Bus travel is a daily necessity for many in New Jersey, utilized for commuting, shopping, medical appointments, and even recreational activities. Whether it’s the absence of a personal vehicle, the avoidance of city parking fees, or the comfort of group travel for longer journeys, buses offer a convenient and economical transportation solution. Typically, bus drivers are regarded as cautious and competent, adhering to speed limits and prioritizing passenger safety. However, the reality of potential bus accidents, though often overlooked, can bring unforeseen and tragic consequences.
At Nagel Rice LLP, we understand the impact a bus accident can have on individuals and their families. With a national reputation for excellence in personal injury law, our attorneys provide dependable, compassionate representation for victims of bus accidents. Operating from our offices in Manhattan and Roseland, we are proud of our outstanding record of courtroom successes, having secured over a billion dollars in verdicts and settlements over more than three decades. If you or a loved one has been affected by a bus accident, contact Nagel Rice to ensure your rights to substantial compensation are fully protected.
We Are the Firm to Call When You Have Been in a Bus Accident
Our attorneys are not only knowledgeable and skilled in both negotiation and litigation. We are also acutely aware of the ins and out of the judicial process as it relates to traffic accidents in our state. Once you meet with us for a free initial consultation and become our client, we will take over the following logistic matters:
- Communicating with opposing attorneys and insurance adjusters
- Dealing with New Jersey Transit, if we are suing the state
- Investigating the site of your accident
- Examining police records and medical reports
- Investigating any prior history of negligence on the part of the driver or bus company
- Interviewing witnesses
- Consulting with experts who may testify in court on your behalf
Most important, whatever twists and turns your case takes, our skilled attorneys will be taking care of everything so that you can rest and recover.
Different Types of Buses on New Jersey Roads but Similar Reasons for Accidents
In addition to city buses and school buses, multiple charter buses take passengers to out-of-town casinos, religious retreats, and other venues. Buses used for differing purposes travel at varying speeds and on different types of roads. Accidents can occur on any of these vehicles for a broad range of reasons, including:
Speeding and Other Reckless Driving
Most bus driver positions require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). School bus drivers are vetted rather thoroughly, and most charter bus companies provide on-the-job training to their drivers. Nonetheless, some bus drivers do drive recklessly — speeding, tailgating, changing lanes around curves, etc. — endangering themselves and their passengers.
Distracted Driving
The fact that bus drivers are professionals doesn’t mean they are immune to the common distractions — conversations with passengers or on the phone, texting or checking GPS navigation, eating or drinking. Buses are difficult to navigate under the best of circumstances and it only takes a moment of inattention to cause an accident.
Driver Fatigue
Bus drivers, like other workers who drive for a living, spend long periods of time at the wheel, and can easily become physically exhausted or fatigued. Lack of sufficient rest coupled with the tedium of roadways (especially highways) can dull the senses and slow reaction time.
Drugs and Alcohol Abuse
Bus drivers, tragically, are no less vulnerable than the rest of the population to the dangers of driving while abusing substances. As awful as driving under the influence is, it is made even more horrible when the intoxicated driver is risking the lives of 40 to 80 innocent passengers.
Manufacturing Defects
Bus accidents can also be the result of manufacturing defects or electronic malfunctions. If so, our attorneys are adept at bringing lawsuits against the bus manufacturer or against the bus company for failing to maintain the vehicle properly. If faulty brakes or steering have caused the accident in which you were injured, Nagel Rice will sue the responsible third party on your behalf.
Of course, it is also possible that another driver was partially, or even wholly, at fault for the collision, or that there was debris, uncleared snow, or an animal in the roadway. You can trust Nagel Rice to investigate your case thoroughly and zero in on which party or parties should be held accountable for the harm that has come to you.
Damages We Will Fight to Obtain for You and Your Family
Our bus accident attorneys are all too familiar with the devastation that can result from bus accidents. That’s why we are deeply committed to fighting aggressively to win you the damages you deserve for your serious or even catastrophic injury. Whether you have suffered a fracture, an internal injury, a traumatic brain injury, or an amputation, remember that our attorneys are working tirelessly to get you damages for:
- Medical and rehabilitation costs
- Treatment for PTSD, anxiety or depression
- Lost income (present and future)
- Replacement costs for services you now require (e.g. housekeeping)
- Changes to make your home accessible
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Final medical costs, funeral or memorial expenses (in cases of wrongful death)
Contact Our New Jersey Transit Bus Accident Lawyers
We are well aware that you have been through a traumatic, life-altering experience. Our mission as your attorneys is to bring you financial stability going forward so that you and your family can regain your peace of mind and sense of security. Contact our office today for an initial consultation.
Nagel Rice LLP helps its clients throughout New Jersey, including Roseland, Bergen County, Essex County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Sussex County. We also represent clients in New York throughout Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.