Bus Accidents

Over 30 Years of Dedicated Experience

Bus Accident Lawyer New Orleans

Understanding Bus Accident Claims in Louisiana

Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in large truck and bus accidents throughout the United States. In Louisiana alone, there were 85 fatal accidents and another 2,415 injury-causing accidents involving large trucks and buses in 2020, according to data compiled by Louisiana State University.

Sadly, bus accident victims who survive these crashes often sustain severe, life-altering injuries. As a result, they face numerous challenges in the aftermath of the accident, from obtaining proper medical care to managing everyday expenses while out of work to learning how to cope with new disabilities. While nothing can negate the pain and suffering caused by these accidents, victims and their loved ones may be entitled to financial compensation to help them cope with economic and non-financial hardships they now face.

Contact us online or call our office at (504) 470-3935 to schedule a free consultation with one of our New Orleans bus accident attorneys. We are available 24/7!

If you or someone you love was injured in a bus accident in or around New Orleans, reach out to The Womac Law Firm today. Since 1983, we have been dedicated to helping injured individuals regain their independence. We strive to hold negligent and reckless parties accountable so that you can move forward with your life.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Like any other motor vehicle accident, bus accidents often result from human error and negligence. At The Womac Law Firm, our New Orleans bus accident attorney conducts exhaustive investigations into our clients' claims to determine what factors led to the accident, as well as who is liable for our clients' damages.

Some of the most common causes of bus accidents include:

Distracted driving
Driving while intoxicated
Speeding
Reckless or aggressive driving
Traffic law violations
Hours of service violations
Fatigued driving
Weight distribution problems
Poor vehicle handling, especially in urban areas
Road/construction defects
Vehicle defects
Third-party negligence
Inadequate bus maintenance or repairs

Bus accidents can also be exacerbated by poor weather conditions, which can impact driving visibility and road traction. In addition, driver inexperience or inadequate training is a critical factor, as drivers who lack proper training may not handle certain situations effectively. Regular training and certification updates for bus drivers are essential to ensuring passenger safety and minimizing risks on the road.

Whether a bus driver was speeding to keep up with a tight schedule or a distracted driver collided with a bus, the consequences of these crashes are often devastating. Because bus passengers typically lack basic safety protections, like seatbelts and airbags, they are highly likely to suffer catastrophic injuries in the event of a crash.

Bus Accident Cases We Handle

At The Womac Law Firm, we represent clients who have been injured or who have lost loved ones in all types of bus accidents. Whether you were injured as a bus passenger, the occupant of another vehicle, or even as a pedestrian or bicyclist, our team is ready to fight for you.

Our firm handles bus accident cases involving:

City buses
Charter buses
Coaches/motor coaches
Shuttle buses
School buses
Streetcars
Party buses
Minibuses

No matter the type of accident you were involved in, our experienced legal team is ready to protect your rights and represent your best interests. Our dedicated, responsive, and client-focused approach has helped us recover millions of dollars for our clients—and we are ready to fight for you, too.

Bus accidents vary greatly in terms of cause and effect. Determining the specific type of bus involved can significantly influence the strategy employed for your claim. For example, accidents involving city or school buses may involve different liability and regulatory issues compared to those involving charter or party buses. Understanding these distinctions helps us tailor our approach to ensure that all relevant regulations are addressed, resulting in a stronger claim. Our team is equipped to handle the nuances of different bus accident scenarios, offering strategic advice and powerful advocacy in each case.

What to Do Immediately After a Bus Accident

Experiencing a bus accident can be overwhelming and disorienting. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after the incident can significantly impact your recovery and potential legal claims.

Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate this challenging time:

Ensure Safety: First and foremost, check for injuries. If it's safe to do so, move to a secure location away from traffic.
Call Emergency Services: Contact the police and medical assistance if needed. A police report can be crucial for your case.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Exchange Information: Gather details from the bus driver, including their name, contact information, and the bus company’s details.
Avoid Admitting Fault: In the aftermath, refrain from discussing fault or liability with anyone at the scene, as this can impact your case.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation is essential.
Contact Womac Law Firm: Reach out to our experienced attorneys who specialize in bus accident claims. We can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you are prepared to handle the aftermath of a bus accident effectively. Remember, the sooner you take action, the better your chances of a successful outcome in your case.

After completing these immediate steps, it is also advisable to maintain a detailed record of all related interactions and expenses, including medical visits and repair costs. Documenting your recovery journey not only helps track your personal health progress but also strengthens your claim by providing evidence of ongoing impacts resulting from the accident.

Why Choose Womac Law Firm for Your Bus Accident Case?

Proper legal representation can make all the difference when negotiating the complexities of bus accident claims. At Womac Law Firm, we are committed to offering our clients individualized, caring support throughout the whole legal process since we recognize the special issues that emerge from bus accident situations.

Here are just a few reasons why you should choose us:

Experienced Legal Team: Our lawyers are well-versed in Louisiana law and have handled a number of bus accident claims in the past.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We carry out exhaustive research to compile all pertinent data, making sure that no detail is overlooked as we construct your case.
Personalized Attention: We believe in treating every client as an individual, tailoring our approach to your specific needs and circumstances.
Strong Negotiation Skills: Whether through settlement or trial, our team has the ability to successfully negotiate with insurance companies to obtain the compensation you are entitled to.

Don't try to handle a bus accident's aftermath by yourself. Allow Womac Law Firm to act as your dependable representative in your quest for the recompense and justice you are due. For a free consultation, please contact us!

If you or someone you love was involved in a bus accident, contact us online or call

Who Is Liable for Your Injuries & Losses?

Determining who is liable for your injuries and losses after a bus accident can be very complicated. Because bus drivers are commercial vehicle operators, meaning they are usually on the clock when these accidents occur, their employers are often liable. However, when third-party negligence plays a role in an accident, victims may need to pursue personal injury claims against those third parties rather than or in addition to claims against the bus driver and/or the bus company.

Depending on the circumstances of an accident, any of the following parties could be partially or solely liable for your injuries and damages:

The bus driver
The entity that owns or leases the bus
A government or municipal entity
The manufacturer of a defective bus/part
The driver of another vehicle
The party responsible for bus maintenance or repairs

Our New Orleans bus accident lawyers know how to properly investigate these claims to determine who was at fault for the accident, as well as who is liable for your resulting damages. Armed with this information, we work tirelessly to recover the fair compensation you deserve.

Understanding liability in bus accidents involves an intricate analysis of multiple legal and regulatory frameworks. It is not uncommon for multiple parties to share liability, which adds a layer of complexity to claims. Our team is adept at navigating these complexities, ensuring that each potentially liable party is identified and held accountable. This comprehensive approach increases the effectiveness of the pursuit for justice and compensation.

Damages in Bus Accident Claims

When someone else is negligent or acts wrongfully, they can typically be held responsible for injured victims’ economic and non-economic damages. The term “damages” refers to any losses a victim suffers due to the accident and/or their injuries.

After a bus accident, your damages may include things like:

Medical bills
Lost income/wages
Future medical expenses and lost earnings
Pain and suffering
Lost quality of life

In determining damages, it is crucial to consider both immediate and long-term implications that an accident might have on your life. This includes understanding the impact on your ability to work, psychological trauma, and necessary lifestyle adjustments. Calculating these damages accurately requires specialized knowledge and experience, which our team possesses. We work diligently to ensure all aspects of your suffering are translated into fair compensation.

We Represent the People, Not the Powerful

At The Womac Law Firm, we dedicate 100% of our practice to plaintiffs’ personal injury. We only represent injured individuals and the families of those wrongfully killed—never large corporations or insurance companies. We never lose sight of the fact that our clients are real people facing real challenges. Our goal is to help you navigate this difficult time in your life and come out the other side.

Understanding Local Driving Dynamics

In New Orleans, unique driving dynamics influence the frequency and nature of bus accidents. The city’s intricate street layouts and historic roads present challenges, especially for larger vehicles like buses. These factors, combined with frequent tourists unfamiliar with local driving customs, increase the likelihood of incidents. As New Orleans is a cultural hub hosting numerous events year-round, increased traffic during festivals and seasonal influxes can exacerbate traffic congestion, heightening the risk of accidents. Understanding these local factors allows our team at The Womac Law Firm to address each case with a nuanced approach, ensuring that the specific conditions of New Orleans traffic are considered when advocating for our clients.

Road infrastructure plays a pivotal role in bus accident prevalence. Projects by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority to upgrade transit facilities are crucial for safety but also introduce temporary risks such as detours and altered traffic patterns. Frequent construction zones and detour routes demand sharp attention and adaptability from bus operators. Our firm takes into account these infrastructural impacts when building strong claims, ensuring that all contributing elements are evaluated to pursue the appropriate compensation for our clients.

FAQs About Bus Accidents

Can I Pursue a Claim If I’m a Non-Resident Involved in a New Orleans Bus Accident?

Non-residents involved in bus accidents in New Orleans have the right to pursue personal injury claims under Louisiana law, just as residents do. Handling these claims involves understanding both local state law and the potential logistical challenges of representing a non-resident. The Womac Law Firm is equipped to manage these intricacies, employing strategic methods that acknowledge geographical distances yet maintain robust, clear communication with clients regardless of location. Traveling victims can rest assured that our local presence, combined with our determined advocacy, works to handle all aspects of the claim process effectively, ensuring comprehensive representation is readily accessible regardless of a client's home state.

What Are the Common Injuries Resulting from Bus Accidents?

Bus accidents often result in a wide array of injuries, owing to the size and force of these collisions. Common injuries include whiplash, concussions, and other forms of traumatic brain injuries due to the abrupt movements and potential impacts within the vehicle. Lacerations and contusions are also prevalent, alongside more serious outcomes like fractures and internal injuries. The absence of seatbelts in many buses increases the risk of such injuries, as passengers can be thrown from their seats during a collision. Psychological trauma is another significant impact of bus accidents, with victims experiencing anxiety or post-traumatic stress as they recover. Addressing these injuries involves comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment plans. At The Womac Law Firm, we assist clients not only in navigating legal claims but also in connecting with necessary medical professionals to aid their recovery journey.

If you were injured in a New Orleans bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact our team today for a free, confidential case review to learn your options.

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Hear From Our Past Clients

"The best law firm in NOLA!"
I wasn’t sure what to do after being in an accident but decided to allow Womac Law Firm to take the case. I’m so happy I did. Everyone on the case was extremely helpful and supportive from start to finish. I never had to worry about are they working on the case or not. I was informed during the entire process. I was also pleased to meet Mr. Womac himself. Unlike some law firms you work with attorneys under the head attorney but never meet the owner of the firm. You will never be disappointed by choosing to put The Womac on them. The best law firm in NOLA!
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Absolutely amazing place, with absolutely amazing people. Everyone is kind, smiling, and always in a great mood! Soon as you walk in the door, they ask you if you need something to drink are anything else! Everyone knows who you are even if they have seen you only once! My car accident was on November 16th, 2023 that's when I met Mr Womac for the first time! Two days ago I met him for the second time and he knew exactly who I was, professionally trained people in a great environment! I recommend if you are in a car accident PUT THE WOMAC ON THEM YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!
"Mr. Womac prioritized my well-being and recovery."
Mr. Womac prioritized my well-being and recovery. My attorney acted in my best interest to get the best settlement possible.
"I would recommend him to anybody."
I always go Mr. Womac. He is a nice, friendly lawyer. I like how his staff greets you and asks you do you want any beverages. I would recommend him to anybody.
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Great service! The people there are always willing to help. Mr. Womac is a very fun person. Everyone there was very professional, and I will highly recommend him to anyone that is seeking an attorney.
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Definitely pleased with the outcome of my case. My attorney was great and completely communicated with me every step of the way. They got everything I needed to be handled. Satisfied client.
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It’s said that if you want more personal services go with a smaller group like a mom & pops spot. Well at the Law Offices of Womac they've treated me like we've been friends for years. Johnathan & his assistant are attentive, informed, and kind. It has been my pleasure to do business with them & most certainly give them return business in the future. Thanks for everything guys!

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