If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Pontiac, IL, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced attorneys at Chicago Injury Lawyer are dedicated to helping victims secure the justice and financial recovery they deserve. Whether your accident involved a school bus, public transit, or a private charter, we can assist in navigating the complexities of Illinois personal injury law.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Pontiac
Bus accidents in Pontiac can occur due to several factors, including:
- Driver Negligence – Speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.
- Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, construction zones, or hazardous weather on major routes like I-55 and Route 66.
- Mechanical Failures – Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or engine issues due to improper maintenance.
- Reckless Driving by Other Motorists – Cars cutting off buses or ignoring traffic signals.
- Negligent Bus Companies – Inadequate driver training or failure to enforce safety regulations.
Injuries Resulting from Bus Accidents
Bus accidents can lead to severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and burns
What to Do After a Bus Accident in Pontiac
If you are involved in a bus accident in Pontiac, follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention – Visit OSF Saint James – John W. Albrecht Medical Center (2500 W Reynolds St, Pontiac, IL) for a thorough medical evaluation.
- Report the Accident – Contact the Pontiac Police Department (413 N Mill St, Pontiac, IL) or Livingston County Sheriff’s Office (844 W Lincoln St, Pontiac, IL) to file an official report.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, injuries, and any vehicle damage.
- Obtain Witness Statements – Collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Consult a Bus Accident Lawyer – Reach out to Chicago Injury Lawyer for a free case review.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident Case?
Liability in a bus accident can involve multiple parties, including:
- Bus Drivers – If negligence, distraction, or intoxication played a role.
- Bus Companies – For poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or lack of maintenance.
- Government Entities – If the accident involved public transit buses like Pontiac’s local transit services.
- Manufacturers – If a defective bus part contributed to the crash.
- Other Motorists – If reckless driving from another vehicle caused the accident.
Compensation for Bus Accident Victims in Pontiac
Victims of bus accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – Current and future medical bills.
- Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, trauma, and physical pain.
- Rehabilitation Costs – Long-term physical therapy and recovery services.
- Wrongful Death Claims – For families who have lost a loved one due to a bus accident.
Why Choose Chicago Injury Lawyer for Your Case?
- Proven Track Record – Successfully recovering millions for injury victims.
- Experienced Legal Team – Specialized in handling complex bus accident cases.
- No Fees Unless We Win – We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
- Client-Centered Approach – Personalized legal representation tailored to your needs.
EXCELLENT Based on 315 reviews Kat Chow2024-11-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't stress enough how grateful I am that we hired Paul Marriett to help us with our case. His communication was not only timely and thorough but also understandable. He did a phenomenal job guiding us through the process and preparing us for the courtroom, which put our minds at ease. Once our hearing came, he did his job flawlessly and won our case. Additionally, he was quite pleasant to speak with when our judge was behind schedule and while the court was in recess. I highly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney and will reach out again in the future should we ever need representation. angel martinez2024-11-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional and helpful! I would recommend to all my friends and family to hire him. He was eager to know the circumstances of my case even before I hired him. I did contact other lawyers and offices, but none came close to the comfort I felt while talking to Mr. Marriertt, I really felt like he cared about the situation I found myself in. He deserves 6 stars for going above and beyond John Harker2024-11-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul helped me out with a traffic citation. The communication was great as he walked me through my options and what to expect with my court date and plea deal. 10/10 service. Highly recommended. Thanks again, Paul. Ryan H.2024-11-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul was very professional, sharp dressed and clearly a notch above most in the courtroom. He understood my plight and refused to be bullied. Knows the law to a T....I'm keeping him on speed dial. I think u will trust him too. Scorpion Solar2024-10-31Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. BEYOND satisfied with the services & representation! The communication & efforts have been above & BEYOND! Amazing price as well for a minor traffic hiccup. 11/10 recommend & prefer this firm for any future occurrences!!! Very transparent, & puts in the effort to help you!!! Zak Green2024-10-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are needing a lawyer in Rockford or the surrounding areas this is the guy you need to get ahold of! Do not waste your time or money going to someone else.... From the very start Mr. Marriett was on top of his job. I called several lawyers before him and he was the first to thoroughly explain everything I needed to hear without even asking him to. The definition of a great lawyer. Each time we went to court he always let me know ahead of time either in person or via phone what the expectations or options would be going in. I highly recommend Paul Marriett if you are in need of a lawyer! Kelli2024-10-17Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Explained everything well. Kept us informed. I'm glad we found him. bruce paulson2024-10-16Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very late on sharing my feedback only because I’m google illiterate. Attorney Merriett did a very smart excellent job for me and not real expensive considering how stupid I was to get in trouble . Thank you! For all your professionalism! Bruce P. Austin “i like trains” Arvey2024-10-09Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service and a reliable lawyer. I'm glad we got him instead of getting anyone else. :)
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- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
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Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7
FAQ Section
1. How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Illinois?
Under Illinois law (735 ILCS 5/13-202), you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, if a government entity is involved, deadlines may be shorter. Consult an attorney immediately to avoid missing your deadline.
2. Can I still file a claim if I was a passenger on a public transit bus?
Yes, you can file a claim against the Pontiac local transit authority or the responsible party if negligence caused your injuries. Public transit claims may have unique filing requirements, so it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly.
3. What if the bus driver was at fault?
If the bus driver was negligent, you may have a claim against the driver, the bus company, or even the municipality if it was a public bus. Our legal team can determine the best course of action for your case.
4. How much compensation can I expect for my bus accident injuries?
Compensation varies based on the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. A thorough case evaluation by Chicago Injury Lawyer can provide a clearer estimate of your potential compensation.
5. Where can I find more information about public transportation regulations in Illinois?
You can visit the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for public transit safety guidelines and accident statistics.