Springfield, IL Bus Accident Attorneys
Aggressively Seeking Justice for the Injured in Sangamon County
Experiencing a bus accident can be a life-altering event. In addition to catastrophic physical injuries, bus crashes often inflict devastating emotional and financial hardships on victims and their loved ones, leaving them in pain and unsure of where to turn. If you were injured in a bus accident in Springfield, don’t pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Haxel Law can vigorously protect your rights while advocating for maximum compensation on your behalf.
Our firm understands the unique challenges that come with a wrongful injury, which is why our bus accident lawyers are committed to recovering compensation for the wrongfully injured in Sangamon County. Our attorneys can work diligently to recover a fair settlement. With decades of experience and a reputation for recovering favorable verdicts for our clients, you can trust our time-tested trial lawyers to aggressively pursue justice, freeing you to focus on healing.
If you were harmed in a bus accident in Springfield, our lawyers can aggressively pursue justice. Call (217) 215-4166 to schedule a complimentary case evaluation.
Dangerous Intersections for Bus Accidents in Springfield
Even when every precaution is taken, accidents are inevitable. Staying vigilant in high-risk areas for bus accidents in Sangamon County can help Illinoisans stay safe on the road and avoid potential hazards. According to the Springfield Police, some of the most dangerous intersections for bus accidents include:
- South Veterans Pkwy and Wabash Ave
- North Dirksen Pkwy and Sangamon Ave
- South MacArthur Blvd and Lawrence Ave
- South Veterans Pkwy and Lindbergh Blvd
- South Veterans Pkwy and Old Jacksonville Rd
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Driver negligence: Some examples include speeding, distracted driving, and failure to follow traffic laws.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, construction zones, and inadequate signage can all contribute to bus accidents.
- Vehicle maintenance issues: Faulty brakes, worn tires, and other maintenance issues can lead to collisions.
- Lack of proper training: Bus drivers must undergo thorough training in order to safely operate these large vehicles on busy roads.
- Inadequate safety measures: Buses should have functional seatbelts and other safety features to protect passengers in the event of an accident.
Common Injuries Resulting from Bus Accidents
Due to the size and weight of buses, bus accidents often lead to devastating injuries for victims. Some common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Cuts and lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal injuries, such as bleeding or organ damage
Recoverable Damages in a Bus Accident Claim
Depending on the specifics of the case, various types of compensation may be available in a bus accident claim. Common types of recoverable damages include:
- Economic damages: These include direct financial losses, such as hospital bills, ongoing and future medical treatment, prescription medication costs, property damage, lost wages, and loss of earning capacity.
- Non-economic damages: These include indirect subjective losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, scarring and disfigurement, and loss of consortium.
In certain cases, the court may also award punitive damages to punish the defendant for extreme recklessness and deter repeat behavior in the future. Our lawyers can evaluate your case with a practiced legal eye to calculate total damages and prevent you from settling for less than you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 217-215-4166 today!
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Who Is Liable for a Bus Accident in Illinois?
Depending on the unique circumstances of the accident, various parties may be liable for damages. Common liable parties include:
- Third-party drivers: If another motorist contributed to the accident by acting negligently, they may be liable for damages.
- Bus drivers: If the bus driver fails to pay attention to the road or comply with traffic laws, they may be responsible for injuries resulting from the bus accident.
- Bus companies: Bus companies may be liable if they contributed to the accident by neglecting proper vehicle maintenance or failing to enforce safety protocols.
- Manufacturers: The manufacturer may be liable if a faulty part or defective equipment, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, contributed to the bus accident.
- Municipalities or government entities: Local government bodies may be liable if they contributed to the accident by failing to maintain safe roadways or traffic systems, such as inadequate signage or poor road conditions.
Remember, suffering injuries in a bus accident isn’t enough to recover damages. Because the plaintiff bears the burden of proof in a bus accident lawsuit, securing experienced representation is a must to identify liable parties, prove negligence, and pursue maximum compensation.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Bus Accident Claim in Illinois?In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a bus accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file your claim within this deadline can result in the loss of eligibility for benefits, making it crucial to seek sound counsel as soon as possible after a crash. Our attorneys are well-versed in Illinois law to help you file your claim promptly, completely, and correctly.
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I Was Injured in a Bus Crash on I-57. What Should I Do?
Interstate 55 is one of the most dangerous highways in Sangamon County. If you were harmed in a bus accident on I-55, here are some critical steps to take:
- Seek medical care: Even if you lack obvious injuries, seeking immediate medical attention is a top priority to rule out serious underlying injuries and create official documentation of your injuries.
- Report the accident: If no one else has done so, report the accident to local law enforcement. Be sure to obtain a copy of the police report if possible.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, including damages to both vehicles and any visible injuries.
- Collect information: Exchange contact and insurance information with other involved parties, including any witnesses who saw the bus accident occur.
- Don’t admit fault: Refrain from giving statements or admitting fault to insurance adjusters without first consulting with a lawyer.
- Secure legal representation: Seek legal counsel from an experienced bus accident attorney. Your lawyer can guide your steps wisely and help you exercise your rights while keeping you informed throughout your case.
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I Was Hit by a City Bus on Dirksen Parkway. Do I Need a Lawyer?
An unexpected bus accident can upend your life in a heartbeat. While it may be tempting to save money by forgoing your right to legal representation, consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer can mean the difference between recovering sufficient compensation for your injuries and walking away with less than you deserve. Our attorneys can assist with:
- Investigating the accident: We can help you strengthen your claim with compelling evidence by thoroughly investigating the accident, interviewing potential eyewitnesses, and arranging expert testimonies if necessary to prove negligence.
- Filing a claim: Navigating the legal complexities of the claims process can be tricky. We can help you file your claim correctly and within the appropriate filing deadline to maintain your eligibility for damages.
- Negotiating with insurers: Insurance companies have a reputation for evading just payouts to protect their bottom line. With years of former insurance defense experience, our lawyers are familiar with the manipulative tactics used by insurers to protect against lowball settlement offers.
- Representing you at trial: We never avoid litigation when it is the best solution. Our highly skilled litigators can represent your best interests at trial if necessary to pursue maximum compensation and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Turn to an Injury Firm with Decades of Experience
Seeking sound counsel is paramount to exercising your rights after a wrongful injury. At Haxel Law, we understand the high stakes and financial hardships that come with a wrongful injury. Our firm is committed to maximizing the value of your claim by holding negligent parties accountable. If you suffered preventable harm in Sangamon County, put decades of experience in your corner by turning to our injury law firm.
We take pride in delivering high-quality representation tailored to your unique legal circumstances. Our attorneys have decades of experience and a winning track record of results, giving you peace of mind that your case is in trusted hands.
Injured in a bus accident in Springfield? Contact us online to discuss your case with our compassionate advocates.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.
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Marty Haxel provided exceptional help with a complex work men's comp case, made our part seem small. Would refer him to anyone that needs help fighting the big guys!- David E.