When you step onto a bus or share the road with one, you expect the driver to be a professional who prioritizes safety above all else. You trust them to be alert, cautious, and sober. Discovering that a bus driver violated that trust by getting behind the wheel while intoxicated is infuriating.
The sheer size and weight of a bus mean that any collision is likely to cause catastrophic damage, and the presence of alcohol magnifies recklessness. If you or a loved one was injured in drunk driving bus accidents in Savannah, you may be facing a long road to recovery filled with medical appointments, financial stress, and emotional trauma.
Your path to justice starts with a conversation. We are ready to listen to your story and explain your legal options. Contact our bus accident attorneys at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
The Dangers of Impaired Bus Operation
Driving a bus requires a higher level of skill and attention than driving a passenger car. Commercial drivers must adhere to stricter standards because they are responsible for the lives of dozens of passengers and the safety of everyone around them. Not only do alcohol or drugs increase the driver’s reaction time, but it also impairs their judgment and severely compromises their ability to control the vehicle. In Savannah, bus crashes resulting from driving under the influence (DUI) often lead to devastating consequences because the driver may not even attempt to brake or swerve before impact.
We investigate these cases thoroughly to determine exactly what happened. We look at police reports, toxicology results, and the driver’s history to build a strong case. We also investigate the bus company’s role. Did they fail to screen the driver properly? Did they ignore previous red flags? These questions may reveal a pattern of negligence. If you suspect that alcohol played a role in your accident, contact us immediately so we can start preserving evidence.
Holding Bus Companies Accountable for Negligence
While a drunk driver is certainly at fault, they are often not the only party liable for the damages. Bus companies, whether private charters or public transit authorities, have a legal duty to ensure that their drivers are fit for duty. This includes conducting background checks, random drug and alcohol screenings, and monitoring drivers for signs of impairment. If a company failed in these duties, it can be held directly responsible for the injuries resulting from a Savannah drunk driving bus wreck.
Proving corporate negligence requires an extensive assessment of company records and internal policies. We know what to look for and how to expose failures in safety protocols. By holding the employer accountable, we can often secure a more substantial recovery for our clients, as commercial policies typically have much higher limits than individual insurance policies. Our attorneys at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers are not afraid to take on large corporations to ensure that you receive fair treatment. Reach out to our team to discuss potential liability in your case.
Punitive Damages in DUI Cases
In cases involving drunk driving, you may qualify for punitive damages in addition to compensation for medical bills and lost wages. Punitive damages aim to punish the wrongdoer for particularly egregious behavior and to deter others from engaging in similar conduct. Because driving a bus while intoxicated is a willful act of recklessness that endangers the public, it is often grounds for seeking these additional damages. If you sustained injuries in a bus wreck in Savannah because the driver was under the influence of alcohol, pursuing punitive damages can significantly increase the value of your settlement or verdict.
Our attorneys have the necessary experience to identify when punitive damages are appropriate and how to argue for them effectively. We have a track record of securing major victories for our clients, including a $21 million verdict. Our team even presented cases in the Supreme Court, demonstrating our willingness to fight for justice at the highest levels. We use our extensive trial experience to maximize your settlement and ensure that the negligent parties take responsibility for their actions.
Why Choose Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers?
Choosing the right lawyer is one of the most important decisions you will make after an accident. You need a firm that has the resources to handle litigation and the dedication to see your case through to the end. We are trial lawyers, not just settlement negotiators. We prepare every case as if it will go to court, which often compels insurance companies to offer fair settlements to avoid a trial.
We understand that you are going through one of the most difficult times in your life after a crash caused by an intoxicated Savannah bus driver. Our goal is to reduce your legal burden so you can focus on your physical and emotional recovery. We treat our clients with compassion and respect, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Contact Our Savannah Lawyers About Your DUI Bus Crash Case
The reckless actions of a drunk bus driver can change your life in an instant. You deserve justice and full compensation for your suffering. Do not let insurance companies minimize your claim or pressure you into a quick settlement. We are here to protect your rights and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
If you sustained injuries as a result of drunk driving bus accidents in Savannah, time is of the essence. Evidence can disappear, and strict deadlines apply to filing claims, especially those involving government entities. Contact our Savannah drunk driving bus accident lawyers today to share your story and schedule a free consultation.
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