Bus Accident Lawyer in Midway, IL

Bus accidents in Midway, IL, can have devastating consequences, leading to severe injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver involved in a bus accident, understanding your legal rights is crucial. At Chicago Injury Lawyer Firm, we are committed to helping victims seek justice and fair compensation for their injuries.

Causes of Bus Accidents in Midway, IL

Bus accidents can occur due to various factors, including:

• Driver Negligence: Fatigue, distracted driving, or speeding can lead to serious collisions.
• Mechanical Failures: Poor maintenance, brake failures, or tire blowouts can result in preventable accidents.
• Traffic Violations: Running red lights, failing to yield, or unsafe lane changes often contribute to crashes.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice increase the likelihood of skidding and loss of control.
• Reckless Driving by Other Vehicles: Cars cutting in front of buses or failing to respect transit right-of-way laws can lead to collisions.

Types of Common Bus Accidents

Rear-end Collisions

Often caused by sudden stops or tailgating, rear-end collisions can result in whiplash, head trauma, and other injuries.

Intersection Accidents

These accidents occur when buses fail to yield the right of way, run red lights, or when other vehicles ignore traffic signals at intersections.

Pedestrian-related Accidents

Pedestrians crossing streets near bus stops or transit hubs are at high risk of being struck, especially in low-visibility conditions.

Side-impact Crashes

Also known as T-bone collisions, these accidents typically happen when a bus is struck on its side by another vehicle, often at an intersection.

Rollover Accidents

Due to their size and high center of gravity, buses are prone to tipping over, especially when making sharp turns at high speeds or during abrupt maneuvers.

Bus Mechanical Failures

Poor maintenance, defective brakes, or tire blowouts can lead to serious accidents. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for preventing these failures.

Single-vehicle Bus Crashes

In some cases, a bus may lose control and crash into a stationary object, such as a tree, building, or guardrail, leading to injuries among passengers and pedestrians.

Weather-related Accidents

Rain, snow, and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the risk of skidding, loss of control, and collisions. Drivers must adjust their speed and approach accordingly.

Common Injuries in Bus Accidents

Victims of bus accidents often suffer from:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Severe bruising and lacerations

Compensation for Bus Accident Victims in Midway, IL

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation, including:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication costs.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for time off work and long-term financial impact.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Coverage for therapy, assistive devices, and home modifications.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Emotional Distress: Coverage for PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for being unable to participate in previous activities.

Punitive Damages (When Applicable)

• In cases of reckless or willful misconduct, additional damages may be awarded to penalize the negligent parties.

What to Do After a Bus Accident in Midway, IL

If you are involved in a bus accident, follow these steps to protect your legal rights:

1. Call 911: Report the accident to Chicago Police Department at (312) 744-5000.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Visit Holy Cross Hospital (2701 W 68th St, Chicago, IL 60629) or MacNeal Hospital (3249 S Oak Park Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402).
3. Document the Scene: Take photos, collect witness statements, and obtain surveillance footage if available.
4. Contact a Lawyer: Chicago Injury Lawyer Firm can help you understand your legal options and file a claim for compensation.

Local Courthouse – Midway, IL

Bus accident cases in Midway, IL, are typically handled at the Richard J. Daley Center Courthouse, located at:

Richard J. Daley Center
50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: (312) 603-5030
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

FAQ Section