The size and weight of a bus make collisions especially dangerous, and they often result in serious trauma and extensive financial burdens for everyone involved. Because of this danger, bus drivers are generally prohibited from consuming alcohol before getting behind the wheel. Unfortunately, drunk driving bus accidents in McAllen still happen and cause severe injuries to passengers, motorists, and pedestrians.
The team of bike wreck attorneys at KGS Law PLLC is here to help victims of these types of crashes pursue justice and the compensation they need for their recovery. If you have been hurt, an attorney from our firm could work to identify all responsible parties and represent your interests in the legal process.
Determining Fault in a Drunk Driving Bus Crash
Under Texas Transportation Code § 522.081, commercial drivers may not operate a bus with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 percent or greater, and violating this statute can form the basis of liability. However, responsibility for a bus crash in McAllen could go beyond the intoxicated driver. The bus company may also be at fault if it failed to enforce safety rules, ignored warning signs, or hired drivers without adequate background checks.
An experienced attorney could examine driver records, training policies, and company safety practices to build a comprehensive case. By holding both drivers and their employers accountable, victims have a stronger chance of recovering compensation for their injuries.
What Are Some Common Injuries in a Bus Collision?
The force of being hit by a large and heavy bus can cause catastrophic damage. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or multiple fractures requiring surgery and long-term rehabilitation. These injuries can permanently affect a person’s ability to work and live independently.
The emotional consequences can be equally significant. Survivors often struggle with depression or anxiety following such a traumatic event. That is why people in McAllen who have suffered injuries in a bus collision caused by driving under the influence are entitled to seek damages for both economic and non-economic losses. With the support of an attorney, victims can pursue recovery that reflects their immediate and future needs.
Filing a Drunk Driving Bus Accident Claim
For people injured in a crash caused by a drunk bus driver in McAllen, retaining legal representation is essential for a successful claim. A skilled lawyer could handle negotiating a settlement with the bus company’s insurance carrier. If the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, an attorney is prepared to bring the case to court.
However, like other states, Texas has a strict time limit for filing a lawsuit. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, victims have two years from the date of the crash to file their claim, and it is very difficult to recover compensation if it is not filed within this window. Seeking legal counsel as soon as possible is critical to preserving a victim’s right to recover compensation for their injuries.
Speak With a McAllen Attorney After a DUI Bus Crash
Drunk driving bus accidents in McAllen can cause catastrophic injuries, and if you or a loved one has been hurt by an intoxicated bus operator, come and talk with us about your legal options. An experienced lawyer from KGS Law PLLC could help you pursue compensation that addresses both your immediate costs and long-term care.
We are committed to advocating for your interests, providing trusted legal guidance, and working to secure justice. Contact KGS Law PLLC today to learn how our attorneys could help you get the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.