Countless buses carry passengers every day in Atlanta, and most complete their routes safely. But when negligence leads to fatal accidents, families face overwhelming grief complicated by questions about their legal rights.
Pursuing a wrongful death claim after a fatal bus accident requires navigating complicated liability issues and dealing with powerful government agencies or transportation companies and their insurers. In these situations, a knowledgeable Atlanta wrongful death lawyer can help your family seek the justice that you deserve.
Causes of Fatal Bus Accidents in Atlanta, Georgia
Bus accidents can happen for a mix of reasons, from human error and poor maintenance to mechanical failures and inclement weather. However, these crashes frequently happen when multiple risk factors converge, leading to catastrophic outcomes that forever change families’ lives.
Some of the most common causes of fatal bus accidents include:
- Fatigued drivers
- Inadequate driver training
- Equipment failure
- Distracted driving
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Unsafe road conditions
- Improper turns
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Speeding
- Passenger disturbances
- Improper loading
- Drug or alcohol use
Who Is Liable for Wrongful Death Caused by a Bus Accident?
If you lost a loved one in a fatal bus accident, you may have grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims allow families to hold the responsible party accountable and secure compensation to help pay for the losses that they sustained due to the death. However, identifying the responsible party can be the tricky part.
Bus accident liability often involves multiple parties, each potentially contributing to the fatal incident through their actions or inactions. If any of the following parties violate their duties of care, leading to a fatal accident, you could name them as defendants in a wrongful death claim:
- Bus Companies: Transportation providers must maintain their fleet, properly train drivers, and follow all applicable safety regulations.
- Government Entities: City or state agencies operating public transit systems bear responsibility for their vehicles and employees. The government must also maintain safe road conditions.
- Bus Manufacturers: Companies producing buses or parts must ensure that their products are free from manufacturing and design defects and include proper warnings and instructions.
- Maintenance Providers: Third-party maintenance companies must properly service and repair buses to prevent accidents.
- Other Motorists: Drivers must operate their vehicles in a manner that is safe for the road conditions and follow all traffic laws to avoid accidents with other vehicles, including buses.
Claims Against Government Entities versus Private Companies
If you pursue a wrongful death lawsuit after a bus accident, a government agency may be involved. In these situations, time is of the essence. Claims against government entities involve stricter deadlines and specific procedural requirements compared to cases against private companies.
An Atlanta car accident attorney understands these differences and can help you navigate the complex processes. They can ensure that all required notices are properly filed, all evidence is preserved, and that you comply with all procedural requirements.
Contact Monge & Associates Today and Let Us Fight for You
The loss of a loved one in a bus accident creates unimaginable pain, and families deserve justice. The wrongful death attorneys at Monge & Associates possess the experience, resources, and determination to hold negligent parties accountable.
We can handle all aspects of your case, from negotiations to courtroom representation, while your family focuses on healing. Call (678) 535-3938 today for a free consultation and learn how we can help secure the compensation your family deserves.