuries. An experienced Litchfield bus accident attorney can also help you:
D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, is dedicated to helping clients navigate challenging legal claims involving city buses, school buses, and privately owned buses. Our experience, skill, and compassion make a difference for every client, propelling their cases forward and getting them closer to recovery. Contact us today to schedule your free in-person or virtual consultation with a Litchfield bus accident lawyer.
