Indiana Bus Accident Attorney

Contributory Negligence Cases Against School Buses or City Buses

If you are involved in a bus accident case, keep these critical points in mind:

• Ownership of the bus: It matters whether the vehicle is government-owned or owned by a private company.
• Strict deadlines for claims: If the bus is government-owned, you may have as little as 180 days to file notice of your intent to bring a claim under the Indiana Tort Claims Act.
• Type of negligence law: Contributory negligence applies to cases against government entities. Any fault by the plaintiff can bar recovery.
• Documentation and notice: Act quickly to collect documents, notify the correct agency, and identify which government body to pursue especially in Fort Wayne or Allen County, where city buses and school vehicles are active.

Stop delaying and secure your rights, as cases against government-owned buses have a strict 180-day deadline that is already running; contact our Indiana Bus Accident Attorneys immediately to overcome the challenge of contributory negligence, which can completely bar your financial recovery.

If you've experienced a bus accident involving either a school bus or a city bus in Fort Wayne, you may face legal obstacles that are difficult to navigate alone. Cases involving government-owned buses, like those operated by Fort Wayne Community Schools or Citilink, are often subject to strict notice deadlines and specific procedural requirements. It is vital to act quickly. A knowledgeable team can help you gather documentation, notify the correct agencies, and secure evidence before it is lost. Details such as identifying the right government entity or establishing that you bear no fault are crucial. If you choose to pursue a claim, begin documenting interactions and collecting relevant paperwork as early as possible. The courts in Allen County closely review these claims, so do not delay your response.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Fort Wayne

Many bus accidents occur due to:

• Distracted driving: Bus drivers on busy streets like Jefferson Boulevard or Clinton Street may be distracted by passengers, smartphones, or frequent route changes.
• Driver fatigue: Long hours and tight schedules can reduce alertness for drivers on extended Allen County routes.
• Mechanical failures: Poorly maintained vehicles or delayed repairs can compromise safety for passengers and motorists, especially during harsh Indiana winters.
• Improper speed for conditions: Drivers sometimes travel too fast around school zones or on turns at busy intersections, raising accident risk.
• Inadequate driver training: Some companies do not fully prepare or retrain staff, which can lead to preventable errors.

Consequences of Contributory Negligence: 1% Fault Means No Recovery

Contributory negligence is a strict legal standard where a plaintiff must be found absolutely zero percent at fault to recover any damages, but because juries are thoughtful and seek justice for injured individuals, it is crucial to work with an experienced firm like Shaw Law, which is adept at handling these complex claims. We understand that professional bus drivers, who must pass the CDL test and prioritize public safety over profits, may sometimes face undue pressure from employers focused on timeliness, a factor that can compromise safety, as demonstrated in a case we handled against a private school bus company where contract penalties for late arrivals led to drivers speeding and taking unnecessary risks, ultimately resulting in a $5,000,000 verdict. You can hire us to begin working on your case in less than 10 minutes, signing up from the comfort of your home.

Why Hire Shaw Law for Your Bus Accident Claim?

Our experience and focused approach in Fort Wayne bus accident cases offer several advantages:

• Hands-on case involvement: Clients work directly with our attorneys, not just support staff.
• Knowledge of local entities: We understand procedures at the Allen County Courthouse and often handle claims against local schools, municipalities, and bus companies.
• Strong communication and updates: Our "EZ Case" app offers real-time updates on case developments and status to our clients.
• Proven negotiation tactics: We have decades of experience negotiating with insurers and city legal departments regarding bus-related claims in Fort Wayne.

If you've been injured in a bus accident in Indianapolis, particularly on busy highways like I-465 or on smaller streets, you need an experienced team by your side. At Shaw Law, you can work directly with our attorneys to get high-quality representation. With over 30 years of experience, we understand the intricacies of personal injury law and are committed to advocating for your rights.

Choose Our Dedicated Team

We prioritize clear and constant communication, keeping you informed about your case. Our team is committed to transparency, so you always know your status throughout the process. We also recognize the emotional and physical challenges you may be going through, which is why we provide compassionate, client-focused support. We know the local roads and the legal process, especially when dealing with government-operated buses.

Accident attorney today if you or someone you know has been involved in an accident involving a bus or school bus.