Gilbert Bus Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a bus crash in Gilbert, Arizona, or the surrounding areas, you could be entitled to compensation for your losses. Whether your crash involved a private charter, school bus, or Valley Metro bus, a bus accident can have devastating consequences. Therefore, a Gilbert bus accident lawyer from Luis P. Guerra, L.L.C. is eager to help you navigate your claims process and hold negligent bus companies, drivers, and entities accountable.

Although Gilbert, Arizona, is generally considered to be a safe and family-friendly area, the community still grapples with significant public safety issues. According to 2023 Census data, the population was significantly growing and had a size of over 275,000 people. On top of this, commuter dependency and expanding traffic factors have brought public transit safety to the forefront of city issues.

Most commuters in Gilbert (63.4%) are driving alone to work. This is increasing the number of vehicles on the road and, therefore, the likelihood of multi-vehicle collisions that involve buses. The average commute time is 26.1 minutes, which is slightly higher than the Arizona State average. This means both public transit vehicles and drivers are on the road for longer periods, especially during peak congestion hours on major streets, such as:

• Gilbert Road
• Val Vista Drive
• Loop 202
• Williams Field Road
• E Baseline Road

These local roads tend to be particularly dangerous for buses because of their limited ability to maneuver and their sheer size. This can lead to bus accidents that commonly involve multiple victims, complex issues with liability, and even government agencies.

Therefore, if you’ve been in a bus crash, it’s crucial to work with a legal representative who understands the traffic patterns in Gilbert’s local legislation and who has a successful track record of handling aggressive insurance companies.

Bus accidents in Gilbert can lead to devastating injuries. Even if the bus is going slowly, the size and weight of the vehicles involved and the lack of seat belts can still cause serious harm. The intelligent legal team at our local firm has experience helping recover optimal compensation for injuries like internal bleeding, severe disfigurement and lacerations, spinal injuries, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries.

If your child was involved in a bus accident, we can also ensure that their psychological trauma is adequately accounted for in your settlement. We also handle wrongful death claims if your loved one has been tragically killed in a catastrophic bus crash.

An experienced attorney from our firm can go over the details of your accident and launch a deep investigation into your case to determine potentially liable parties in your Gilbert bus accident. There may be multiple liable parties implicated in your case, such as the bus driver, the bus company, government agencies, bus maintenance contractors, or bus part manufacturers.

If we find that your claim involves a government entity like Valley Metro or the Gilbert Unified School District, we can help you navigate the specific notice procedures and tighter filing deadlines under Arizona law.

Q: What Should I Do After a Bus Accident in Gilbert?

A:  After a bus accident in Gilbert, you should immediately prioritize your health and safety. Call law enforcement and get a copy of the accident report, and, if able, collect evidence at the scene of the crime, including photos, videos, and information about those involved and witnesses. Even if you believe you are not hurt, it’s crucial to seek experienced medical attention so that they can document your injuries and identify any underlying conditions.

Q: Can I Sue the City or a School District if a Public Bus Was Involved?

A: Yes, you may be able to sue the city or a school district if a public bus was involved in your crash. It’s important to note, however, that these cases have stringent deadlines and strict procedural requirements per Arizona law. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to work with an experienced attorney who can help you file a notice of claim and bring forward a lawsuit – should it be necessary.

Q: What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive?

A: The type of compensation you may be entitled to for a bus crash includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages may include medical expenses, lost income, lost earning potential, at-home care costs, and property damage. Non-economic damages could involve physical pain and emotional distress. If you suffer from permanent injuries, long-term damages can also be taken into account.

Q: How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

A: The amount of time you typically have to file a personal injury claim in Arizona is 2 years. It’s important to note, however, that any claims against government entities need to be initiated with a notice of claim that is submitted within 180 days of the date of the accident. A dedicated attorney can help you navigate requirements and timelines to ensure your right to file for compensation is protected.

Q: What if My Child Was Injured on a School Bus?

A: If your child was injured on a school bus in Gilbert, you may still be able to pursue a claim against the bus driver or the school district, depending on the details of the case. As such cases are commonly highly sensitive, especially as they may involve long-term psychological effects and child trauma, it’s important to work with an attorney who has extensive experience successfully handling such cases.

Bus accidents are tragic incidents that can change everything when you least see it coming. At Luis P. Guerra, L.L.C., our dedicated Gilbert bus accident lawyer team is here to advocate for bus accident victims and their families in the Gilbert and Maricopa County area. We have a demonstrated successful track record and are eager to apply our skills and experience to your case. Contact us today to get started discussing your case details. We fight for you.