Bus accidents are frightening, chaotic experiences, and they happen more often than you would think. Between 1999 and 2005, roughly 63,000 buses were involved in accidents each year, causing an estimated 14,000 injuries and 325 deaths, according the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. Knowing what to do after a bus accident in Columbus will help you protect yourself physically and financially.
Below are a few of the first things you will need to take care of. For specific questions about your case or how to pursue compensation for your injuries, call bus accident attorney David Bressman today at 877-538-1116.
#1: Get medical attention.
Tending to your injuries is of primary importance. Even if you do not think your injuries are serious, seek a medical evaluation anyway. This serves two purposes:
- First, it protects your health; you may have internal injuries, such as a concussion or internal organ damage, that have yet to manifest, and evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment can save your life.
- Secondly, having your injuries, however minor they may seem initially, documented by the doctor can protect you legally if you need to file a claim later to recover your damages.
#2: Document the scene of the accident.
If you are able, document as much information as you can about the accident while at the scene. This can be very instrumental when filing a claim or lawsuit for your injuries.
Take photos and/or video of the scene/location, the damage to the bus and other cars, and the mayhem. Ask for the officer’s name, as well, as a reference for the insurer or to obtain a copy of the police report later.
Also, jot down the names and contact information of other passengers and any non-passenger witnesses in case you need their testimonies later.
#3: Collect evidence about your injuries.
In addition to the above information, start collecting any other types of documentation or facts that you may be able to use as evidence to support your claim for damages.
Save any bills and receipts you have for your injury-related expenses. Do not forget miscellaneous expenses such as the cost of transportation to your medical visits, prescriptions, and assistive devices.
If you had to miss work time or if you lost a promotion/clients because of your injuries, document those losses, too. You can also share your medical record and prognosis with your attorney so he can create a comprehensive list of your losses and demand payment for them.
#4: Contact Bressman Law to file a bus accident claim.
Lastly, if you have not done so already, enlist the help of a bus accident attorney at Bressman Law to help you with your claim. These kinds of cases can be tricky due to the involvement of multiple parties as well as the potential for disputed liability.
We can help you sort out the issues and obtain maximum compensation for your losses. Contact our office in Columbus at 877-538-1116 and schedule a free consult.