Baton Rouge 

Bus Accident Lawyer

Representing Victims of Bus Accidents in Baton Rogue

Being involved in any type of motor vehicle accident is a frightening, often overwhelming experience. Bus accidents tend to be especially devastating due to their capacity for causing massive damage, catastrophic injuries, and even wrongful death.

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we understand the profound impact such incidents have on individuals and families. Our dedicated Baton Rogue bus accident attorneys are here to provide the compassionate and personalized support, guidance, and counsel you need during this difficult time.

For a free initial consultation, contact us today at (225) 209-9943.

Understanding Liability in Bus Accidents

Determining who is responsible for a bus accident is crucial for pursuing compensation. The liable party is the one responsible for victims' damages, including their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

After a bus accident in Baton Rogue, liability may rest with various parties, including:

• The Bus Driver: If the driver's acted negligently, such as by driving while distracted or impaired, and this led to the accident, they can be held accountable.
• The Bus Company: Bus companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers and maintaining their fleet. Failure in these duties can result in liability.
• Maintenance Providers: Third-party companies tasked with bus upkeep must ensure vehicles are in safe operating condition. Negligence in maintenance can lead to accidents.
• Other Motorists: Sometimes, other drivers' reckless actions cause bus accidents, making them partly or entirely liable for resulting damages.
• Government Entities: Poor road conditions or inadequate signage maintained by government bodies can contribute to accidents, potentially implicating these entities.

Each case is unique. Our bus accident attorneys in Baton Rogue thoroughly investigate claims to identify all liable parties and aggressively pursue maximum compensation for our clients. 

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Baton Rouge

Bus accidents can occur due to various factors, including:

• Driver Negligence: Whether it's the bus driver or another motorist, negligent driving behaviors, like texting while driving or driving drunk, frequently lead to accidents. 
• Mechanical Failures: Poor maintenance can cause mechanical issues that may lead to accidents. Bus companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe for operation.
• Poor Road Conditions: Hazardous road conditions, including potholes and debris, can contribute to bus accidents. In some cases, local governments may be held accountable.
• Negligent Hiring: Allowing unqualified or unfit individuals to operate buses can lead to accidents, and bus companies may be liable. 

Understanding the cause is essential for building a strong legal case. By identifying exactly what happened, our Baton Rogue bus accident lawyers can determine who is liable for your damages, including your medical expenses, lost income, lost earning ability, and physical and emotional pain and suffering. 

Steps to Take After a Bus Accident

If you're involved in a bus accident, knowing what to do immediately after, as well as in the days and weeks that follow, matters. Taking the right steps not only protects your health but also preserves your right to pursue legal action. 

If you've been involved in a bus accident, you should: 

• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting a thorough medical evaluation, even if your injuries seem minor. 
• Document the Scene: If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries you have sustained.
• Collect Witness Information: Gather the names and contact information of any witnesses, as their accounts of what happened can be valuable.
• Report the Incident: Notify law enforcement and ensure an official report is filed. Request copies of the accident report. 
• Consult an Experienced Attorney: Reach out to a bus accident lawyer in Baton Rogue who can help you take the next steps. 

Remember, time is of the essence after a bus accident. In Louisiana, you typically have just two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the incident occurred before July 1, 2024, you have just one year to sue for damages. The sooner you speak to an attorney at Clayton, Frugé & Ward, the sooner we can begin building your case and seeking the full, fair recovery you are owed. 

How Our Baton Rouge Bus Accident Lawyers Can Assist You

Getting back on your feet after a bus accident can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. Our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward is here to guide you through the legal process as we advocate for your recovery. 

Our firm is committed to:

• Conducting Comprehensive Investigations: We carefully examine the details of the accident and work with accident reconstructionists to establish liability.
• Handling Communications: Our team manages all interactions with insurance companies and opposing parties so that you don't have to.
• Pursuing Fair Compensation: We strive to secure damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.
• Providing Personalized Support: Our attorneys understand the emotional toll bus accidents have on victims and their families. We provide personal attention and empathetic support.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless we win your case. 

You don't have to face this challenging time alone. Our dedicated bus accident lawyers in Baton Rogue are ready to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and guide you toward the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We're here to help you take the next steps toward recovery.

Call (225) 209-9943 or contact us online using our secure form.

Baton Rogue Bus Accident FAQ 

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident in Baton Rogue?

Potentially liable parties include bus drivers, bus companies, maintenance providers, other motorists, and government entities responsible for road upkeep. Our team at Clayton, Frugé & Ward investigates claims to determine what happened and who is legally responsible for our clients' damages. 

What Compensation Is Available for Baton Rogue Bus Accident Victims?

Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. When someone passes away due to a bus accident, eligible family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and loss of love, support, counsel, and companionship.

How Long Do I Have to File a Bus Accident Claim in Louisiana?

Louisiana has several statutes of limitations that apply to bus accident lawsuits. If the injury occurred on or after July 1, 2024, you have two years to sue for damages. If the injury occurred before this date, the statute of limitations is just one year. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is one year from the date of death. 

What If the Bus Accident Was Partially My Fault?

Louisiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover damages if you were partly at fault for the accident. However, the amount you can recover is reduced by your percentage of fault. So, for example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, and you are seeking $100,000 in damages, you can only recover 80% of that amount, or $80,000.