When embarking on short-distance road trips or city tours in groups, people often hire charter bus companies. Although professional drivers operate these private bus services, accidents can occur due to collisions, mechanical failures, and other factors.
Getting involved in such accidents can make you panic. Although fear is a natural reaction, you need to pull yourself together and confirm if you’re hurt. Your next actions can influence your safety and the aftermath. Keep reading to discover the best course of action after a charter bus accident in the U.S.
Conduct a Physical Check
The first thing you should do is to assess your physical condition. Look out for bruises, cuts, and swelling. While organ damage, internal bleeding, or concussions aren’t visible, you may feel dizzy, weak, or nauseous. Call out for help if you’re seriously injured, as sudden movements may aggravate your condition.
However, if you’re stable and uninjured, you can help other passengers with physical checks. The accident may cause fuel leaks or other conditions that make the bus unsafe. In such cases, move to a secure location.
Report the Incident Immediately
Report the accident by dialing 911 or the local emergency number if you’re visiting a city. If you’re in pain, someone else can make the call. After asking some questions, the responder will send police officials and paramedics to the accident scene.
While the police will create an official report, you should still contact the bus company. Inform them of the incident and have them draft an internal accident report. You might need to file a legal claim later, so get the reference or record number. If the bus company attempts to deny knowledge of the accident, the reference number will serve as proof.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Collect witness statements from onlookers and fellow passengers to provide narratives from multiple perspectives, if necessary. Be sure to get visual evidence to contextualize these statements. For example, if the charter bus is involved in a crash on Ball Road while en route to Disneyland, capture nearby landmarks.
Record the scene, the state of the bus, and the injuries sustained. These details frame a clear picture of the incidence, which may be necessary for investigation. Bag up torn clothes and any personal effects damaged during the accident.
Document Your Experience
After reporting an accident, the company’s administrative officials, insurance agents, and law enforcement authorities may question you severally. To remember details and maintain the same account, write a detailed narration. It should cover the time, place, order of events, and a clear description of bodily harm. Keep all medical records, diagnoses, and payment receipts as proof of ongoing impact. If your injuries are severe, monitor and document your symptoms and treatment processes.
Contact a Specialized Attorney
You can file a legal claim to seek compensation for your injuries. However, this process is complex as insurance companies often dispute and make lowball offers. To avoid the stress of negotiating with insurers, you can hire one of the best Florida personal injury lawyers. If you’re not in Florida, a nearby specialized attorney will do. They can use their experience and expertise to determine liability and apply the best strategies to maximize your compensation.
Endnote
Albeit rare, charter bus accidents can occur. If you’re involved in one, confirm whether you’re hurt, then report the accident. You can then collect various forms of evidence, document your experience, and contact an attorney for legal guidance.