What to Do if You’re in a Bus Accident
Finding yourself involved in a bus accident, in any capacity, is very similar to being involved in a traditional car accident — it’s stressful, overwhelming, and can be difficult to move forward from. But by being prepared ahead of time, you can make the process a little bit easier and make sure your rights are protected.
Our Baltimore, Maryland auto accident lawyers at Murphy, Falcon & Murphy are here to give you our expertise on the next steps if you are part of a bus accident. While slightly different from traditional auto accidents, it’s still important for everyone on the roads to understand how best to handle the aftermath of these unfortunate events. Learn more about what you should do after a bus accident, and contact our accident injury lawyers for a free consultation if you need help!
What to Do as a Driver Hit By a Bus
Even if Maryland drivers do everything possible to avoid bus accident involvement, it can still occur and be incredibly debilitating. But whether it’s a slight fender bender or an accident that causes severe damage, there are a few essential steps our Baltimore car accident attorneys recommend taking. If you’re facing this daunting experience, follow these tips:
Remember, Safety Comes First
Although it can be difficult and paralyzing to be part of a bus-car accident, it’s important to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. If possible, move your vehicle away from the flow of traffic to prevent further accidents and hazards to other drivers.
Contact the Authorities to File a Report
After the initial shock, remember to call the police and report the accident no matter how small the damage is, even if there appears to be no or minor injuries. Not only does a police report serve as valuable evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings moving forward, but it is also another form of protection to make sure accurate information about the accident is fully documented.
Depending on the severity of the bus accident, one or more parties may need emergency medical attention. If this is the case, call for an ambulance as well.
Document the Scene
Again, no matter the extent of the bus-car accident damage, our Murphy, Falcon & Murphy attorneys recommend documenting as much as possible. Take photos on your phone of the scene, including damages to your vehicle, the bus, and any visible injuries. Collect relevant information such as the bus driver’s name, insurance details, and contact information.
Our auto accident lawyer also recommends exchanging contact and insurance information with the bus driver. Ensure you have their name, phone number, address, driver’s license details, and insurance policy information.
Seek a Precautionary Medical Evaluation
After all the initial documentation and piling report filing is complete, it’s important to take care of yourself. Even if you don’t appear to have injuries, still seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation will document your condition and ensure timely treatment.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible after the incident. Provide them with accurate details, photographs, and any relevant documentation. Our Maryland accident injury lawyers can also help you fully throughout the claim filing process; contact Murphy, Falcon & Murphy to let us help you take the next steps!
What to Do as a Bus Passenger
When you’re riding on public transportation, you expect everything to go over very smoothly. But instead of arriving at your destination on time, the bus you’re riding on may get into some type of auto accident and cause more than just delays. Our auto accident lawyers understand that depending on the nature of the bus accident, passengers can sustain major or minor injuries. If you find yourself in this situation, follow these steps:
Protect Yourself From More Danger
If possible, move away from any immediate danger and seek medical attention if necessary. If the bus you’re riding on is involved in an accident, remain as calm as possible and prioritize your safety. Follow the instructions of the bus driver and any emergency personnel on the scene.
Gather Relevant Information & Evidence
Injuries that result from being a passenger during a bus accident can appear small and non-existent but can manifest later on. This is why it’s critical to gather all relevant information and preserve any evidence. Take photos of the accident scene, including damages to the bus and any visible injuries.
Our Murphy, Falcon & Murphy team also recommends writing down the bus number, the bus company, the driver’s name, and any details about the accident. Remember to also keep any documents related to your bus ride — such as tickets or receipts — as they may serve as important pieces of evidence in your case.
File a Report With the Bus Company
After the initial incident and after cooperating fully with emergency personnel on the scene, be sure to report the bus accident to the company it operates under. Provide them with all necessary details and keep a record of all correspondence you have with the company.
Consult an Auto Accident Lawyer
Seek legal advice from an experienced Maryland auto accident lawyer who can assist you in pursuing a personal injury claim. The right car injury attorneys can provide expert legal guidance, protect your rights, and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
What to Do as a Pedestrian
As you wait to board a bus or as you cross the street, disaster can strike. Pedestrian accidents don’t just include cars and individuals — they can also include buses and individuals. Murphy, Falcon & Murphy in Baltimore can help you stay safe by not only providing tips on how to avoid these incidents, but also by guiding you through what to do if you’re hit by a bus:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health and well-being come first in these emergencies. Seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or ask someone to do so if you are unable to. Even if you believe your injuries are minor or you appear to have none, it is crucial to get a professional evaluation.
Contact the Police
Make sure the bus accident is reported to the local authorities and that they are provided with all the relevant information. It’s also essential to obtain a copy of this police report to have for your own records and to give to your accident injury lawyer.
Gather as Much Evidence as Possible
While medical records can serve as critical pieces of evidence in your bus accident case, they are not the only documents you should have on your side. Get all the relevant information regarding the incident into one place, including:
- The bus driver’s name and contact details
- The bus number and operating company
- The location/street names of the accident
- Witness statements
- Medical bills and receipts
- Photographs of the damage and accident scene
Speak With a Baltimore Personal Injury Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents involving a bus need to be taken seriously. If you need help or are missing any of the critical information listed above, the personal injury lawyers at Murphy, Falcon & Murphy can help. Let us help you explore your options and give you an idea of how to file a claim.
Get More Advice From Accident Injury Lawyers
No matter the role you play in a car accident — a car driver hit by a bus, bus passenger, or pedestrian — understanding the necessary steps to take is crucial for your safety and protecting your rights. By following the appropriate steps outlined in this guide and potentially consulting with an auto accident attorney, you can effectively navigate through the complexities of the aftermath and work towards obtaining the compensation you deserve!
Learn more about how Murphy, Falcon & Murphy in Maryland can help you with our personal injury law and auto accident law expertise. Get in touch with us if you have experienced any of the situations listed in this blog post and view our other posts for more resources.