We Go The Extra Distance For Our Clients
Auto Practice Areas
Atlanta Bus Accident Lawyer
The Atlanta bus accident lawyer team at Ashenden & Associates helps injured parties recover compensation for bus accident injuries through personal injury claims. We have decades of experience handling bus accident cases and have helped countless bus accident victims secure fair settlements from at-fault parties and their insurance companies.
If you sustained serious injuries as a passenger, driving another vehicle, riding a bike, or standing at the bus stop, our experienced bus accident lawyers in Atlanta can provide experienced legal representation to help you pursue compensation and justice.
Our personal injury law firm handles bus accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means clients don’t owe any legal fees unless your Atlanta bus accident attorney secures a fair settlement or jury award on your behalf.
Call 770-394-8909 to schedule a free legal consultation with a skilled bus accident attorney in Atlanta, GA.
Common Bus Accident Claims in Atlanta, GA
Below are some of the most common types of bus accidents that our Atlanta bus accident lawyer team handles.
Atlanta MARTA Bus Accidents
MARTA bus accidents in Atlanta fall under sovereign immunity laws, meaning personal injury claims against the MARTA bus company have different rules than those involving private bus companies. If you were hurt in a MARTA bus accident, you must file a notice of claim within six months of the crash before you can file a lawsuit.
Unlike standard bus accident claims, lawsuits against government entities require specific procedural steps, including submitting a formal notice detailing the accident, bodily injuries, and financial losses. Failure to follow these rules can bar you from recovering compensation. MARTA bus crash victims may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, but damage caps may apply. A skilled Atlanta MARTA bus accident lawyer can ensure you meet the strict legal requirements to secure fair compensation.
Hijacked Bus Atlanta
Bus hijackings in Atlanta are rare but are some of the most severe bus accidents for passengers and drivers alike. If a hijacked bus causes other motor vehicle accidents, determining liability can be complicated. Depending on the circumstances, MARTA, a private company, or a negligent security provider may be held liable for failing to prevent foreseeable risks.
Georgia law allows victims to pursue bus accident claims against transit companies or security firms if they fail to take reasonable steps to protect passengers. If the hijacker was a known threat, a bus company may be liable for negligent security. Bus accident victims should consult with an experienced Sandy Springs and Atlanta negligent security lawyer through a free consultation.
Atlanta School Bus Crash
School bus accidents in Atlanta can result in serious injuries for children, pedestrians, and drivers in other vehicles. When a school bus accident occurs, determining liability is critical. Public school buses are typically owned by school districts or government entities, which means special legal procedures apply when filing a claim.
Under Georgia’s sovereign immunity laws, parents must file a notice of claim within 12 months of the accident before pursuing legal action against a public school district. This notice must include details about the accident, bodily injuries, and financial losses. Failing to meet this deadline can bar victims from recovering compensation.
If a private bus company operates the bus, injury claims follow standard Georgia laws for personal injury cases, meaning bus crash victims can file directly against the company and its insurance company.
School bus drivers must follow state and federal safety regulations, including mandatory background checks, drug and alcohol screenings, and specialized training. If a bus driver’s negligence causes an accident, they and their employer may be held liable. Additionally, if faulty bus maintenance, defective brakes, or poor road conditions contributed to a severe bus accident, multiple parties may share responsibility.
When a child sustains severe injuries, a parent or legal guardian may file a claim on their behalf. In wrongful death cases, parents or the child’s estate may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.
The lasting emotional impact of a school bus accident on a child should not be overlooked. Parents should seek legal guidance to ensure their children can seek medical attention and receive the psychological support and financial compensation they deserve.
Contact an Atlanta school bus accident lawyer at our personal injury law firm for a free consultation to learn more.
Shuttle Bus Accidents at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport
Many airport shuttle buses in Atlanta are operated by private bus companies, which means insurance policies and liability vary. Shuttle bus accident victims must determine whether the airport authority, a private shuttle bus operator, or drivers in other vehicles involved are responsible. Additionally, airport zones often have strict traffic regulations, which can impact liability assessments. Injured passengers, pedestrians, or bus drivers involved in an airport shuttle bus accident may seek to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages through bus accident claims.
Contact our shuttle bus accident attorneys in Atlanta, GA, for a free consultation.
College Bus Accidents
College bus accidents in Atlanta often involve students, faculty, and visitors traveling between campus buildings, dorms, and off-campus locations. Universities, private bus companies, and transportation contractors are often bus operators for daily transit and sports teams traveling for games. When a bus accident happens due to a negligent bus driver, improper maintenance, or other motor vehicle accidents, bus accident victims may not fully understand their legal rights or the claims process.
Under Georgia law, injured victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, if a public university operates the bus, this may impose sovereign immunity laws, shortening the timeframe to six months for a notice of intent. Parents of minors can pursue claims for their children.
Filing a bus accident claim can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies, city bus regulations, and various companies. An Atlanta bus accident attorney can seek compensation, negotiate with insurance companies, and help victims meet strict deadlines to recover damages. A free legal consultation ensures that college students and their families understand their rights after serious accidents.
Bus Accidents in Atlanta Construction Zones
Atlanta’s frequent construction projects create hazardous road conditions, making bus accidents in construction zones common. Liability may involve multiple parties, including the city, construction contractors, or a negligent bus driver. Georgia law requires work zone safety measures, and failure to comply may result in legal liability. An Atlanta and Sandy Springs construction site accident lawyer can help victims determine liability and recover compensation.
Atlanta Charter Bus Accidents
Charter buses are typically operated by private companies, meaning higher insurance limits may apply. However, charter bus operators must follow federal and state safety regulations, including driver hours-of-service limits and maintenance requirements. If a charter bus accident happens due to bus driver fatigue, mechanical failure, or poor training, victims can file claims against the charter company, driver, or other negligent parties. Bus accidents may include medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact a skilled bus accident attorney in Atlanta for a free consultation to learn more.
Atlanta Tour Bus Accidents
Tour buses often transport large groups of passengers, meaning a tour bus accident can cause severe injuries that are widespread. Liability in these bus accident cases may rest with the private company, tour bus operator, or maintenance provider. Georgia law requires tour bus providers to carry significant insurance coverage, but securing a fair settlement may require legal action. Call our bus accident lawyers in Atlanta for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Bus Hits Pedestrian Cases
If a bus strikes a pedestrian in Atlanta, liability depends on fault. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning victims may recover damages even if partially at fault for car accidents as long as they are less than 50% responsible. Insurance companies often dispute pedestrian injury claims, so securing legal representation can be critical. Contact an Atlanta and Sandy Springs pedestrian accident lawyer today.
Bus Hits Cyclist Cases
Cyclists involved in bus accidents may suffer severe injuries. Determining fault requires analyzing traffic laws, bus surveillance footage, and accident reports. Cyclists injured by a bus driver may seek damages through insurance claims or lawsuits against them personally. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian in a bus accident, contact our Atlanta and Sandy Springs bike accident lawyers for a free consultation.
Greyhound Bus Accidents
Greyhound accidents differ from other bus or car accidents due to federal oversight on bus routes and corporate insurance company policies for any bus involved in a collision. Filing a claim against Greyhound or other major carriers requires navigating complex legal issues, including multi-state jurisdiction and corporate liability. Our experienced bus accident lawyers in Atlanta and Sandy Springs can help ensure victims receive fair settlements through skilled negotiations with major insurance companies.
Drunk Driving Bus Accidents
If a bus driver operates under the influence, their employer may be held liable for failing to conduct proper background checks or routine drug testing. Bus passengers or those who have been hit by a drunk driver in Atlanta or Sandy Springs may file claims against the driver, company, or other responsible parties.
If you need to file a DUI lawsuit in Atlanta or Sandy Springs, Georgia’s personal injury laws allow for punitive damages in drunk driving car accident cases, which may increase the bus accident settlement values for victims. After you seek medical attention, contact our Atlanta and Sandy Springs DUI accident lawyers for a free case evaluation.
Atlanta Church Bus Crash
Church bus accidents in Atlanta often involve congregation members, youth groups, and volunteers traveling to retreats, events, or mission trips. When a bus accident happens due to a negligent bus driver, inadequate maintenance, or overloaded vehicles, victims may suffer severe injuries or even death. Liability may fall on the company, private bus operators, or church organization. A skilled bus accident attorney in Atlanta can help victims and their families pursue compensation for medical treatment costs, lost income, and other financial losses while handling insurance claims and legal complexities.
Fatal Bus Accidents
Fatal bus accidents in the Atlanta area leave families devastated, facing funeral expenses, medical bills, and financial hardship. When bus accidents happen as a result of negligence, reckless driving, or mechanical failure, families may file a wrongful death claim against the company, driver, or other liable parties. In Georgia, immediate family members can seek compensation for lost income, emotional suffering, and other damages. A fatal car accident lawyer in Sandy Springs or Atlanta can help families navigate insurance claims, legal deadlines, and wrongful death lawsuits to secure justice for their loved ones.
Common Bus Accident Injuries
The following are some of the most common bus accident injuries the Atlanta bus accident lawyer group from our law firm sees:
- Soft tissue injuries
- Contusions
- Lacerations
- Broken bones
- Amputations
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Organ damage and internal injuries
- Head and brain injuries
- Fatalities
How an Atlanta Bus Crash Lawyer Can Help
An Atlanta bus accident lawyer can provide crucial legal support for victims suffering serious injuries in a bus accident case. Navigating bus accident litigation requires experience in handling claims against bus companies, insurance companies, and other vehicles involved.
Your personal injury lawyer will investigate the accident scene, collect evidence such as bus routes and surveillance footage, and build a strong bus accident case to secure maximum compensation. Whether filing a personal injury claim or negotiating with insurance companies, an experienced Atlanta bus accident attorney and legal team ensures victims receive fair settlements for medical costs, lost income, and other financial losses. If you or a loved one was injured in an Atlanta bus accident, it is essential to seek medical attention and consult a law firm experienced in handling complex public transportation cases.
Contact an Atlanta bus accident lawyer from our law firm for a free initial consultation to explore your legal options.
Who Is Held Liable After Bus Accidents Happen?
Bus Driver: This party is liable if their negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, or violating traffic laws, causes a motor vehicle accident. If they are under the influence or fatigued, they may be held personally responsible.
Bus Company: This party can be liable if they fail to properly train drivers, enforce safety regulations, or conduct routine inspections.
Drivers of Other Vehicles: If another driver’s reckless actions, such as running a red light or following too closely, cause a crash, they may be held responsible for damages.
Privately Owned Bus Owners: Private bus owners, including charter bus groups and tour operators, may be responsible if they neglect maintenance, hire unqualified drivers, or fail to comply with safety regulations.
School District: A school district can be held accountable if they fail to properly screen, train, or supervise their drivers. Claims against public school districts must follow strict government filing deadlines.
Maintenance Contractors: If a third-party maintenance company fails to properly inspect, repair, or maintain the bus, resulting in brake failure or mechanical defects, they may be held responsible for any resulting accidents.
Government Entities: Government agencies responsible for city transportation (such as MARTA in Atlanta) may be liable for accidents caused by poor road conditions, inadequate training, or hiring unsafe drivers, but sovereign immunity laws can limit claims.
Compensation for Bus Accident Victims in Atlanta, GA
Personal injury victims may seek financial compensation for various damages in a bus accident claim. These damages typically include medical expenses, property damage, lost pay from work, and other financial losses related to the collision. These accidents can result in severe injuries and even death. While compensation cannot undo the harm, victim’s ability to recover compensation can help them move forward by alleviating the financial burdens they face.
Bus Accident Lawsuit Loans: Atlanta
A bus accident lawsuit loan is a type of pre-settlement funding that provides financial assistance to bus accident victims while they await their bus accident claim settlement. These loans help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses that result from bus accident injuries. Victims involved in serious accidents may struggle with expenses while pursuing fair compensation.
Unlike traditional loans, these loans are non-recourse, meaning victims only repay if they win compensation in their personal injury case. Our Atlanta bus accident attorney team works with funding companies to help injured clients secure financial support while their case is pending. These loans can be useful for those facing delayed settlements due to negotiations with insurance companies, complex legal proceedings, or disputes over liability.
Atlanta Bus Crash FAQs
Our Atlanta bus accident lawyer team answers frequently asked questions below.
What Happens If a Bus Hits Your Car in Atlanta?
If a bus hits your car in Georgia, liability depends on who was at fault. You may file a claim against the bus driver’s insurance or the bus company’s liability policy. If the bus is city-operated, claims must follow specific government deadlines. Document the accident scene, obtain a police report, and seek medical attention to support your bus accident case for compensation.
What Happens If a School Bus Hits Your Car in Atlanta?
If a school bus hits your car in Atlanta, you must determine if it’s operated by a public school district or a private company. Public school bus accident cases involve government immunity laws and must be filed within six months of the accident. If a private school bus accident occurred, you may file a claim against the bus driver’s or bus company’s insurance for medical bills and vehicle damage.
What Happens If a City Bus Hits Your Car in Atlanta?
If a city bus hits your car in Atlanta, you may file a claim against MARTA or the city’s public transit liability insurance. Because government agencies have sovereign immunity, you have a limited time to file a claim—often just six months. Document the accident, gather witness statements, and consult a bus accident attorney to navigate legal requirements for seeking compensation for injuries and property damage.
Do Bus Drivers Get Fired for Accidents in Atlanta?
Bus drivers may be fired for accidents depending on the severity and cause. If the driver was intoxicated, distracted, or violated traffic laws, they may lose their commercial driver’s license (CDL) and be terminated.
What is the Average Settlement for Bus Accidents in Atlanta?
The average bus accident settlement in Atlanta depends on injuries, lost income, and fault. Minor accidents may settle for less, while severe bus accident settlements are typically higher. If a government-operated bus is involved, settlements are subject to liability caps.
Atlanta Bus Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Atlanta bus accident, whether involving a public or private accident, legal help is available. An experienced Atlanta bus accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our law firm has experienced Sandy Springs bus accident lawyers, Fulton County bus accident lawyers, DeKalb County bus accident lawyers, Clayton County bus accident lawyers, and East Point bus accident lawyers who are ready to take on personal injury cases throughout the area.
Call 770-394-8909 or fill out our online contact form today for a free initial consultation to discuss your personal injury case.
