Randallstown, MD Bus Accident Lawyer

Bus accidents can be devastating events, often resulting in serious injuries and property damage. There are several forms of negligence that can lead to such accidents. For instance, a crash may occur because of driver error, improper vehicle maintenance, or defective vehicle parts.

Fortunately, in the aftermath of your collision, our legal professionals can help determine who is to blame. Afterwards, we can begin building your case and fighting for the compensation you are owed. We will not rest until justice is served.

Seek support and guidance from our experienced bus accident lawyers by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras today at (410) 694-7291.

Statute of Limitations for Bus Accident Cases in Randallstown, MD

Statutes of limitations are set forth by states to establish deadlines for filing specific types of lawsuits. In Maryland, the time limit to file a personal injury case is governed by Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. Art., § 5-101. Accordingly, you will usually have three years from the date of your bus accident to sue for the injuries you sustained.

Still, even though you may have up to three years to bring your claim to court, you should begin working on your lawsuit as soon as you can. As time goes on, important evidence needed to support your claims may become difficult to gather or preserve. As an example, an eyewitness may forget a detail pertaining to your accident, or a piece of physical evidence may begin to deteriorate. The sooner you get in touch with our bus accident lawyers, the more efficiently we may collect the information we need to win your case.

Common Reasons Why Bus Accidents Happen in Randallstown, MD

There are many possible causes of bus accidents. Still, there are certain sources of crashes that arise more frequently than others. The following are all common reasons why bus accidents happen in Randallstown, MD:

Improper Vehicle Maintenance

Improper vehicle maintenance can lead to mechanical failures that contribute to bus accidents. When crucial components such as brakes, tires, or steering systems are not adequately maintained, they can malfunction, increasing the risk of collisions.

Speeding

Excessive speed is a common cause of bus accidents, reducing the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Speeding buses may have difficulty stopping in time to avoid collisions or navigating curves safely, putting passengers and other road users at risk.

Running Red Lights

Disregarding traffic signals, including running red lights, can result in catastrophic bus accidents. Failure to obey traffic signals not only violates traffic laws but also increases the likelihood of intersection collisions, potentially causing severe injuries or fatalities.

Negligent Hiring Practices

Bus companies that fail to conduct proper background checks or provide adequate training for drivers may hire individuals who are not fit to operate commercial vehicles safely. Negligent hiring practices can result in drivers with poor driving records or insufficient experience, increasing the chances of accidents on the road.

Tailgating

Following other vehicles too closely, known as tailgating, is a dangerous behavior that can lead to rear-end collisions, especially when buses are involved. Tailgating reduces the driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid a collision, often resulting in significant damage and injuries to both the bus occupants and other vehicles involved.

Improper Left Turns

Making improper left turns can lead to collisions with oncoming traffic or pedestrians, causing serious accidents. Bus drivers must exercise caution when turning left, ensuring that they have sufficient visibility and yielding to oncoming vehicles and pedestrians as required by traffic laws.

Illegal Lane Changes

Illegally changing lanes without signaling or checking blind spots can cause accidents, particularly on busy roads or highways. Bus drivers must follow proper procedures for lane changes to avoid side-swipe collisions or forcing other vehicles off the road.

Tired Driving

Fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound judgments, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Bus drivers who operate vehicles while fatigued pose a danger to themselves, their passengers, and others on the road because of their diminished alertness and slower reaction times.

Defective Vehicle Parts

Defects in bus components such as brakes, tires, or steering systems can lead to sudden malfunctions that cause accidents. Manufacturers, distributors, or repair shops may be held liable for accidents caused by defective parts because of their failure to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicles.

Failing to Adjust for Weather Conditions

Ignoring adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog can result in accidents because of reduced visibility and traction. Bus drivers must adapt their driving behavior to accommodate changing weather conditions, including reducing speed and increasing following distances, to prevent accidents caused by weather-related factors.

Road Defects

Poorly maintained roads, potholes, uneven surfaces, or inadequate signage can contribute to bus accidents. Road defects may cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to collisions, especially when traveling at high speeds or in adverse weather conditions.

Bus Accidents Caused by Third-Party Drivers in Randallstown, MD

Some bus accidents may be caused by third-party drivers who fail to adhere to traffic laws or exercise caution around buses. These drivers may engage in reckless behaviors such as distracted driving, aggressive maneuvers, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, leading to collisions with buses.

Additionally, some drivers may not be aware of the unique challenges associated with sharing the road with buses. Motorists must adjust for busses’ larger size, longer stopping distances, and wider turning radius. If not, their actions can contribute to accidents involving buses, causing injuries to passengers and other road users.

The team at our law firm can investigate your accident to determine if it was caused by a third-party driver. If so, then we will explain the proper course of action.

Call Our Attorneys for Assistance with Your Bus Accident Claim in Randallstown, MD

In the aftermath of your crash, get help from our experienced bus accident attorneys at Rice, Murtha & Psoras by calling (410) 694-7291 for a free case evaluation.