Commercial and public bus services provide much-needed transportation to thousands of people across Ohio every day. While most of these vehicles complete their routes without any problems, there are also instances where negligence by bus drivers, their employers, or another third party leads to devastating collisions. Crashes involving public transportation often result in substantial injuries and losses.
Filing suit over an accident involving a “common carrier” can be uniquely complex depending on the circumstances, so it is important to work with a seasoned personal injury attorney for the best chances of a favorable case result. A knowledgeable Dayton bus accident lawyer at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy will explain the relevant laws and work tirelessly on your behalf to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Bus Crashes in Dayton
Like any other type of motor vehicle crash, bus collisions can occur due to various factors. A bus driver who violates traffic laws or drives while intoxicated can cause a collision or even a multiple-vehicle pileup. Starting, stopping, or turning the bus without warning before a passenger is safely seated could also result in injuries .
Other wrecks may stem from faulty mechanical components, reckless driving by other motorists, or even interference from bus passengers. Regardless of the specific cause of a bus-related accident, a person injured as a result may have legal options for pursuing restitution. If an injured victim and their local attorney can prove that one or more involved parties were legally negligent, they can demand compensation for their losses stemming from the bus crash.
Recoverable Damages in Common Carrier Accident Claims
With help from a Dayton bus accident attorney, a victim could potentially recover for economic and non-economic forms of harm such as:
- Past and future medical care costs
- Lost earnings and/or earning capacity
- Personal property damage, including vehicle repair/replacement costs
- Physical pain from injuries
- Emotional and psychological anguish
- Lost enjoyment of life due to long-term or permanent disability
However, if a plaintiff is found partially responsible for causing or worsening their own injuries, it could lead to a proportional reduction in their final damage award as per Ohio Revised Code §2315.33. As such, it is crucial for bus accident victims to work with an experienced Dayton attorney who can argue against any allegations of partial fault.
Special Rules for Claims Against Government Entities
Bus accident litigation can be especially complicated if the at-fault party was an employee or agency of a local or state government. This is because state law establishes immunity to civil liability for government entities in certain situations. While O.R.C. §2743.02 expressly waives this immunity for agencies and employees of Ohio’s governments, O.R.C. §2743.03 establishes that an injured party may only file suit against a government entity if they have a “special relationship” with said entity as defined in that section of state law.
Bus accidents involving municipally operated buses usually meet the criteria for this “special relationship,” but additional rules apply in this kind of situation. Guidance from a dedicated lawyer at our firm is crucial to successfully navigate these and other possible restrictions on civil recovery after a bus crash in Dayton.
Talk to a Dayton Bus Accident Attorney Today
Even if you believe you have a strong case for civil recovery, there are numerous ways in which Ohio state law may limit your legal right to compensation following a bus accident. Fortunately, help from seasoned legal counsel can make a world of difference in how effectively you can pursue your claim.
A Dayton personal injury lawyer at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy will explain your legal options during a confidential consultation. Schedule yours by calling today.
