Accidents involving public transportation vehicles can be overwhelming due to the complexity of dealing with both personal injury and public entities. Understanding the necessary steps to take immediately after the incident is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring proper compensation for damages.
This guide will walk you through the essential actions to take if you're involved in such an accident and how a car accident lawyer in Nashville can assist you in navigating the legal process.
Immediate Steps After the Accident
The first moments following an accident with a public transportation vehicle, such as a bus or taxi, are critical. Here’s what you should do:
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Safety should be your top priority. Move to a secure location if possible, and check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, it’s vital to seek medical attention, as some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
Call the Police and Report the Incident
Whether the accident involves a public bus, taxi, or rideshare vehicle, it’s essential to contact law enforcement. They will document the scene and create an official police report, which will be a critical piece of evidence in your case.
Gather Information
Collect the names and contact information of all parties involved, including the driver, witnesses, and passengers. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. This information will be essential for your car accident lawyer in Nashville to build your case.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Even though public transportation vehicles are typically insured by the city or company that operates them, your own insurance may provide coverage or guidance.
Dealing with Public Entities: Challenges and Complexities
Unlike typical vehicle accidents, public transportation incidents often involve government entities, making the claims process more complex. Public entities generally have strict procedures, including shorter time frames for filing claims and different rules regarding liability.
These rules may vary depending on whether the vehicle is a city bus, school bus, or government-contracted transportation service.
A skilled car accident lawyer in Nashville will be familiar with these regulations and can help ensure that you meet all deadlines and procedural requirements when filing a claim.
How Liability Works in Public Transportation Accidents
Determining liability in a public transportation accident can be more complex than in a regular car crash. Several factors come into play, including whether the driver was negligent or if the vehicle was improperly maintained.
In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility, such as the public transportation company, a third-party maintenance provider, or even other drivers involved in the accident.
In Nashville, public buses, taxis, and other commercial vehicles are required to carry certain levels of insurance to cover passenger injuries. However, these policies can be challenging to navigate without legal help.
Your car accident lawyer in Nashville can thoroughly investigate the accident, determine who is at fault, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Public transportation accidents often involve complex legal and insurance issues. Working with an experienced attorney can help you secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repairs or replacement.
An experienced car accident lawyer will help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Seeking Legal Guidance with Bart Durham Injury Law
Accidents involving public transportation vehicles can be overwhelming, but taking immediate action and seeking legal assistance can help protect your rights.
A knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Nashville can help navigate the complexities of dealing with public entities, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
If you've been involved in a public transportation accident, Bart Durham Injury Law can help you navigate the process and protect your rights. With decades of experience handling personal injury cases in Kentucky and Tennessee, our team is well-equipped to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call or visit Bart Durham Injury Law for a FREE consultation today.
