Every day, thousands of Pennsylvanians depend on public transit and private commercial bus operators to get around. Buses are a critical means of transportation, but if they aren’t operated in a responsible way, they can be a life-threatening danger to any other vehicle or pedestrian on the roadway. Not every bus driver or busing company takes the appropriate precautions or uses due care to prevent harm to those around them.
If you were injured in a bus crash, you should talk to a seasoned personal injury attorney about filing a lawsuit. These types of cases can be challenging, so it is always best to work with a Hershey bus accident lawyer.
At Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers, we are not afraid to stand up to large bus corporations. For example, Founding Partner Jon Ostroff took on Greyhound Bus Company in a landmark case following a devastating crash on a major interstate in central PA. He recovered $21.3 million in settlements and verdicts on behalf of his clients. Reach out to our firm to learn more about what we can do for you.
Holding Private Bus Companies Liable for an Accident in Hershey
Everyone who drives on public roads in Pennsylvania owes a “duty” to act responsibly. This obligation includes following traffic laws, paying attention to surrounding vehicles and obstacles, and generally making reasonable choices behind the wheel.
Bus drivers have an even greater responsibility than commuter car drivers because they are operating a huge, awkward vehicle and they carry multiple passengers at once for a fee. Consequently, any private bus driver who causes a crash through reckless or careless behavior establishes legal responsibility for them and their employer for any damages they cause to others.
If you get hurt while riding a bus, you can pursue a civil claim and obtain a financial recovery for the full value of your losses. These economic and non-economic damages could include:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost work income, including lost professional opportunities
- Loss of life’s pleasures
- Psychological trauma
An accident attorney can also help you seek damages if you were not a passenger on the bus. If you were driving a car or a pedestrian at the time of the accident, you may still have a strong claim.
Unique Laws for Public Bus Crash Cases
Many buses are owned or operated by a governmental entity. Personal injury claims against government entities are somewhat different than cases against private bus companies. According to the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act, a government entity within the Commonwealth that is not part of the statewide government can only be held liable for up to $500,000 in total losses per accident, regardless of the severity of the consequences.
Additionally, if you intend to sue a government entity for damages, you generally have only six months after the accident to formally and properly notify the relevant entity of your impending claim. A knowledgeable local attorney can help you keep track of the laws pertinent to your bus accident case.
Contact Our Hershey Bus Accident Attorneys Today
When loaded with passengers, buses can be just as heavy as commercial tractor-trailer trucks. Buses can cause a comparable amount of damage in a collision with another car. Unfortunately, pursuing fair financial recovery after a bus accident in, or near, Hershey is difficult without representation from seasoned legal professionals.
A Hershey bus accident lawyer from Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers will be the ally you need to seek the compensation you deserve. Call our office today for a consultation.
