Handling a bus accident claim can be a challenging process, involving multiple parties and insurance companies. Working with a bus accident lawyer in Greenville can make all the difference.
At Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers, we have recovered more than $100 million for our clients. Our Greenville personal injury lawyers can pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Bus accident cases often require careful attention to detail, and our team is here to guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the next steps forward.
Why You Need a Bus Accident Lawyer
Bus accident cases can be complicated due to the involvement of multiple parties, such as the bus company, driver, maintenance providers, or other drivers. Filing these claims requires an expert understanding of South Carolina’s liability laws, which can significantly impact your ability to recover fair compensation.
Under South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident; however, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%.
In bus accident cases, it is incredibly rare for riders/victims to have any fault assigned, however, proving that the driver acted negligently and ensuring you receive maximum compensation is crucial.
Stacking Insurance Policies
South Carolina also follows the principle of joint and several liability, which means that if multiple parties are responsible, you may recover your full compensation from any one of them.
Additionally, the state allows for the stacking of insurance policies, which could increase the total amount of compensation available in cases where multiple policies apply, such as the bus company’s insurance and other liable parties’ coverage.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bus Accident?
In a bus accident, several parties may be responsible depending on the circumstances. Identifying who is at fault is an important step in seeking compensation. Some of the parties who may be held liable include:
- The bus driver: If the driver was speeding, distracted, or violated traffic laws, they may be at fault for the accident.
- The bus company: Bus companies must hire qualified drivers, train them properly, and keep their vehicles in safe working condition. If they fail in these duties, they can be held responsible.
- Maintenance providers: Poor maintenance, such as failing brakes or worn tires, can lead to accidents. If this happens, the maintenance provider may share liability.
- Other drivers: If another vehicle’s driver caused the accident through reckless or negligent behavior, they may also be held accountable.
A careful review of the accident can help identify who is responsible. A bus accident attorney in Greenville can assist in determining liability and pursuing compensation.
Why Choose Auger & Auger for Your Bus Accident Claim?
Since 1995, Auger & Auger has built a reputation as a trusted personal injury law firm, serving thousands of clients across the Carolinas.
Here’s why so many people choose us:
- Proven results: We have recovered over $100 million for our clients and maintain a 99.5% success rate.
- Experienced attorneys: Each of our lawyers has an average of 19 years of personal injury experience, providing seasoned representation.
- Family–owned, local firm: As a family-owned law firm, we’re proud to offer personalized service and accessibility to every client.
- Contingency–based representation: You don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Client–focused approach: Our strategies are always designed with our clients’ best interests in mind.
For nearly three decades, Auger & Auger has been dedicated to helping clients pursue fair compensation with professionalism and care.
Potential Compensation Our Greenville Bus Collision Lawyers Can Pursue
A bus accident can lead to significant financial and emotional challenges, but pursuing compensation can help ease the burden. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, medication, and any future medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income and any reduction in future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation may be available for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: If your personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to reimbursement.
- Wrongful death: In cases where a loved one was lost in a bus accident, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
Determining the value of your claim requires an in-depth review of your accident and injuries. At Auger & Auger, our experienced legal team works to identify all possible damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do You Have to File a Bus Accident Lawsuit?
In South Carolina, the timeframe to file a bus accident lawsuit is governed by the state’s statute of limitations. Under South Carolina Code § 15-3-530, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This same three-year limit applies to wrongful death claims, starting from the date of the victim’s passing.
However, if the bus involved is owned by a government entity, such as a public transit authority, different rules apply. Claims against government agencies are subject to the South Carolina Tort Claims Act (S.C. Code § 15-78-110), which requires a verified claim to be filed within one year.
Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. At Auger & Auger, we can help ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe and handle all legal requirements. Contact us today to protect your rights and explore your legal options.
Let Our Greenville Bus Accident Lawyers Assist You
At Auger & Auger, we are committed to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve after a bus accident. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Our team provides personalized support, handling every aspect of your claim from start to finish.
We take care of investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies so you can focus on recovery. We also offer free consultations and can travel to meet you if needed, whether at home or in the hospital.
Contact Auger & Auger today to discuss your case and let us help you move forward with confidence.
