Greenville Bus Accident Lawyer

Fighting for Bus Accident Victims in Greenville, SC

Public transportation offers convenience and affordability, but when bus accidents occur, the consequences can be devastating. Whether you were injured as a passenger, driver, pedestrian, or cyclist, you deserve accountability and fair compensation. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our Greenville bus accident lawyers help victims across South Carolina pursue justice after serious crashes.

Bus accident cases often involve complex liability issues, multiple parties, and serious injuries. Our legal team understands the laws governing commercial and public transportation and will fight to hold negligent drivers, companies, or government agencies responsible for your losses.

Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward after a serious bus crash.

Common Types of Buses

Buses come in many forms, and each presents unique risks when an accident occurs. Common types of buses involved in South Carolina crashes include:

• City Transit Buses: Operated by local governments or transit authorities, these buses run on fixed routes throughout Greenville and surrounding areas.
• School Buses: Transporting children daily, school bus accidents can lead to catastrophic outcomes due to the number of minors on board.
• Tour Buses: Often operated by private companies, tour or charter buses carry groups of passengers across long distances.
• Intercity Buses: Companies like Greyhound or Megabus operate these vehicles for state and interstate travel.
• Shuttle Buses: These include airport, hotel, or campus shuttles that operate in high-traffic zones where collisions frequently occur.

Each bus type is governed by specific federal and state regulations, and identifying the type of bus involved is a critical first step in determining liability.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can stem from a variety of negligent behaviors or systemic issues. Common causes include:

• Driver Error: Speeding, distracted driving, and fatigue are leading causes of bus crashes. Bus drivers often work long hours, increasing the risk of mistakes.
• Improper Training: Inadequate driver training or failure to follow safety protocols can lead to collisions or rollovers.
• Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and engine issues may arise from poor maintenance or manufacturing defects.
• Dangerous Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, or inadequate signage can lead to loss of control—especially for larger vehicles like buses.
• Reckless Motorists: Other drivers’ negligence, such as unsafe lane changes or tailgating, often contributes to bus collisions.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and ice can make driving large buses even more challenging, especially if safety precautions are not followed.

At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our team investigates each accident thoroughly—reviewing maintenance records, driver logs, and black box data—to identify every contributing factor.

Common Bus Crash Injuries

Bus accident injuries can be severe due to the vehicle’s size, lack of seatbelts, and the number of passengers involved. Victims may suffer from:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
• Broken Bones and Fractures
• Internal Organ Damage
• Severe Lacerations and Burns
• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
• Wrongful Death

Passengers, pedestrians, and motorists hit by buses are all at risk of serious harm. Victims may require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, or assistive devices. Our Greenville bus accident attorneys help ensure you receive compensation for all medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

South Carolina Bus Driving Laws

Bus drivers and companies must adhere to both state and federal transportation laws to ensure passenger safety. Key regulations include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Bus drivers must hold a valid CDL with proper endorsements.
• Hours of Service Rules: Federal law limits the number of hours a driver can operate to prevent fatigue.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Companies are legally required to conduct regular inspections and maintenance on all buses.
• Passenger Safety: Buses must comply with safety equipment standards and provide accessible seating where required.
• Reporting Requirements: Accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage must be reported to law enforcement and the Department of Transportation.

Violating these laws can establish negligence in a bus accident claim. Our firm uses these legal standards to hold bus operators and their employers accountable for any breaches that contributed to your injuries.

Who is Liable for a Bus Accident?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex because multiple parties may share fault. Potentially liable parties include:

• Bus Driver: If the driver was distracted, intoxicated, or reckless.
• Bus Company or Operator: For negligent hiring, training, or vehicle maintenance.
• Manufacturers: If a defective part or system caused the crash.
• Government Entities: When the bus is operated by a city or county agency, such as Greenville Transit Authority.
• Third-Party Motorists: If another vehicle’s negligence led to the collision.

Our Greenville bus accident lawyers will identify every responsible party and pursue compensation from all available insurance policies.

Recoverable Damages in a Bus Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage

At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we’ll fight to ensure your recovery reflects the full scope of your losses—both economic and emotional.

Bus Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in South Carolina?

You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, but shorter deadlines may apply if the bus was operated by a government entity.

What if the bus was run by the city of Greenville?

Claims against public transit systems must follow special procedures, including filing a Notice of Claim within a specific timeframe. Our attorneys can help ensure all requirements are met.

Can I sue if my child was hurt in a school bus crash?

Yes. You may be able to file a claim against the school district, bus driver, or maintenance company, depending on the cause of the accident.

How much is my bus accident case worth?

The value depends on factors such as injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and liability. Our team will calculate your damages to pursue maximum compensation.

Contact a Greenville Bus Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bus accident in Greenville or anywhere in South Carolina, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you contact a skilled attorney, the better your chances of preserving evidence and protecting your rights.

At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we’re dedicated to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Our Greenville bus accident lawyers offer compassionate support and aggressive representation from start to finish.

Call (803) 599-2207 today and take confident steps forward with a trusted Greenville bus accident attorney by your side.