Stephen Hasner | Motor Vehicle Accidents | November 18, 2023
In Georgia, where buses play a crucial role in daily transportation, the aftermath of a bus accident can be emotionally and financially overwhelming for victims. Whether the accident involves private tour companies, school buses, or public transportation, determining liability can be complex. However, victims do not need to face these legal challenges alone. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance, helping victims untangle the web of liability, advocate for their rights, and pursue damages from both private and public entities on your behalf.
At Hasner Law, our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients recover benefits for the full extent of their injuries and other losses. We are committed to handling every detail of your claim so you can focus entirely on your healing and recovery. We have an established history of achieving successful outcomes for our clients and are ready to apply our expertise to your unique case.
Pursuing Damages from a Private Bus Company
Private bus companies include any bus not operated by a government agency, including rental buses, church buses, and long-distance coaches that travel across state lines. Despite being owned by private companies, these vehicles are still held to a high standard. Buses are considered “passenger carriers,” and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires them to abide by national guidelines, including strict drug and alcohol tests for employees, maintenance guidelines, and weight limits.
If a bus company fails to uphold these critical safety standards, it may be held liable through a personal injury claim. The deadline for filing these claims is two years from the accident date. While this may seem like plenty of time to seek justice, evidence may be damaged or lost over time, and key witnesses may forget critical details about what they saw. An attorney can work to begin your case without delay so you meet these vital filing deadlines.
Holding Government Agencies Accountable
Public buses are operated by local, state, or federal government agencies. In Atlanta, the public buses are managed by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), while Atlanta Public Schools oversee school buses. However, you have likely seen or ridden on federally managed buses such as Greyhound coaches.
To secure benefits from a governmental bus accident, you must file a claim under the Georgia Tort Claims Act. This law allows victims of public bus accidents to recover damages due to driver negligence, but the process is significantly more complex. Additionally, victims only have one year from the accident date to notify a government agency of a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may forfeit your right to file your claim. At Hasner Law, our attorneys are well-versed in all aspects of Georgia law and can help you pursue these complex cases and recover damages for the full scope of your injuries and other losses.
Speak With a First-Class Bus Accident Attorney at Hasner Law
At Hasner Law, our dedicated team holds a collective century of expertise, advocating relentlessly for victims of bus accidents. We’re deeply familiar with the intricacies of Georgia’s transportation and personal injury laws, standing firmly by your side throughout your journey for justice. We are committed to helping you seek the justice you deserve. Our attorneys can help you navigate every step of the legal process.
To discuss your bus accident case and discover how we can support you, don’t hesitate to contact us at (678) 928-8784 or via our contact form.
