Myrtle Beach Bus Accident Lawyer

Myrtle Beach Bus Accident Attorney

Car accidents have devastating effects on survivors. When the accident involves a bus, the physical injuries can be especially severe because of its sheer size and weight. Reach out to a Myrtle Beach bus accident lawyer to understand what legal options are available in your personal injury case.

Hire a Bus Accident Lawyer That South Carolina Locals Trust

With five attorneys and over 100 years of combined professional experience, the team at Axelrod & Associates, P.A. can take on any case that comes into our office. Founding attorney Stuart M. Axelrod created our firm on the belief that everyone deserves access to competent legal services. We’ve fought to secure:

• $1.6 million for a client who suffered injuries after being hit by a semi-truck
• $300,000 for clients who were injured while passengers of a car when the driver ran off the road
• $550,000 for a client who suffered extensive injuries while walking and was hit by a car

Our team is proud to offer free consultations to residents of Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas in South Carolina. When the worst happens, you need a lawyer you can rely on.

Bus Accidents in Myrtle Beach

In 2023, the average commute time for Myrtle Beach residents was 18.5 minutes. That same year, there were 1,047 deaths due to motor vehicle accidents. Longer commute times can increase the likelihood of getting into a crash.

The types of buses involved in a crash can vary. Myrtle Beach residents may be involved in a crash with the Coast RTA, a school bus from the Horry County School District, or shuttle buses from Coastal Carolina University. When a bus is involved in a crash, the effects can be severe. Large, heavy-duty engines used in city buses can weigh more than 33,001 pounds. In contrast, the average weight of a car is 4,094 pounds.

How South Carolina Courts Determine Fault in a Bus Accident Case

When courts are determining who must pay compensation in a bus accident case, they’ll review the evidence provided by all parties. Then, they’ll assign everyone involved in the crash a percentage of fault. As long as your percentage isn’t more than 50%, you can pursue compensation.

However, any compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Courts only require guilty parties to pay what they’re responsible for. For example:

• If you were speeding at the time of the crash and hit the bus, you may be assigned 40% fault for the accident
• If the bus driver was texting while driving and drifted into your lane, they may be assigned 60% fault for the accident
• If you were awarded $100,000, it would be reduced by 40%, making your final compensation $60,000.

Be sure to hire a bus accident lawyer to help represent your case. They’ll be able to review your situation, gather evidence, and file your claim with the maximum amount of compensation available to be requested at the Horry County Government & Justice Center, located at 1301 Second Avenue in Conway.

Types of Damages Available to Be Requested in a Bus Accident Case

Courts allow victims to request compensation during a bus accident case. The amount awarded to victims is calculated based on the real losses they’ve suffered from the crash. Victims can pursue compensation to cover:

• Medical bills, including surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and mental health counseling
• Lost income due to missing work from injuries
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Damage to their vehicle and other personal belongings, such as their cell phone or bag

While compensation can’t take away the pain of what happened, it can help victims have an easier time financially.

FAQs About Myrtle Beach, SC Bus Accident Laws

What Are Punitive Damages?

Punitive damages are a specific type of damage that can be requested in unique cases where there was extreme malice or negligence on the part of the wrongdoer. For example, if the bus driver was falling asleep at the wheel or intoxicated while driving, you may be awarded punitive damages. These damages, while benefiting the filing party, were designed to further punish the responsible party and deter any similar behavior from happening again in the future.

What Is the Deadline for Filing My Bus Accident Claim in South Carolina?

The deadline for filing your bus accident claim in South Carolina is generally three years. However, if the bus that was involved in the crash was a government vehicle, that deadline shifts to only one year. It’s important to act quickly, no matter the deadline. Waiting to file will only hurt your chances of winning your case. If you fail to file within the proper deadline, your case will most likely be dismissed entirely.

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Bus Accident to Protect Myself?

After a bus accident, there are several steps you need to take to protect yourself. Call 911 and request an officer and medical treatment. While waiting, take photos of the crash site, including any skid marks or property damage. Take photos of your injuries and damage to your vehicle and personal belongings. Collect the information of the other driver involved in the crash, as well as the information of any witnesses. Don’t apologize, as this can be used against you.

What Evidence Can Help Bolster My Legal Claim?

Extensive and diverse evidence can help bolster your legal claim. Your lawyer can help you gather and preserve eyewitness and professional testimony about what they saw and believe caused the crash. Include copies of the incident report, your medical records, and any photos taken at the time of the crash, as well as a written timeline of events. Your lawyer can track down any dash cam, traffic cam, or surveillance footage of the crash.

Choose an Experienced Personal Injury Law Firm Today

Reach out to Axelrod & Associates, P.A. to learn how our attorneys can help you. We offer free consultations to residents of Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas in South Carolina. After an accident, you need a strong support system to help you during the recovery process. Let our skilled lawyers be a part of your support system by taking care of the legal side of things for you.