Bus accidents can be devastating, especially when they happen unexpectedly during a routine commute or trip. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver involved in a Spartanburg bus crash, knowing the proper steps to take immediately afterward can make a significant difference in your safety, recovery, and legal rights.
The bus accident attorney at Holland & Usry can help. Our firm has a long history helping accident victims in Spartanburg, and we understand the tactics the insurance companies use to pay accident victims as little as possible.
Before you call, read through this article and learn more about South Carolina bus accidents.
What Are the First Steps to Take After a Bus Accident in Spartanburg?
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Prioritize Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. If you’re injured, call 911 or seek medical help right away—even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries can worsen over time if left untreated. -
Report the Accident
Make sure law enforcement is notified. A police report serves as a critical piece of documentation for insurance claims and potential lawsuits. -
Document the Scene
Take photos of the bus, your injuries, the surrounding area, and any property damage. If possible, gather names and contact information from other passengers or witnesses. -
Preserve Evidence
Keep all receipts for medical care, retain damaged property, and maintain a written record of how your injuries impact your daily life.
Who Might Be Liable in a Spartanburg Bus Crash?
Bus accidents often involve multiple parties, and determining liability can be complex. Possible at-fault parties in a Spartanburg bus crash include:
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The bus driver, if they acted negligently (e.g., distracted driving or running a red light).
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The transit company or governmental entity operating the bus service.
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Maintenance contractors, if a mechanical failure contributed to the accident.
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Other motorists, if their reckless behavior caused the crash.
Some accidents are straightforward. When there’s only one at-fault party, like in a two car crash where one person caused the accident, finding who is liable (or responsible) is easy. When a crash involves a commercial vehicle like a bus, there might be multiple at-fault parties, including companies that are located out-of-state.
When you have a complex accident like a bus accident, we HIGHLY recommend that you seek a free consultation with an attorney at Holland & Usry.
Should I File a Report if I Was a Passenger on a Spartanburg Transit Bus?
Yes, absolutely. Filing an incident report with the bus company or transit authority helps document your involvement in the accident. It also establishes a record that may be important if you choose to pursue a personal injury claim. Be sure to request a copy of the report for your records and avoid making statements that could be used against you later.
What Legal Hurdles Might Come Up in Spartanburg Public Transportation Cases?
When a public transit system like SPARTA (Spartanburg Area Regional Transit Agency) is involved, there may be additional legal challenges, including:
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Shorter Deadlines: Claims against government entities often have stricter and shorter deadlines for notice and filing.
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Sovereign Immunity: Government agencies may have limited liability protections, making it more difficult to sue them.
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Complex Claims Process: Public transportation injury claims may involve specific administrative steps and procedures before you can file a lawsuit.
These factors make it even more important to get legal help as soon as possible.
How Can a Lawyer Help With Your Bus Injury Claim in Spartanburg?
An experienced Spartanburg personal injury lawyer can help you:
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Investigate the accident thoroughly to identify all responsible parties.
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Gather critical evidence like surveillance footage, maintenance logs, and driver records.
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Handle communication and negotiation with insurance companies or government agencies.
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Ensure compliance with all filing requirements and deadlines.
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Advocate for maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
At Holland & Usry, we’re well-versed in the complexities of South Carolina bus accident claims and deeply familiar with Spartanburg’s legal landscape.
Contact Holland & Usry for a FREE Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Spartanburg, don’t navigate the legal process alone. We’re here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule your FREE consultation.
