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Columbia, MO Bus Accident Lawyer

Buses are an excellent form of public transportation that allows a group of people to travel around with the freedom of the highway or city roads. Unfortunately, a bus accident may result in devastating damages to those involved. Individuals who have been injured in a bus accident may have sustained severe injuries, property damage and mounting medical bills which could cause serious hardships on a family. Unfortunately, many insurance companies are not willing to just pay out whatever damage you suffered.

If you or a loved one were injured in a collision involving a public transportation vehicle, enlist the help and knowledge of a Columbia, MO bus accident lawyer. Most people are ill-equipped to handle the legal aspects of a lawsuit alone. Our dedicated attorneys at A.W. Smith Law Firm, P.C. will work hard to help you recover compensation from the responsible party. Our skilled legal team has helped a client recover $1.16 million for a bus accident.

A seasoned personal injury attorney may be able to help you gather evidence and effectively present the value of your injuries in court.

Negligence in a Bus Collision

If a party’s negligent actions injured another, they may be required to compensate the victim for the value of the damage suffered. In a collision involving a public transportation vehicle the bus driver, other motor vehicle drivers, those who have maintained the roads, and even bus manufacturers could be held liable in court. A diligent Columbia bus accident lawyer could review the facts of the case and determine which party may be responsible for damages.

Governmental Entities

If the responsible party is a government employee, sovereign immunity does not apply to injuries caused by bus accidents, as described in Missouri Statute §537.600. Though the law usually does not allow suits against the State of Missouri or other government bodies, the law makes an exception for vehicle accidents.

Deadline to File a Claim in Columbia

Each state legislature mandates their own statute of limitations to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Missouri, the victim must file their lawsuit within five years of the accident, or the court may bar the claim according to Missouri Statute  §516.120.

Recoverable Damages for a Bus Crash

When another party is responsible for a bus collision, they may be required to pay the plaintiff compensation for the injuries and damages. With the help of a Columbia bus accident lawyer, individuals may be eligible to recover compensation for damages such as:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

Our lawyers at The A.W. Smith Law Firm could gather evidence and review medical records to prove the extent of the plaintiff’s injuries in court.

Get Help from a Columbia Bus Accident Lawyer Today

It can be challenging to know what to do following a bus accident. A Columbia bus accident lawyer could advise you of the steps to take following a collision. They could also help you learn more about your rights and how you could pursue recovery actions against the party that injured you. The insurance company may attempt to settle for less than the full value of your damages.

It may be helpful to meet with our team at The A.W. Smith Law Firm who understands these types of cases and can advise you of your legal options. Schedule a free consultation today.