Waco Bus Accident Attorney

Helping Bus Accident Victims in Waco, TX

If you or someone you love has been injured in a bus accident in Waco, TX, you deserve skilled legal representation to protect your rights and secure full compensation. At the Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C., our Waco bus accident lawyers are committed to helping victims hold negligent drivers, companies, and municipalities accountable. Whether your accident involved a city bus, school bus, or private charter, our firm can guide you through the complex legal process with confidence and care.

Contact us today at (254) 938-6885 to schedule a free consultation.

Common Types of Buses

Bus accidents can involve various types of vehicles, each with unique operating conditions, maintenance requirements, and liability issues. Some of the most common types of buses involved in accidents include:

• City and Public Transit Buses: Operated by municipal agencies like Waco Transit System, these buses run on fixed routes through busy city streets. Heavy traffic, frequent stops, and tight schedules often contribute to accidents.
• School Buses: Carrying precious cargo—children—school bus accidents can be devastating. These cases often involve additional regulations and oversight due to student safety laws.
• Private Charter and Tour Buses: These buses transport groups across long distances, sometimes leading to fatigue-related accidents or mechanical failures from inadequate maintenance.
• Intercity Buses (Greyhound, Megabus, etc.): Traveling between cities, these buses may encounter highway hazards, high speeds, and driver fatigue, increasing the risk of serious collisions.

Understanding the type of bus involved is essential because it can determine who is legally responsible and what insurance or government protections apply.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents are often preventable and caused by negligence or regulatory violations. The most frequent causes include:

• Driver Fatigue: Bus drivers often work long shifts, leading to fatigue that reduces reaction times and increases the likelihood of mistakes.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or even interacting with passengers can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
• Speeding or Reckless Driving: Pressure to meet schedules can cause drivers to speed, especially on highways or during rush hour.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Worn brakes, faulty tires, or steering problems can cause catastrophic mechanical failures.
• Improper Training: Bus drivers require specialized training and licensing. Lack of proper instruction can lead to errors in handling large, heavy vehicles.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Potholes, construction zones, and poorly designed intersections can contribute to crashes, sometimes implicating government agencies in liability.

At Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C., our attorneys thoroughly investigate the cause of each bus accident to uncover all contributing factors and responsible parties.

Common Bus Accident Injuries

Because buses are large, heavy vehicles, even low-speed collisions can cause significant injuries. Victims may include passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and occupants of other vehicles. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Wrongful death

Bus accidents can leave victims with long-term disabilities and substantial medical expenses. Our Waco bus accident lawyers fight to ensure victims receive full compensation for medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Texas Bus Driving Laws

Bus operators in Texas are subject to both state and federal transportation laws to ensure safety on public roads. Some key legal requirements include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Bus drivers must obtain a valid CDL with passenger endorsements, demonstrating specialized training and competence.
• Hours of Service Regulations: Federal rules limit how long drivers can operate without rest to reduce fatigue-related accidents.
• Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance: Buses must undergo regular inspections to ensure mechanical safety. Operators are legally required to maintain maintenance logs.
• Passenger Safety Requirements: School buses, for instance, must follow specific safety procedures when loading and unloading children.

When these regulations are ignored, accidents can happen — and negligent parties can be held liable under Texas law.

Who is Liable for a Bus Accident?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility, depending on the circumstances:

• The Bus Driver: If the driver acted negligently (e.g., distracted driving, speeding), they may be personally liable.
• The Bus Company or Employer: Under the legal principle of “vicarious liability,” the bus company may be responsible for the actions of its drivers.
• Government Agencies: If the accident involved a city or county bus, a government entity might be liable. However, these claims have strict deadlines and procedures under the Texas Tort Claims Act.
• Manufacturers and Maintenance Contractors: Defective parts or negligent maintenance can also lead to liability for third parties.

Bus Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Texas?

In most cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. However, if a government entity is involved, you may need to file a notice of claim within six months—sometimes sooner.

What compensation can I recover after a bus accident?

You may be entitled to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in severe cases, future care costs or wrongful death damages.

Do I need a lawyer for a bus accident claim?

Yes. Bus accidents often involve multiple insurers, government agencies, and complex regulations. A qualified Waco bus accident lawyer can protect your rights and handle all legal negotiations on your behalf.

What if I was a pedestrian or another driver hit by a bus?

You can still file a claim for your injuries. Liability depends on the facts, and our team will work to ensure your side of the story is fully represented.

What does it cost to hire your firm?

At Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe no legal fees unless we win compensation for you.

Contact a Waco Bus Accident Lawyer Today

Bus accidents can change lives in an instant, leaving victims with overwhelming medical bills and emotional trauma. You don’t have to face this alone. The experienced attorneys at Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C. are ready to help you seek justice and fair compensation.

Call our Waco bus accident attorneys today at (254) 938-6885 for a free consultation.