If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Vandalia, IL, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced attorneys at Chicago Injury Lawyer are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights. Vandalia, a key transit hub in Fayette County, sees frequent bus traffic from public transit, school buses, and private charters. Accidents involving buses can lead to severe injuries, and pursuing justice requires knowledgeable legal representation.
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 Vandalia
Bus accidents can occur due to various factors, including:
- Driver negligence – Speeding, fatigue, or distracted driving can lead to crashes.
- Poor road conditions – Potholes, construction zones, and slick roads contribute to accidents.
- Mechanical failures – Brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine malfunctions can cause accidents.
- Reckless driving by others – Car drivers who cut off or fail to yield to buses create dangerous situations.
- Weather conditions – Snow, rain, and fog reduce visibility and road traction, increasing crash risks.
Injuries Resulting from Bus Accidents
Bus accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicle. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
What to Do After a Bus Accident in Vandalia
If you are involved in a bus accident in Vandalia, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can surface later. Visit Fayette County Hospital (650 W Taylor St, Vandalia, IL 62471, (618) 283-1231) for evaluation.
- Report the accident – Call the Vandalia Police Department (219 S 5th St, Vandalia, IL 62471, (618) 283-2131) to file an official report.
- Gather evidence – Take photos, collect witness information, and document details of the accident.
- Consult an attorney – Contact Chicago Injury Lawyer to assess your case and determine legal options.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident Case?
Liability in a bus accident may involve multiple parties, such as:
- Bus drivers – If negligence, distraction, or fatigue played a role.
- Bus companies – If they failed to maintain the vehicle or hired unqualified drivers.
- Government entities – If a public transit bus was involved, the city or county may be liable.
- Third-party drivers – If another driver caused the crash.
- Bus manufacturers – If defective parts contributed to the accident.
Compensation for Bus Accident Victims in Vandalia
Victims of bus accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
Why Choose Chicago Injury Lawyer for Your Case?
Our legal team has extensive experience handling bus accident cases in Vandalia and throughout Illinois. We offer:
- Proven track record – Successful settlements and verdicts for injured victims.
- No upfront fees – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay only if we win.
- Dedicated legal support – Personalized guidance throughout the legal process.
- Aggressive representation – Fighting insurance companies and responsible parties on your behalf.
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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- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- 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.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
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?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If the claim involves a government-owned bus, you may need to file within one year. Contact an attorney promptly to avoid missing deadlines.
2. Can I still file a claim if I was a passenger on the bus?
Yes, bus passengers have the right to seek compensation for injuries caused by driver negligence, another vehicle’s actions, or mechanical failures. You can file a claim against the responsible party, whether it’s the bus company, driver, or another motorist.
3. What if the bus accident was partially my fault?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation, though it may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
4. What type of evidence is needed for a bus accident claim?
Key evidence includes accident reports, medical records, eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, and expert analysis. An attorney can help gather and present this evidence to strengthen your case.
5. Where can I report a bus accident in Vandalia?
You should report the accident to the Vandalia Police Department (219 S 5th St, Vandalia, IL 62471, (618) 283-2131). If the accident involved public transit, also contact the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to report the incident.