Chicago Bus Accident Lawyer
Buses are a common sight throughout just about every inch of Chicago. Unfortunately, bus accidents do occur regularly in our area, and they can cause serious physical and emotional trauma to those in other vehicles, on the bus, as well as innocent bystanders. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, our team is here to help if you need a Chicago bus accident lawyer by your side. We know victims need compensation, but we also know that they can struggle to deal with the insurance carriers and legal teams involved. That’s what we do. Let us get started on your claim today.
Common Types of Bus Collisions That Occur in Chicago
Bus accidents in Chicago can happen in various ways, each presenting its own dangers. Some of the most common types of bus collisions include:
- Rear-end collisions. These occur when a bus crashes into the back of another vehicle or when a vehicle hits the back of a bus. Given the size and weight of buses, these collisions can lead to significant damage and injuries, particularly to smaller vehicles involved.
- Side-impact collisions. Also known as T-bone accidents, these collisions happen when the side of a bus is struck by another vehicle or when a bus strikes the side of another vehicle. Side-impact crashes with a bus can be particularly dangerous for passengers sitting on the side where the impact occurs.
- Bus rollovers. Although less common, rollovers can happen when a bus makes a sharp turn at high speed or when it is involved in a collision that destabilizes it. The top-heavy nature of buses makes them more prone to rolling over, which can lead to catastrophic injuries for passengers.
- Multi-vehicle pileups. Buses involved in accidents on busy Chicago roads can trigger multi-vehicle pileups, especially during peak traffic hours. The momentum of a bus can lead to a chain reaction of collisions, causing widespread damage and injuries.
Specific Challenges Associated With Chicago Bus Accident Cases
Bus accident cases in Chicago present unique challenges that can complicate the process of securing compensation for victims. Some of these challenges include:
- Multiple liable parties. Determining liability after a Chicago bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be involved. These could include the bus driver, the bus company, maintenance providers, or even government entities if the bus is operated by a public transit system like the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA).
- Public versus private operators. The rules and regulations governing bus operations can vary depending on whether the vehicle is operated by a public entity, like the CTA, or a private company. Claims against public entities often involve different legal procedures and shorter filing deadlines, which can add another layer of complexity to the case.
- Governmental immunity. When a bus is operated by a government agency, such as the CTA, the agency may be protected by governmental immunity, which limits the circumstances under which they can be sued. However, exceptions exist, particularly in cases involving negligence, so it is important to have a knowledgeable attorney who understands how to navigate these legal protections.
Time Limit for Filing a Bus Accident Claim
In Illinois, there is a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a bus accident. Victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
However, if the claim is against a government entity, such as the CTA, the timeline may be shorter, sometimes requiring that a claim be filed within six months. It is crucial to act quickly to preserve your rights. Delays in filing can result in the loss of evidence or the inability to bring a claim at all.
Consulting with an experienced Chicago bus accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident will help ensure that all legal deadlines are met and that your case is handled efficiently.
Contact Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Chicago, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC are here to help. We understand the complexities involved in these cases and will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your claim by visiting our website at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC or calling us at (312) 586-1700.