Riding the bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around Detroit, but accidents can happen. If you’ve been hurt in a bus crash, you might be dealing with medical bills, missed work, and a lot of questions about what to do next. Knowing your rights and making educated decisions can help you get the compensation you need. For help, you can visit davidchristensenlaw.com and talk to someone who understands the law.
Table of Contents
How to File a Claim for Compensation Against a Michigan Public Bus Company
Filing a claim against a Michigan public bus company, like the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT), can be more complicated than filing a regular personal injury claim. Public bus companies are considered government entities, and they follow different rules for liability and lawsuits. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
First, you’ll need to file a notice of intent to sue within a specific timeframe. In Michigan, the deadline for notifying a government agency is often much shorter than the typical statute of limitations for personal injury cases.
When filing the claim, you must clearly state how the bus company’s negligence caused your injuries. Examples of negligence include distracted driving by the bus operator, poorly maintained buses, or failure to follow traffic laws. Be prepared to show how this negligence led to your injuries.
If you were injured through a bus accident in Michigan involving a regional transportation authority, such as SMART, DDOT, or CATA, you must provide written notice of your injury claim to the traveling authority within 60 days of the accident. This step is crucial to preserve your right to seek compensation for pain and suffering, “excess” No-Fault medical and wage loss benefits, and other possible economic damages.
Get Medical Help Right Away
Your health should always come first. Even if you don’t feel hurt, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like a concussion or whiplash, might not show symptoms right away but could get worse over time.
Save all your medical records and bills. These can be important if you decide to file a claim later. Ignoring your injuries or delaying treatment can make it harder to prove your case.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe, gather evidence from the crash site. Take photos and/or videos of the scene, showing the bus, your injuries, and anything else that seems important, like traffic signs or road conditions.
Get contact information from any witnesses and other passengers. Their statements could support your claim later. The more details you have, the stronger your case will be.
Steps to Build a Strong Case
Taking the right steps after the accident can make your claim easier. Here’s what you can do:
- Save all paperwork. Keep medical bills, doctor’s notes, and any letters from the bus company or insurance adjusters.
- Be careful about social media. Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries, as insurance companies might use your posts against you.
- Don’t rush into a settlement. Insurance companies may offer you a quick payment, but it might not cover all your costs. Always talk to a lawyer before agreeing to anything.
These simple steps can help make sure your rights are protected.
Know Your Legal Rights
Public buses in Detroit are run by government agencies like the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT). If you want to file a claim against them, there are special rules and deadlines. For example, you might need to notify them of your intent to sue within a short time after the crash. Missing these deadlines could cost you your claim.
Also, Michigan has no-fault insurance rules, which means your personal insurance might pay for some medical costs, no matter who caused the accident. But if your injuries are serious, you could file a lawsuit to recover more money for your pain and suffering. A lawyer can explain your legal options and prepare you to take the right steps.
Why You Should Work with a Lawyer
Handling a bus accident claim without help can feel overwhelming. There are strict rules for filing claims against government agencies, and insurance companies often try to pay you as little as possible. Having a lawyer on your side makes a big difference.
A Michigan personal injury lawyer can handle the paperwork, talk to insurance adjusters, and fight for the money you deserve. This gives you the time and energy to focus on healing instead of stressing over legal details.
Contact a Lawyer Today to Protect Your Rights
Talk to a Michigan personal injury lawyer today to learn more about your options. They can guide you toward the compensation you deserve so you can move forward.