Should I Hire an Attorney after a Bus Accident?

While California’s vast bus networks represent a reliable way to get from A to B, even these dependable carriers are involved in accidents. Unfortunately, it’s almost always the passengers who foot the bill, left to fork out thousands of dollars for medical treatments, replacement services, and cover wages lost while recovering from their injuries. 

If you were hurt in a bus accident, you might be wondering whether it’s worth hiring an attorney to help with your personal injury claim. While it’s possible to oversee your case on your own, a lone-wolf approach could leave you at risk of making mistakes that might cost you a fair settlement. 

In this article, we discuss four ways an attorney might be able to assist with your bus accident case: 

Investigating the Wreck 

When you hire a personal injury attorney, he or she will usually conduct a comprehensive investigation into the collision. Their goal is to find proof that might help corroborate your version of events.  

However, as much of this evidence is time-sensitive, you will have to act quickly before it’s no longer available. In other words, the sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner he or she can return to the scene to ensure that such proof is preserved. 

Approximating a Fair Settlement 

Before you enter negotiations, you will need to take stock of your damages to ensure that you aren’t lured into accepting a low-ball offer that doesn’t account for all your costs. A lawyer can review the available evidence and work with expert witnesses if necessary to help estimate reasonable compensation for the losses you’ve suffered. Recoverable damages can include medical expenses, repairs, replacement services, lost income, and intangible losses such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment in life, and emotional distress. 

Overseeing Negotiations 

Negotiating a claim can be a time-consuming undertaking robbing you of hours that are better spent focusing on your health. Thankfully, when you enlist the services of an attorney, he or she can oversee this process on your behalf. 

An experienced lawyer is intimately familiar with the types of tactics used by insurance companies to undervalue claims, so you can rest assured that they will be adequately prepared to deal with any issues that might arise. Additionally, if the insurer is unwilling to agree to a fair settlement, your attorney can help prepare your case for court and advocate for you throughout litigation and trial. 

Guiding You Through Proceedings 

Personal injury proceedings can be incredibly difficult to navigate alone. From indecipherable legal terminology to arcane laws, the claims process can quickly start to feel overwhelming. 

Fortunately, an attorney can help you make sense of the days ahead by providing guidance, answers, and support at each new step. A responsive lawyer will also make sure to return your phone calls promptly so that your questions never go unanswered. 

Request a Free Case Review with a California Bus Accident Attorney 

From putting an immense strain on your finances to affecting your emotional well-being, a serious bus accident can derail your life in several ways. Hiring an attorney can not only help lighten the load during these trying times but also give you round-the-clock access to reliable support and guidance. 

At Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, we pride ourselves on providing tailored representation to all of our clients. As such, you can rest assured that your case will get the attention it deserves from the moment you pick up the phone. Dial 1-800-GO-HARRIS or head to our contact page HERE to request a free consultation with a California bus accident attorney