Megabus Accident Attorneys

Megabus is a fleet of large, double-decker inter-city buses. This form of transportation offers express passenger service in certain sections of the United States, including in New Jersey and New York. Like a Greyhound bus on steroids, a Megabus is an alternative means of transportation.

Because of the growing number of vehicles clogging the streets and highways today, more commuters are choosing public transportation. But the lack of ubiquitous inter-city rail service created an opportunity for Megabus. The problem that followed is a risk of more frequent and more deadly bus accidents. These buses are huge, and an impact with one can be catastrophic.

A Megabus accident usually results in serious injuries and property damage. If you’ve been in a Megabus accident in New Jersey, find an experienced truck and bus accident attorney as soon as possible. In NJ, you can contact the best at RAM Law. They have the experience to get you the compensation you deserve.

What Causes Megabus Accidents in New Jersey?

Megabus accidents are similar to accidents to those involving tractor trailers. Fully loaded, they weigh approximately 40,000 pounds. Their sheer size, weight and height can deliver the impact of an 18-wheeler. Their high center of gravity increases the danger of rollovers. Some of the most common causes of Megabus accidents include:

• Speeding or disobeying other traffic laws
• An impaired or distracted driver
• Driver negligence or an error in judgment
• Driving while drowsy
• An inexperienced or under-trained driver, which may point to the company’s negligence
• Reckless or aggressive driving
• Bad weather
• Poor road conditions
• Faulty brakes
• Careless passenger behavior

Megabus accidents have devastating and sometimes fatal results. Additionally, a Megabus accident endangers the bus passengers. Megabuses are equipped with seatbelts but not airbags. Passengers are allowed to stand and move about the cabin while the bus is in motion.

What Kind of Injuries Result from a Megabus Accident?

Injuries received in a Megabus accident are more severe than automobile accidents because of the weight and size of the vehicle. Megabus passengers risk injury from glass windows shattering. If standing, they may be thrown through a window. Common injuries from a Megabus accident include:

• Broken and fractured bones
• Serious head, brain and spinal cord injuries
• Back and neck injuries,  such as whiplash
• Burns from explosions or road rash
• Wrongful death

Megabus accidents are traumatic. If you’re in any way involved in a Megabus accident in New Jersey, your first step is to seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re hurt. Besides addressing your injuries, the medical attention you receive provides documentation to prove your expenses. Once you’re past the immediate danger, seek qualified legal representation.

What Are My Rights if I’ve Been Injured in a Megabus Accident?

When involved in a Megabus accident, you have the right to recover all losses, including expenses accrued and replacement costs. You have a right to full compensation and reimbursement of all related expenses, as well, including for your:

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Property replacement
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Funeral expenses, if necessary

After the accident, you have the right to:

• Collect and preserve evidence
• File a claim for compensation
• Access the responsible party’s records
• Access the vehicle’s computer records, if available
• Access the driver’s records
• File a lawsuit to sue Megabus

The laws governing vehicle accidents are complicated. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has clear guidelines, but New Jersey laws may not be. That’s why you need a bus accident lawyer who knows what to do, how to investigate and what’s likely to happen. That’s why you need the experience of RAM Law on your side.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Megabus Accident Lawyer?

There are many good reasons to consider hiring a lawyer. Megabus accident attorneys protect your rights. They also interpret the relevant state and federal laws. Large companies like Megabus have their own lawyers to minimize the damage done by any accident.

To fight back and to get compensation that fairly covers your expenses and losses, hire an attorney educated in and familiar with the laws of the state. Your attorney helps by:

• Gathering all the available evidence
• Guiding you through the settlement process
• Accessing all the damage from the accident
• Determining the accident liability
• Clarifying the settlement process, including your expected compensation
• Corresponding with the Megabus legal team
• Corresponding with the Megabus driver’s attorney, if there is one

After an accident, the Megabus company’s legal team processes and clears all the claims to close the case as quickly and efficiently as possible. The first offer of compensation, either from Megabus or from your own insurance company will likely be a low-ball offer. It’s not in your best interest to accept this offer. The lawyers at RAM Law support you by letting you know what to expect and how you can get the best settlement.

What Compensation Can I Expect from a Megabus Accident?

You’re entitled to be reimbursed and fully compensated for all out-of-pocket expenses incurred from the accident. The exact amount of your particular settlement is calculated based on all the factors involved, not just from your medical expenses. Reparations also include:

• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Future lost wages
• Property damage
• Property loss
• Pain and suffering
• Disfigurement
• Mental and emotional distress

Additionally, if you’re the surviving party who’s suffered the loss of a loved one, you’re entitled to compensation that includes:

• Loss of companionship
• Funeral expenses
• Loss of wages or income from the deceased
• Medical expenses before death
• Pain and suffering