Houston Bus Accident Attorney 

Recoverable Damages in a Successful Bus Accident Claim

When you file a personal injury claim after a bus crash, the goal is to be "made whole" through financial compensation. In Texas, these damages are categorized into economic, non-economic, and, in rare cases, exemplary damages. A Houston bus accident lawyer must precisely calculate these figures to ensure your settlement covers both your current bills and your future needs.

Economic Damages

These are the tangible, out-of-pocket financial losses that can be documented with receipts, bills, and employment records:

• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and any future medical care such as physical therapy or medical equipment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for the time you missed at work due to your injuries.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous career or working at all, you may recover the future income you would have earned.
• Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle if you were in a separate car during the collision.

Non-Economic Damages

These address the intangible, "human" costs of an accident that do not come with a price tag:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort caused by the crash and subsequent treatments.
• Mental Anguish: This covers the emotional toll, including anxiety, depression, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) common after a major transit disaster.
• Physical Disfigurement and Impairment: If the accident resulted in permanent scarring or a loss of mobility/function.
• Loss of Consortium: For the spouse of an injured victim, compensating for the loss of companionship, affection, and support.

Exemplary (Punitive) Damages

While compensatory damages are meant to help the victim, punitive damages are meant to punish the defendant. In Texas, these are only awarded if a bus accident attorney in Houston can prove by "clear and convincing evidence" that the defendant acted with gross negligence, fraud, or malice. For example, if a bus company knowingly allowed a driver with multiple DUIs to operate a vehicle, punitive damages may be pursued to deter such reckless behavior in the future.

What to Do If You Are in a Bus Crash  

Being involved in a bus accident can be traumatic and confusing. Whether you're a passenger on the bus or in another vehicle, knowing the right steps to take immediately after the crash can protect your health and your rights here in Texas.

Consider the following steps you should take: 

• Stay at the scene and check for injuries. Assess yourself and those around you for injuries, even if they seem minor. Some injuries, especially those involving the neck, back, or head, may not be obvious right away due to shock and adrenaline.
• Call 911 and cooperate with first responders. Report the accident to emergency services immediately, even if injuries appear minor. When police arrive, provide accurate information for the report but avoid making statements about fault or apologizing.
• Document the scene thoroughly. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and visible injuries if it's safe. Record the bus number, company name, and license plate information of all vehicles involved, and gather contact information from other passengers and witnesses.
• Seek immediate medical attention. Visit an emergency room or your doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Medical records connecting the accident and your injuries are important for future insurance claims or legal actions.
• Report the incident to the bus company and your insurance. Notify your insurance provider about the accident within 24 hours. If it was a public transit bus, claims against government entities in Texas have strict deadlines for notification.
• Preserve evidence and start a paper trail. Keep all accident-related documents, including medical bills, prescriptions, and correspondence with insurance companies. Keep a daily journal documenting pain levels, limitations, and how your injuries affect your daily life.
• Consider consulting our firm. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies or accepting quick settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries. Our attorney can communicate with insurers on your behalf and advise you on what to share with insurance representatives or on social media. Texas has specific laws for bus accidents, especially those involving public agencies. We can explain the laws that apply to your case and use our experience for your benefit. 

Taking the right steps in the immediate aftermath can make a difference in your ability to receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. This reinforces the importance of having experienced counsel.

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