If you have been involved in a bus accident and suffered injuries, Fentons could be able to help you claim compensation. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another road user, you may have grounds for a bus accident compensation claim. Our experienced claims specialists can guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the damages you deserve.
Key Facts
- If you were injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
- Claims can be made against the bus company, another driver, or local authorities, depending on who was at fault.
- Bus passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers of other vehicles may all have grounds for a bus passenger accident claim.
- Most bus accident compensation claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning there are no upfront legal fees.
- Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have three years from the accident date to make a bus injury claim.
- Understanding Bus Accident Claims
- Common Causes of Bus Accidents
- Typical Injuries Sustained in Bus Accidents
- What Should I Do After a Bus Accident?
- Can I Claim Compensation If I Was Injured on a Bus?
- What Kind of Damages Could I Claim for a Bus Accident?
- Who Is Liable in a Bus Accident?
- What Evidence Do I Need for a Bus Accident Claim?
- Eligibility Criteria for Making a Bus Accident Claim
- How Long Do I Have to Make a Bus Accident Claim?
- Are Bus Accident Claims No Win No Fee?
- Fentons Can Help You Make a Bus Accident Claim
Understanding Bus Accident Claims
A bus accident claim is a type of personal injury claim that allows those harmed in public transport accidents to seek compensation for their losses. Whether you were a passenger, a pedestrian who has had an accident, cyclist, or another driver, if the accident was not your fault, you could be eligible for compensation.
Bus accident compensation claims can be made for minor incidents, such as sudden stops causing whiplash, or major collisions resulting in severe injuries. Compensation can cover both financial and non-financial losses, helping victims recover from the impact of the accident.
Not sure if you are eligible? Call us today and let Fentons assess your case for free.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Understanding what caused a bus accident is crucial when making a bus crash claim. Many incidents result from negligence, whether by the bus driver, another road user, or poor road maintenance.
- Driver negligence: Speeding, reckless driving, or failing to signal can lead to serious accidents.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Mechanical failures due to inadequate servicing can cause unexpected crashes.
- Third-party road users: Careless drivers, cyclists, or motorcyclists can contribute to accidents.
- Hazardous road conditions: Potholes, debris, or poor weather can create dangerous driving situations.
- Abrupt braking or acceleration: Sudden movements can cause passengers to fall and sustain injuries.
If you believe one of these factors caused your accident, contact Fentons now to discuss your options.
Typical Injuries Sustained in Bus Accidents
A bus accident injury can range from mild to severe, depending on the nature of the accident. Even seemingly minor incidents can lead to long-term health complications.
- Whiplash: A common injury caused by sudden jolts, leading to neck pain and stiffness.
- Fractures and broken bones: A high-impact crash can result in serious injuries to arms, legs, or ribs.
- Head injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries may occur due to sudden impact or falls.
- Soft tissue damage: Bruises, sprains, and muscle tears are common in bus accidents.
- Psychological trauma: Anxiety, PTSD, and emotional distress can be included in a bus accident injury claim.
Fentons can help you get the compensation you need for recovery. Call us today for free legal advice.
What Should I Do After a Bus Accident?
Taking the right steps after a bus accident can strengthen your bus accident compensation claim and ensure you receive fair damages, maximising your chances of success.
- Seek medical attention: Get medical care, even for minor injuries, to document your condition.
- Report the accident: Notify the bus company, police, or local transport authority.
- Collect evidence: Take photos, obtain witness details, and keep a record of the event.
- Keep receipts and records: Save medical bills, travel costs, and records of lost earnings.
- Speak to a claims expert: Contact Fentons for professional advice on how to make a bus accident claim.
The sooner you act, the stronger your claim will be. Call Fentons today on 0333 000 0723.
Can I Claim Compensation If I Was Injured on a Bus?
Yes, you may be able to make a bus passenger accident claim if you suffered injuries due to a bus driver’s negligence or external factors beyond your control. Liability for the accident may lie with the bus operator, another vehicle driver, or a local council if poor road conditions played a role. Below are some example UK compensation payouts:
Severe arm injuries: £117,360 to £159,770 – Covers cases where the arm remains intact but is significantly impaired, nearly as debilitating as an amputation. This includes major nerve damage such as a severe brachial plexus injury, resulting in loss of function and chronic pain.
Short-term paralysis: Up to £60,210 – Applies when a victim experiences temporary paralysis but passes away from an unrelated condition soon after the incident. While compensation is reduced in such cases, an element of immediate financial relief (‘front-loading’) is factored into the award.
Serious shoulder injuries: £15,580 to £23,430 – Includes cases involving a dislocated shoulder with nerve damage affecting grip and sensation, as well as fractures in the upper arm leading to movement restrictions. Long-term complications from rotator cuff surgery or chronic soft tissue damage that cause ongoing pain and mobility issues also fall within this range.
Whiplash Tariff Table
Table A Amount | Table B Amount | Injury Duration |
---|---|---|
£240 | £260 | Up to 3 months |
£495 | £520 | Between 3 and 6 months |
£840 | £895 | Between 6 and 9 months |
£1,320 | £1,390 | Between 9 and 12 months |
£2,040 | £2,725 | Between 12 and 15 months |
£3,005 | £3,700 | Between 15 and 18 months |
£4,215 | £4,345 | Between 18 and 24 months |
What Kind of Damages Could I Claim for a Bus Accident?
If you have suffered injuries in a bus accident, you may be entitled to claim compensation for a range of damages. A successful bus accident compensation claim can help cover both financial and non-financial losses, ensuring you receive the support you need to recover fully. The specific damages you can claim depend on the severity of your injuries and how the road traffic accident has affected your life.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital treatment, physiotherapy, prescriptions, and other healthcare costs.
- Loss of Earnings: If you have been unable to work due to your injuries, you can claim for lost wages and future earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-financial compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Coverage for therapy, counselling, and specialist treatment needed for recovery.
- Travel Expenses: Reimbursement for transport costs related to hospital visits and medical appointments.
- Home and Vehicle Adaptations: If your injuries require changes to your living environment, you may be able to claim for necessary modifications.
- Care and Support Costs: If you need assistance with daily activities due to your injuries, you can claim for professional care or support from family members.
If you are unsure what damages you may be entitled to, Fentons can assess your case and help maximise your bus accident compensation claim. Contact us today to discuss your options and start your claim process.
Who Is Liable in a Bus Accident?
Liability in a bus accident depends on who was responsible for causing the incident. Various parties may be held accountable, and determining fault is crucial to a successful bus accident compensation claim. Liability may rest with:
- The Bus Driver: If the driver was negligent, such as by speeding, failing to follow traffic laws, or driving while distracted, they or their employer could be responsible.
- The Bus Company: If poor maintenance or lack of proper driver training contributed to the accident, the bus company may be liable.
- Another Road User: If another driver, cyclist, or motorcyclist caused the crash through reckless or dangerous driving, they may be responsible.
- The Local Authority: If the accident was caused by poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or unmarked hazards, the local authority may be held accountable.
- The Bus Manufacturer: If a mechanical failure caused the crash due to a defect, the manufacturer may be at fault.
Determining who is liable requires strong evidence, including witness statements, CCTV footage, and police reports. If you are unsure who is responsible for your accident, contact Fentons today. Our expert claims specialists can investigate your case and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
What Evidence Do I Need for a Bus Accident Claim?
Strong evidence is crucial for a successful bus accident compensation claim. The more documentation you can provide, the stronger your case will be. Comprehensive records help demonstrate liability and the full extent of your injuries, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Medical reports: Proof of injury severity and treatment received.
- Accident photos: Visual evidence of the crash scene and injuries.
- Witness statements: Testimonies supporting your version of events.
- Police or incident reports: Official documentation of the accident.
Eligibility Criteria for Making a Bus Accident Claim
To make a successful bus accident compensation claim, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure that claims are valid and have a strong legal basis.
- The Accident Must Have Occurred Within the Last Three Years: Under the Limitation Act 1980, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the accident date.
- You Must Have Sustained an Injury: Physical injuries, psychological trauma, or financial losses resulting from the accident must be provable.
- The Accident Must Have Been Caused by Someone Else’s Negligence: Liability must be established, whether it is the bus driver, the bus company, another road user, or a local authority.
- Sufficient Evidence Must Be Available: Police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographic evidence will strengthen your claim.
- Children and Vulnerable Adults May Have Extended Time Limits: If the claimant was under 18 at the time of the accident, the three-year limit starts from their 18th birthday.
If you meet these eligibility criteria and want to proceed with your claim, contact Fentons today for a free assessment of your case. Our legal experts can help determine your chances of success and guide you through the claims process.
How Long Do I Have to Make a Bus Accident Claim?
Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have three years from the accident date to file a claim. This deadline is crucial, as failing to act within this period could mean losing your right to compensation. However, exceptions may apply, such as cases involving children or individuals lacking mental capacity. If you are unsure about your eligibility or the time frame applicable to your situation, contact Fentons today for expert advice and assistance in making your bus accident compensation claim.
Are Bus Accident Claims No Win No Fee?
Yes, most bus accident claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis, reducing financial risks for claimants. This means you can pursue a bus accident compensation claim without paying upfront legal fees. If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not owe anything. This approach ensures access to justice, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle your case.
Fentons is dedicated to securing the best outcome for claimants, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their injuries and financial losses. Contact us today to discuss your eligibility and start your claim with expert support.
Fentons Can Help You Make a Bus Accident Claim
Fentons has over 30 years of experience assisting claimants with bus accident compensation claims. We provide free legal advice and handle claims on a No Win No Fee basis. You do not need to pay anything upfront, and if your claim is unsuccessful, you will not owe us a penny.
Our expert claims team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. If you have suffered a bus accident injury, do not delay—contact Fentons today. To find out if you can claim, call 0333 000 0723 or contact us online.
Bus Accident Claims FAQ
Can I Claim If the Bus Accident Was Caused by Another Vehicle?
Yes, you can make a bus accident compensation claim against the other driver’s insurer. Contact Fentons to find out how we can help.
How Long Does a Bus Accident Claim Take?
It varies but can take months to over a year, depending on case complexity. The sooner you start, the better.
Do I Need a Solicitor to Make a Bus Accident Claim?
No, a claims management firm like Fentons can help you with your claim. Call us today for expert legal advice.
Useful Links About Bus Accidents
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA): Provides guidance on reporting incidents involving public service vehicles, including buses and coaches.
NHS: Provides comprehensive information on whiplash, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
GOV.UK: Describes the skills, knowledge, and understanding required to be a safe and responsible driver of category D vehicles, detailing the national standard for bus and coach drivers.