Bus Accident Lawyer in Augusta, Georgia
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Augusta, GA, Horst Shewmaker is here to help. As a trusted Augusta bus accident lawyer, Horst Shewmaker has the experience and dedication needed to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t face the aftermath of a bus crash alone. Contact Horst Shewmaker today for a free consultation.
Why You Need an Augusta Bus Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been hurt in a bus accident in Augusta, the aftermath can be overwhelming. From dealing with serious injuries to figuring out who is responsible, you’re suddenly facing challenges you never expected. That’s where an experienced Augusta bus accident lawyer from Horst Shewmaker can help.
We understand Georgia personal injury law and know how to fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether the accident involved a public transit bus, school bus, or private charter, our team is here to protect your rights every step of the way.
Gathering Evidence
Evidence is the foundation of any strong injury claim. A skilled bus accident lawyer will know exactly what to look for and how to get it. This can include police reports, video footage, eyewitness statements, maintenance records, and more. Without proper evidence, it’s easy for insurance companies or bus companies to deny responsibility. At Horst Shewmaker, we act quickly to gather and preserve all critical information to support your claim.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to settle bus accident claims for far less than what victims truly deserve. They may pressure you into accepting a quick offer or try to downplay your injuries. An experienced Augusta bus accident lawyer knows how to handle these tactics. Our team will negotiate directly with the insurance companies on your behalf, making sure your settlement reflects the full extent of your damages.
Taking Your Case to Trial If Necessary
While many bus accident cases settle outside of court, sometimes a trial is the best path forward. If the responsible party refuses to offer fair compensation, our legal team is fully prepared to take your case to trial. We have experience presenting strong arguments in front of a judge and jury and will fight for justice on your behalf. You don’t have to go through this alone, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Who Can Be Responsible for a Bus Crash in Augusta, GA?
Bus accidents can involve multiple parties, and determining who is at fault isn’t always easy. That’s why it’s important to work with a law firm that understands the complexities of these cases. At Horst Shewmaker, we thoroughly investigate every angle to identify everyone who may share responsibility. Whether it’s a negligent driver or a poorly maintained vehicle, we work to hold the right people accountable for your injuries.
The Bus Driver
The driver of the bus is often the first person examined after a crash. If the driver was speeding, distracted, under the influence, or otherwise careless, they could be held personally responsible for the accident. Bus drivers have a duty to transport passengers safely, and failing to follow traffic laws can lead to serious consequences.
The Bus Company
Bus companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers, properly training them, and maintaining safe vehicles. If a company cuts corners to save money, everyone on the road is at risk. In many cases, bus companies can be held liable for their employees’ actions, especially if negligence or poor safety practices are involved.
A Government Agency
If a public transportation bus is involved in the crash, a government agency may be to blame. Claims against city or county agencies follow special rules and strict deadlines, which is why having a knowledgeable Augusta bus accident lawyer is so important. Our team understands how to pursue claims against government entities and will make sure your case is filed correctly and on time.
The Manufacturer of the Bus or Bus Parts
Sometimes, a defect in the bus or one of its components, such as brakes or tires, is the real cause of an accident. In these cases, the manufacturer of the bus or its parts may be held accountable under product liability laws. Proving this kind of fault can be complex, but our firm has the resources to bring in experts and build a strong case.
Compensation in a Bus Accident Claim
After a serious bus accident, you may be facing medical bills, missed work, and emotional trauma. Georgia law allows injured victims to seek compensation for these and other losses. At Horst Shewmaker, our goal is to help you recover the full value of your claim.
A qualified Augusta bus accident lawyer will assess your case, calculate your damages, and pursue every available form of compensation.
Medical Expenses
Medical costs after a bus crash can be overwhelming. You may need emergency treatment, surgery, hospital stays, physical therapy, or long-term care. Even with insurance, these costs can add up quickly. We work to recover all past and future medical expenses related to your injuries, so you can focus on healing without financial stress.
Lost Income
If your injuries prevent you from working, even temporarily, you may be entitled to recover lost wages. In more serious cases, you could also be compensated for reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job. At Horst Shewmaker, we document your financial losses and fight for the income you’ve missed and the future income you may lose due to your injuries.
Pain and Suffering
Bus accident victims often deal with more than just physical injuries. Chronic pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life are common after a serious crash. These non-economic damages are just as real as medical bills, and Georgia law allows victims to seek compensation for them. We’ll make sure your pain and suffering are fully considered in your claim.
Punitive Damages
In some bus accident cases, the at-fault party’s actions are so reckless that the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish wrongdoers and discourage similar behavior. Our Augusta bus accident attorneys can determine if punitive damages might apply based on the facts of your accident.
Wrongful Death Claims
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal bus accident, we are truly sorry for your loss. No amount of money can replace a family member, but a wrongful death claim can help ease the financial burden and hold the responsible parties accountable. Georgia allows certain family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover for lost income, funeral expenses, and the value of the life lost.
At Horst Shewmaker, our compassionate attorneys are here to help you navigate this difficult time and fight for the justice your loved one deserves.
Why Choose Horst Shewmaker?
Choosing the right legal team can make all the difference in your bus accident case. At Horst Shewmaker, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take on victims and their families. That’s why we’re committed to offering top-tier legal representation. Here’s why so many people across Georgia trust us to handle their most serious injury claims.
Experienced Bus Accident Attorneys
Bus accident cases often involve multiple parties, complex laws, and powerful insurance companies. Our attorneys have years of experience handling personal injury cases. We know what evidence to look for, how to deal with aggressive insurers, and when to push forward to trial.
Millions Won for Clients in Georgia
At Horst Shewmaker, results matter. We’ve recovered millions of dollars in compensation for accident victims throughout Georgia. Every case is personal to us, and we fight tirelessly to win the full and fair compensation clients deserve for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Top-Rated Georgia Personal Injury Law Firm
Our firm is proud to be recognized for its excellence and commitment to delivering outstanding legal services to injury victims across Georgia.
Here are some awards and top ratings we’ve earned:
- Georgia Super Lawyers: Michael Horst and Zachary Shewmaker
- Super Lawyers Rising Stars: Jarrett Miller and Torrie Dale
- BestofGeorgia.com 2024 Regional Winners: Personal Injury Law Firms
- AVVO Rating: 10.0 Superb
FAQs About Bus Accidents in Augusta
How Long Do You Have to File a Bus Accident Lawsuit in Augusta, Georgia?
In Georgia, bus accident victims generally have two years from the collision to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is called the statute of limitations. However, if the bus was owned or operated by a government agency (like a public school district), you may have to file a notice of claim much sooner, sometimes within six months.
Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering any compensation. It’s important to speak with an Augusta bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
How Much Does an Augusta Bus Accident Attorney Cost?
At Horst Shewmaker, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything upfront, and there are no hourly fees. We only get paid if we win your case. Our fee comes from a percentage of your settlement or court award, never out of your pocket. This way, you can focus on your recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.
What if the Bus Driver Is Not at Fault?
Even if the bus driver didn’t cause the accident, you may still have a valid claim. Other parties, like another driver, a maintenance provider, or even a government agency, could be responsible. Our Augusta bus accident lawyers will investigate the crash from all angles to identify every party that may share blame and help you pursue compensation.
What if I'm Injured as a Bus Passenger?
If you were a passenger on the bus during the accident, you can seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Whether the crash involved another vehicle or was due to something like poor maintenance or driver error, we’ll help you determine who is responsible and file a claim on your behalf.
Contact an Augusta Bus Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you contact Horst Shewmaker, the sooner we can begin building a strong case on your behalf. Our experienced Augusta bus accident lawyers will guide you through the legal process and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
We offer free consultations, and you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind. Call Horst Shewmaker today at (404) 400-1175 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free case evaluation.
