Bus accidents in Wilmington, Ohio can cause serious injuries and even fatalities to passengers, pedestrians, and drivers of other vehicles involved in the accident. Victims of bus accidents face medical bills, lost wages, and physical and emotional pain and suffering. Kruger & Hodges is a law firm with experience in representing those injured in bus accidents, and we are dedicated to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Ohio Statistics for Bus Accidents
Bus accidents in Ohio are unfortunately common, causing significant injury and property damage each year. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were 1,351 bus crashes in Ohio in 2020, resulting in 523 injuries and 4 fatalities.
It’s important to note that bus accidents can have devastating consequences due to the size and weight of the vehicle. Victims of bus accidents can suffer from a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering injuries such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries. In addition to physical injuries, bus accidents can cause emotional trauma and financial hardships.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, seeking legal representation is important to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. An experienced personal injury attorney can assist you in navigating the legal process and help you obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
What are a Victim’s Rights in a Bus Accident in Wilmington, Oh?
Bus accidents fall under the legal definition of “common carrier” accidents. Common carriers are companies or individuals that transport people or goods for a fee. Buses, taxis, and trains are all examples of common carriers. Common carriers have a higher standard of care owed to their passengers and must take every reasonable precaution to ensure the safety of their passengers. When a bus company fails to meet this standard of care and a passenger is injured, the victim may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Many factors can contribute to bus accidents, including:
Driver error or negligence, such as distracted driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Poor maintenance or defective parts, such as worn brakes or faulty tires.
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice.
Other drivers on the road, such as those who may cut off a bus or follow too closely.
Common Injuries to Accident Victims
Common injuries from bus accidents in Ohio can be severe due to the size and weight of the vehicle involved. Some of the most common injuries sustained by victims of bus accidents include:
Traumatic brain injuries: These are common due to the force of impact during a bus accident, and can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even a minor TBI can have lasting effects on a person’s physical and cognitive abilities.
Spinal cord injuries: Bus accidents can cause serious damage to the spine, leading to paralysis, loss of sensation, and other long-term disabilities. Victims may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation to recover, if possible.
Broken bones: Fractures and breaks are common in bus accidents, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. These injuries can be painful and require lengthy recovery periods.
Internal injuries: The force of a bus accident can cause internal injuries, such as damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels. These injuries can be difficult to detect and require immediate medical attention.
Whiplash: This is a common injury in car and bus accidents, caused by a sudden movement of the head and neck. Whiplash can result in neck pain, headaches, and other symptoms that can last for months or even years.
Psychological trauma: Bus accidents can be traumatic experiences that can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Victims may require counseling or other forms of therapy to cope with the psychological effects of the accident.
Victims of a bus accident need to seek immediate medical attention to ensure that all injuries are properly diagnosed and treated.
Who is Liable in a Bus Accident?
Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible. The bus driver, the bus company, and even the bus manufacturer may all be held liable for injuries sustained in an accident. In some cases, a government entity may be responsible for maintaining the roads where the accident occurred. An experienced bus accident attorney can help determine who is at fault and pursue compensation on behalf of the victim.
Compensation for Bus Accident Victims
Victims of bus accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, including:
Medical bills, including hospitalization, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
Lost wages and future earning potential.
Pain and suffering, including physical and emotional trauma.
Property damage, such as damage to a car involved in the accident.
How Kruger & Hodges Can Help Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Wilmington, Ohio, it’s important to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney. Kruger & Hodges has a team of dedicated attorneys who can help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for your injuries. Our attorneys will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. We will fight for your rights and help you get your deserved compensation.
