Harrisburg Bus Accident Lawyers

Tens of Millions Recovered by Bus Accident Attorneys in Pennsylvania

Nearly everyone in the U.S. has been a bus passenger. Buses are used by both public transportation agencies and private travel companies, city- and county-wide, for commuters and tourists alike. They are also a common mode of transport for students: nearly 25 million U.S. children ride a school bus. We see or ride buses so often that we forget they're inherently dangerous vehicles; many of them are old, top-heavy, or lack seat belts, making bus crashes more devastating than even the worst car accident.

There are other reasons bus accidents are almost always catastrophic. Buses, due to their size and poor maneuverability, have a much longer stopping distance than cars. Consequently, it's difficult for operators to react swiftly to sudden hazards on the road. This increases the risk for passengers and adjacent motorists. Moreover, many bus routes traverse busy urban landscapes where traffic congestion and pedestrian activity pose additional hazards.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a bus accident, you'll need to pursue financial compensation for your losses to recover what you've lost, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg, our Pennsylvania bus accident attorneys have dedicated their careers to helping injured victims and families get justice. Our firm has the experience and resources to pursue bus accident claims, working tirelessly to help clients receive the best possible outcome for their cases.

Call (888) 498-3023 to review your legal options with a bus accident attorney in Pennsylvania. We serve clients in Carlisle, Hanover, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Schuylkill County, and York.

Why Pennsylvania Bus Accidents Happen

Bus accidents primarily happen for the same reasons as car accidents. Bus drivers can be poorly trained, distracted, or drunk; the same applies to other drivers on the road. However, bus accidents are often far worse than car accidents because they carry dozens of passengers, many of whom aren't wearing seat belts. That's why victims risk suffering catastrophic injuries.

The infrastructure for bus travel impacts safety, including road conditions and traffic management. Inadequate maintenance of roadways and bus terminals can lead to increased risks of accidents. Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or fog further complicate safe travel, creating dangerous situations for both drivers and passengers.

Bus passengers may be seriously injured as a result of:

• Speeding or driving under the influence
• Inadequately trained bus drivers
• Lack of safety restraints
• Negligent bus driver hiring or training practices
• Bus rollovers caused by top-heavy designs

Poor maintenance have also contributed to bus accidents in Harrisburg and Central Pennsylvania. Bus brakes are subjected to tremendous pressure, requiring frequent maintenance. Unfortunately, brake and other maintenance problems are sometimes ignored to limit time in the shop and keep buses in operation. 

Common Injuries from Pennsylvania Bus Accidents

Bus accidents often result in very serious injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved, as well as the fact that passengers often do not wear seatbelts and are not protected by airbags or other safety features. Additionally, because buses are often top-heavy in design, they are prone to tipping or rolling over, meaning these accidents are often catastrophic in nature.  

Another contributing factor to the severity of injuries sustained in bus accidents is the lack of immediate medical facilities on board. Unlike airplanes, buses do not carry medical kits or personnel to provide urgent care, leaving passengers vulnerable to prolonged suffering if emergency services are delayed.

Some of the most common bus accident-related injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBIs, from concussions to more serious brain damage, can lead to long-term physical and cognitive issues.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis, chronic pain, reduced mobility, and impairment of important bodily functions.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a bus collision can lead to severe bone fractures, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. 
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries can cause chronic pain and discomfort, impacting daily activities and requiring ongoing care. 
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as punctured lungs or damage to other internal organs, can be life-threatening and often require immediate medical attention.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a bus accident, it is crucial that you consult an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of your case. At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC, we are here to help you seek the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Holding Negligent Bus Companies & Drivers Accountable

When you entrust your safety to a bus company, you expect them to uphold rigorous standards to protect you and your fellow passengers. Bus companies have a fundamental responsibility to thoroughly vet their drivers, ensuring they possess the necessary qualifications and a clean driving record. Additionally, these companies must implement and enforce safe driving practices, providing continuous training to ensure their drivers are well-equipped to handle various road conditions and emergencies.

Proper vehicle maintenance is another critical aspect of a bus company’s duty of care. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. When bus companies neglect these responsibilities, they put everyone at risk.

Bus drivers also have a significant responsibility for the safety of their passengers and others on the road. They must adhere to traffic laws, operate the bus safely, and remain vigilant to avoid potential hazards. Distracted driving, fatigue, or any form of reckless behavior can have severe consequences. When a bus driver fails to uphold their duty, they can be held accountable for the harm caused by their negligence. 

By pursuing legal action against negligent bus companies and drivers, victims can seek justice and the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. Our Pennsylvania bus accident attorneys at Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC are ready to take on these complex, challenging cases.

Your Legal Rights After a Pennsylvania Bus Accident

Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, bus accidents cause between 11,000 and 15,000 injuries per year, killing around 300 people. Of these, about 1,700 injuries and 20 fatalities happen to school bus passengers. Whether you or a loved one have been injured in a bus accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages and hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. 

Our Pennsylvania bus accident lawyers work tirelessly to ensure you receive the best medical treatment for your injuries while thoroughly investigating your accident.

We understand the tremendous stress victims and their families go through after tragic bus accidents, which is why we waste no time helping you get back on your feet. We encourage you to reach out to our team as soon as possible after a bus accident. Without an experienced bus accident attorney in Pennsylvania by your side, companies and their insurers will try to pay you as little as possible.

After a Bus Accident, You Need to Act Quickly

If you were involved in a bus accident as a bus passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or occupant of another vehicle, you need to act swiftly to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

Immediately seeking legal counsel after a bus accident has many benefits:

• Critical evidence can be preserved before it is “lost” or degraded over time.
• You can avoid missing key deadlines for filing your claim or lawsuit.
• It will be easier to identify at-fault parties when investigations begin immediately.
• Your medical care will be well-documented, better supporting your claim. 
• You can avoid making statements or accepting settlements that adversely affect your case.
• You can rest easier with the knowledge that your claim is in good hands.

Prompt legal action is also crucial for ensuring that victims have access to the necessary medical support services. Timely documentation and legal representation can provide access to physical therapy, counseling, and other rehabilitative services that may be required following a bus accident. Engaging an attorney at the earliest opportunity ensures comprehensive handling of all legal aspects while victims focus on recovery.

By acting quickly after a Pennsylvania bus accident, you can significantly strengthen your position and improve your chances of a favorable outcome in your pursuit of justice and compensation.

How to Strengthen Your Claim After a Bus Accident

Plaintiffs often feel overwhelmed as they navigate the aftermath of bus accidents in Harrisburg, so knowing how to protect your recovery rights in a personal injury claim is essential. By taking these steps, you can help strengthen your claim and improve your chances of securing the financial recovery you need to manage unexpected financial costs associated with the accident. 

Accurately reporting what happened to local law enforcement, collecting detailed accident reports, and other proactive activities could strengthen your claim. Furthermore, understanding your rights under Pennsylvania law will empower you in negotiating any settlements or in any court proceedings that might occur.

Here are some essential actions to consider:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it's vital to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not surface immediately.
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your injuries, medical treatments, and any conversations with insurance companies.
• Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries to support your claim.
• Get Witnesses Information: Collect contact information from witnesses who can corroborate your account of the accident, if possible. 
• Consult with a Lawyer: Reach out to a knowledgeable attorney who can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process on your behalf.

Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging situation alone—Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC can handle many of these for you every step of the way.

Understanding Harrisburg Bus Accident Liability

Understanding the Complex Web of Liability

In bus accidents, determining liability is often more complicated than in car accidents due to the multiple parties that may be involved. The bus driver, bus company, parts manufacturers, and even government entities that manage public transportation infrastructure all could hold some responsibility. Thorough investigations are essential to identify which party's negligence led to the accident. Our team at Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC is highly skilled at navigating these complex liability issues to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Factors Impacting Liability

Several factors can influence liability in a bus accident. Poor training or hiring practices by the bus company can indicate negligence. If the accident involved a school bus, the educational institution may also bear some responsibility. Additionally, poorly maintained roads or faulty traffic signals can make governmental entities liable. At Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC, we diligently pursue every angle to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.