Bus Accident Attorneys in Dayton, OH know that bus accidents can be complicated for a number of reasons, not least of which is that the bus driver might be a government employee and has some unique liability protections. That doesn’t mean bus companies, or any public mass transit vehicle operator or agency, are entirely immune from the consequences of their negligence. At the Buckeye Law Group, located in Dayton, Ohio, we are experienced in these types of cases and won’t shy away from pursuing the damages you’re owed if you’ve been injured in a bus accident.
While bus accidents and injuries are relatively rare due to professional drivers, stringent safety regulations, and the sturdy build of buses, they can still occur and be severe when they do. Despite a lack of safety equipment such as seatbelts, the design of buses often provides some protection to passengers during an accident. Bus Accident Attorneys in Dayton, OH understand that those same protections aren’t available for people outside the bus, including drivers and passengers sharing the road, people waiting at bus stops, and bus passengers who are embarking or disembarking. In many instances, the bus driver or operator is still liable for these injuries.
An experienced personal injury attorney who understands the complexities in these cases may be able to help you take the fast actions necessary to recover compensation.
Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex. Potentially liable parties might include the bus driver, the bus management company, the bus manufacturer, or other negligent drivers. The particular circumstances of the accident will largely dictate who may be held accountable. Bus Accident Attorneys in Dayton, OH have the expertise to investigate these cases thoroughly and identify the responsible parties.
Filing claims against public bus operators can be challenging due to certain protections and immunities they may have under Ohio state law. These entities are often subject to different rules than private companies, making it crucial to work with an attorney well-versed in this area of the law.
In Dayton, the Dayton RTA (Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority) operates bus and trolley service in Dayton and the surrounding communities. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is responsible for overseeing transportation infrastructure throughout the state of Ohio, including providing local support for transit agencies like the Dayton RTA.
RTAs in Ohio, are technically public transit agencies and government entities. It’s overseen by a Board of Trustees appointed by the City of Dayton and the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. In Ohio, state and local governmental entities have immunity from certain types of lawsuits under the Ohio Political Subdivision Tort Liability Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2744).
This immunity is not absolute and there are several exceptions where political subdivisions can be held liable:
These are the types of negligent actions (including bus accidents) that result in serious injuries for people in Dayton. If you’ve been injured by the actions of a Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority employee, you may be able to seek damages.
If you’re filing a claim against a mass transit agency, it’s important to know that these cases often involve strict deadlines and procedural rules. Failing to follow these can result in losing your right to compensation. With the Buckeye Law Group, you will have a team experienced in handling the complexities of such cases. Bus Accident Attorneys in Dayton, OH are ready to guide you through the process to help secure the compensation you deserve.
Seek immediate medical attention if necessary, report the incident to the bus operator and document the scene and your injuries as much as possible. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney before speaking to insurance adjusters or representatives of the bus company.
The general statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Ohio is two years from the date of the accident. However, claims against public or government entities often require notice of the claim to be filed within a much shorter period. People in Dayton who were injured in a bus accident are best served by speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible. We can help ensure you don’t miss any filing deadlines.
Navigating the aftermath of a bus accident can be daunting. At the Buckeye Law Group, we stand ready to guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at 1-800-411-PAIN for a free consultation.