Bus accidents differ from passenger vehicle accidents due to the complex regulations governing commercial vehicles, multiple parties possibly involved in a claim, and the potential for devastating injuries due to the massive size of these vehicles. At Wagner Reese, LLP, our bus accident lawyers in West Lafayette can provide you with the high-powered legal representation you need to recover maximum compensation for your injuries and losses in a bus accident.

With a collective experience of more than 150 years, our award-winning legal team can take on complex bus accident cases and fight for the rights of injured victims. While our numerous honors and accolades as West Lafayette personal injury lawyers reflect our commitment to legal excellence, we believe our record of multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts and the satisfaction of our clients truly speak volumes.

Potential Negligent Parties in Bus Accident Cases

Many parties could bear responsibility for your bus accident, including:

  • Bus Driver: The driver may be liable for negligent actions such as distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence.
  • Bus Company: The company may be held accountable for inadequate training, improper maintenance of the vehicle, or failure to adhere to safety regulations.
  • School District: In school bus accidents, the school district or board of education may be liable for failing to enforce safety protocols, inadequate training of drivers, or not providing proper supervision of students.
  • Government Entities: Local or state government agencies can be held responsible for unsafe road conditions, inadequate signage, or failure to maintain the roadway properly.
  • Maintenance Contractors: Companies responsible for maintaining the bus or its equipment may be liable if negligence in maintenance contributed to the accident.
  • Manufacturers: If a defect in the bus or its parts (like brakes or tires) caused the accident, manufacturers of the defective products can be held liable.
  • Passengers: In some cases, other passengers may contribute to the negligence through disruptive behavior that distracts the driver.

Minimum Liability Insurance Coverage for Interstate Bus Operations in Indiana

In Indiana, the minimum liability insurance coverage required for commercial buses varies based on the type of service the bus provides. According to Indiana Code § 9-26-2-1, commercial buses must have the following minimum liability coverage:

  • $1,500,000 for vehicles carrying more than 15 passengers, including the driver (for interstate commerce).
  • $750,000 for vehicles carrying 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver (for interstate commerce).

When the stakes are the highest, a West Lafayette truck accident lawyer and bus accident lawyer on our team can rise to the occasion to pursue maximum financial recovery from the insurance company.

Steps to Take Following a Bus Accident

  • Notify the Police: Report the accident to local law enforcement to ensure an official record is created.
  • Contact Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Ensure that all injured parties receive immediate medical attention.
  • Gather Evidence: Collect evidence from the scene, including photographs, witness statements, and bus driver information.
  • Notify the Bus Company: Inform the bus company about the accident to initiate their internal investigation and preserve evidence.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible.
  • File a Formal Complaint: Submit a formal complaint to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) or relevant transportation authority if necessary.
  • Draft a Demand Letter: Prepare and send a demand letter to the responsible party’s insurance company outlining your claims and the compensation sought.
  • Consult with Experts: Engage accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals to assess injuries and damages.
  • Negotiate with the Insurers: Engage in negotiations based on robust evidence to achieve the highest settlement.
  • Go to Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, prepare for the court battle to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Get Our Proven and Capable Bus Accident Lawyers in West Lafayette, IN on Your Side

At Wagner Reese, we understand that bus companies and their insurance providers will do everything possible to minimize your settlement, but we have the resources and skills needed to combat them effectively. Our attorneys work relentlessly to level the playing field and fight for the highest compensation you need to recover from your injuries and rebuild your life. To schedule your free consultation, call us at (866) 991-4892 or contact us online.