HAWAII BUS ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS

NAVIGATING COMPLEX BUS INJURY CLAIMS

Every year, Americans take up to 4.6 billion trips on buses, as well as other forms of public transportation — and still more take private and chartered bus trips, too. From the signature yellow school bus fleets to ever-expanding mass transit systems, more and more citizens are relying on these massive vehicles for business, school, and pleasure with every passing year.

While bus accidents may not be as common as other motor vehicle crashes, however, one recent study found that up to 63,000 buses are involved in a major accident each year, leaving many of the occupants with damaging and painful injuries. Here at Davis Levin Livingston, we understand how to pursue injury claims in the event of a complex and overwhelming bus accident, and fight for the fair recovery you deserve.

Do you need to speak with one of our skilled Hawaii bus accident lawyers? Call (808) 740-0633 today for more information.

Who Is Liable in a Bus Crash?

Although you might assume that the operator of the bus or a negligent third party will always be found financially responsible in a bus accident, the truth is that these cases are far more complex to litigate than the standard car accident. Hawaii is a no-fault state, which means that the vehicle’s insurance company will be primarily responsible for covering injuries after an accident. However, there could also be any number of other parties and organizations involved in your bus accident claim, ranging from private bus companies to entire school districts to local government branches.

Additionally, the law treats buses differently depending on whether they are “common carriers” or privately operated vehicles. Because public and city buses are part of America’s vast mass transportation network, they are specially regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and required to observe higher safety standards – and carry insurance coverage to match. Private carriers, including charter or tour buses, may not be held to the same standards. That can make it more challenging to get the compensation you need after an accident.

Hawaii Bus Licensing Requirements

In order to drive a bus in Hawaii, a person must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Applications for a CDL are not accepted from those who are under 21 years of age. A CDL application needs to be filled out, and you must take or supply a photo, your current driver’s license, social security card, and birth certificate. A medical report from the Department of transportation is also necessary and drivers must also pass a written examination. Meeting these requirements will qualify you for a CDL permit which is good for 6 months and allows the driver to drive commercial vehicles under the supervision of a driver who holds a CDL license. A road test is then administered when the driver feels he is prepared.

To drive a commercial bus, a driver must obtain a “P” endorsement which will allow him to carry passengers. Those who want to drive school buses also need an “S” endorsement in order to driver school children. School bus drivers must also pass a background check conducted by the police.

School Bus Dangers

One of the main concerns regarding school buses is that the majority of them are not equipped with seat belts despite the overwhelming evidence that wearing seat belts save lives. In fact, there have been few safety developments, and the school bus is basically the same as it was in 1977. School buses can also be very noisy and create an environment where the driver could be easily distracted. There are also times when the students may exhibit threatening behaviors, and without adequate security, the bus driver is often forced into becoming a disciplinarian taking his attention away from the road.

These obstacles play a large role in the injuries of over 10,000 kids who are involved in school bus accidents each year. There is also plenty of danger outside of the bus, as nearly three-quarters of fatalities happen to people who are in vehicles other than the bus, and about 1/5 are pedestrians.

Commercial Bus Dangers

Commercial buses are primarily either charter buses used for tourism purposes or part of the public transportation system. In Honolulu, the most common concerns surrounding the Oahu Transit Services (OTS) which most refer to as “the bus.” One major concern with the bus is that a large portion of riders are senior citizens who can easily be injured because of the nature of how the bus moves throughout the city.

Driver actions such as making sharp turns, going over curbs, abrupt braking or accelerating, moving before passengers are safely seated, or closing doors on passengers that have not completely made it on or off the bus all contribute to the sort of turbulence that results in falls. These dangers are most prevalent in seniors, but can potentially happen to anyone riding the bus.

How an Attorney Can Help You with Your Hawaii Bus Accident Case

When you're injured in a bus accident, navigating the legal complexities of your case can be challenging. Our experienced Hawaii bus accident attorneys at Davis Levin Livingston are dedicated to helping you through each step, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best possible chance at fair compensation. Here’s how we can help:

• Gathering Evidence: Evidence is crucial in proving liability and securing compensation in a bus accident claim. Our attorneys will collect and review all relevant documentation, such as police reports, accident scene photos, witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records. We also consult accident reconstruction specialists if needed to build a strong, compelling case.
• Identifying Liable Parties: Bus accidents often involve multiple liable parties, including bus drivers, bus companies, vehicle manufacturers, and government entities. Our team conducts a thorough investigation to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable. In Hawaii, specific rules apply depending on whether the bus is operated by a private company or a government agency, adding layers of complexity to liability determinations.
• Calculating Damages: Determining the full extent of your losses is essential for pursuing fair compensation. We work closely with medical professionals and financial experts to calculate your damages, covering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and future care expenses. Our attorneys understand that injuries from bus accidents can have long-term consequences, and we’re committed to ensuring you receive compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
• Navigating Insurance Negotiations: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and they may use tactics that can hinder your recovery. Our attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurers, handling all communications to protect your interests. We fight to ensure that insurance companies offer fair compensation and don’t take advantage of accident victims, particularly when government-owned buses are involved.
• Representation Against Government Entities and Large Transportation Companies: Claims involving public buses and government entities are subject to specific procedural requirements, such as shorter filing deadlines and additional legal hurdles. Our attorneys are well-versed in the regulations that apply to Hawaii’s public transportation system and can handle these added complexities. Whether your case involves a city bus or a private transportation company, we have the experience to navigate the legal system effectively, holding all responsible parties accountable.

By working with our skilled Hawaii bus accident lawyers, you gain a dedicated advocate who can handle every aspect of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. At Davis Levin Livingston, we are committed to pursuing justice and helping you achieve the compensation you need to move forward after a traumatic bus accident.

Dedicated to Helping You Recover

When you’ve been hurt in a complex bus accident, it can be overwhelming, and leave you wondering where to turn for assistance. Our Hawaii bus accident team at Davis Levin Livingston is here to hear your story and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.

With 40 years of combined experience and millions won on behalf of injury victims, our award-winning attorneys know how to get results, even in incredibly complicated bus crash cases. Known for our relentless pursuit of justice, we will handle every aspect of your case so that you can focus on healing.

To schedule your complimentary case evaluation, just call (808) 740-0633 and get assistance from our responsive staff.