Bus Accident Claims*

Being involved in a bus accident can be a distressing experience, whether you were a passenger, driver, or another road user. If the accident was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries sustained. Sherwin O’ Riordan’s dedicated team of personal injury solicitors has extensive experience in handling public transport accident claims, including those involving buses. We are committed to helping you understand your rights and navigate the claims process to secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Your Rights

Public transport operators, including bus companies and their drivers, have a duty of care to ensure the safety of their passengers. This means they are legally obligated to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents and protect passengers from harm. This duty extends to maintaining vehicles in good condition, providing adequate training to staff, and adhering to all relevant safety regulations. If a bus operator breaches this duty of care, and you are injured as a result, you have the right to claim compensation. This applies whether you are a passenger, a pedestrian, or another road user involved in an accident with a bus.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

Following an accident on public transport, it’s crucial to take specific steps to protect your health and legal rights.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. This establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries, and medical records serve as vital evidence in your claim.
2. Report the Incident: Report the accident to the bus driver or transit authority staff immediately. They are often required to create an official incident report. If emergency services are present, obtain copies of their reports as well. It is also important to report the incident to the Gardaí, regardless of how minor it seems.
3. Document the Scene and Gather Evidence: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, focusing on conditions that may have contributed to the injury, such as damaged seating or sudden stops. Gather contact information from any witnesses. Collect details of the bus (vehicle number, route), and any other parties involved (names, addresses, contact information, vehicle registration, and insurance details). Note the time and date of the accident and weather conditions.
4. Maintain Detailed Records: Keep records of medical treatments, expenses, correspondence with insurance companies, and other relevant documents.
5. Contact a Solicitor at Sherwin O’Riordan: Consult with one of our solicitors specializing in public transport accident claims as soon as possible. They can advise you on your rights, gather evidence, and guide you through the claims process.

Common Types of Bus Accidents and Injuries

Bus accidents can occur in various ways, leading to a range of injuries. Some common scenarios include:

• Falls: Slips, trips, and falls on buses due to uneven surfaces, poorly maintained steps, or sudden movements.
• Collisions: Accidents involving buses with other vehicles or objects.
• Sudden Braking: Injuries caused by sudden stops or jerks, leading to passengers being thrown forward.
• Boarding and Alighting Incidents: Accidents occurring while getting on or off a vehicle, such as tripping on steps or being caught in doors.
• Poorly Maintained Infrastructure: Accidents caused by faulty equipment, such as broken seats or malfunctioning doors.

The injuries sustained in bus accidents can vary widely, from minor bruises and sprains to more serious and life-altering conditions. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, head injuries (including concussions), spinal injuries, and psychological trauma such as anxiety or PTSD.

How to Make a Bus Accident Claim*

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, the process generally involves these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention: As mentioned, this is the first and most crucial step for your health and for establishing a medical record of your injuries.
2. Gather Information: Collect all possible details and evidence from the scene, including photographs, witness details, and official reports.
3. Report the Incident: Ensure the accident is reported to the Gardaí and the bus company.
4. Consult a Solicitor: Contact a personal injury solicitor specializing in bus accident claims. They will advise you on your rights and the claims process.
5. Application to the Injuries Board: In Ireland, the first step for personal injury claims is typically to submit an application to the Injuries Board (now known as the Personal Injuries Assessment Board or PIAB) for an assessment of your claim. Your solicitor will guide you through completing the necessary forms.
6. Negotiation and Settlement: Your solicitor will handle all communication with the PIAB and/or the opposing party, aiming to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
7. Court Proceedings (if necessary): If an assessment by the PIAB is rejected by either or both parties, or if the case falls outside the PIAB’s remit, the claim may then be brought before the Courts.

Time Limits for Making a Claim*

It’s important to be aware of the time limits for making a claim. You generally have two years from the date of the accident to initiate a claim. This is known as the Statute of Limitations. If you are under 18, different rules apply; either the child’s parents can make a claim on their behalf, or they can themselves make a claim following their 18th birthday, having two years from that point. It is always recommended to consult with a solicitor as soon as possible after the accident to ensure your claim is processed in a timely manner.

Compensation for Bus Accidents

The amount of compensation you may be awarded if your claim is successful will depend on the type, extent, and nature of your injuries, and your pain and suffering as a result. Compensation can cover:

• General Damages: For pain and suffering, and the impact of the injuries on your quality of life.
• Special Damages: For financial losses incurred due to the accident, such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, loss of earnings (both past and future), and other out-of-pocket expenses. It is important to document all related costs to ensure comprehensive compensation. Psychological effects of your accident also come into play

Why Choose Sherwin O’ Riordan

Sherwin O’ Riordan have a proven track record of successfully handling public transport accident claims. Our experienced solicitors will:

• Provide expert legal advice and guidance.
• Investigate your claim thoroughly.
• Gather all necessary evidence .
• Handle all communication with the PIAB and/or the opposing party.
• Negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf .
• Represent you in court if necessary.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial impact of a public transport accident. Our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Contact our Public Transport Accident Solicitors in Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow & Nationwide

Ph: 01 663 2000

Contact us today through our online contact form.

* In contentious business a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.