King County buses are involved in many accidents with motor vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists every year. These crashes can cause major injuries and/or death of the accident victims.
In December 2015, a 94-year-old woman was inside a marked crosswalk proceeding with the walk signal in her favor when she was tragically killed by a King County Metro bus. The King County Metro Bus is constantly changing and expanding, and has become a major public transit system in the Puget Sound region. While the bus system is largely efficient and cheap, the tradeoff is putting you and your loved one’s safety in the hands of public employees and officials who operate and maintain the buses.
Davis Law Group has represented victims of accidents and injuries involving King County Metro Bus. Attorney Chris Davis and his legal staff understand the statute of limitations and other challenges in bringing claims against King County and other public transportation entities.
Our attorneys represent people seriously injured in King County Metro Bus accidents. Contact us today for a free lawyer consultation. Call (206) 727-4000, use the chat feature below or fill out the form on this page.
Causes of Metro Bus Accidents
Although King County Metro has an extensive training and safety program for its drivers, operator error and improper vehicle maintenance is the cause of many accidents.
Driver Error Causes Bus Accidents
Frequently driver error is the primary cause of accidents involving a metro bus. Driver inexperience operating a large vehicle or bus can be a factor in these accidents. Drivers who are not properly trained; are tired from long shifts; or are intoxicated often cause accidents. Drivers are under a great deal of pressure to keep buses on time despite traffic—hasty decisions under pressure can also cause collisions. Buses commonly rear-end other vehicles.
Mechanical Problems / Poor Vehicle Maintenance Cause Bus Accidents
Mechanical failure occurs as a result of improperly maintained buses and installation of defective or damaged parts. Following accidents that involve mass transit buses, investigators will review the bus company’s safety records and maintenance history. Investigations will often demonstrate past history that includes numerous safety violations and failed checkups including brake problems and other maintenance issues.
The Value of a Metro Bus Claim
After a King County Metro Bus crash in Seattle, there are several types of claims for damages for which you might be eligible. Those include:
- A first-party claim. Also known as a no-fault insurance claim, this is typically provided by the victim’s own insurance coverage. Victims with personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can file a claim with their insurance company, and it will cover immediate expenses related to the accident such as medical bills, lost wages, etc.
- A third-party claim. Filed against the party or individual that caused the crash. This may include the bus company or government agency that oversees the busing. These claims must go through the personal injury legal process and are usually fiercely contested by the bus company.
- Wrongful death claim. In the event that a bus accident causes a fatality, the surviving family members may be eligible for a wrongful death claim for damages.
How a Metro Bus Attorney Can Help
After a serious accident involving a King County Metro bus, the insurance company for the county will likely want to settle your case as soon as possible, and for as little money as possible. The less money the insurance company pays out, the more money stays in their pockets.
As a victim, you need time to sort things out. How serious are the injuries? What treatment do you need? How much time from work have you missed? These are all considerations, and the mounting bills are likely stressing you out.
By hiring an experienced bus accident attorney to represent you, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal side of things. An attorney can help you:
- Make sure you get the proper medical care
- Explain the legal process and the statute of limitations
- Establish liability by investigating the accident independently
- Document your injuries to present a convincing case for damages
- Fight for your right to financial compensation
- Negotiate a settlement that makes you whole financially
Hire a Bus Accident Attorney ASAP
While a bus accident can be a harrowing experience, getting help doesn’t have to be hard. The attorneys at Seattle-based Davis Law Group can fight for the compensation you deserve while you give yourself time to heal from your King County Metro Bus incident.
To schedule a consultation with a Seattle bus accident lawyer, give us a call at (206) 727-4000 or fill out the online contact form at the bottom of this page. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning we don’t get paid anything unless you win your case.