Illinois Bus Accident Lawyers

Experienced Injury Lawyers Helping Injured Victims of Bus Crashes in DuPage County, Kane County, and throughout Illinois

Bus accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and loss of life. In Illinois, where school buses, public transit, and commercial buses are commonly used for daily commutes and long-distance travel, accidents involving these vehicles present unique legal and logistical challenges. Whether it’s a city bus, a school bus, or a commercial carrier like Greyhound or Megabus, victims and their families deserve justice when negligence is involved.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we provide compassionate representation and strategic advocacy to individuals and families affected by bus accidents. With over 90 years of collective litigation experience, we are dedicated to helping bus accident victims secure the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

“Bus accident cases are about more than financial compensation—they’re about holding negligent parties accountable and preventing future tragedies. Our clients deserve justice and peace of mind.” — John J. Malm, Naperville bus accident attorney

How Common Are Bus Accidents in Illinois?

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), bus accidents are a significant concern in the state. In 2022:

• There were 1,884 crashes involving buses statewide.
• 38 crashes resulted in serious injuries, and 5 involved fatalities.

Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that:

• Large buses were involved in 115 fatal crashes in 2020.
• On average, 63,000 bus-related crashes occur annually across the United States.
• School buses account for approximately 40% of bus-related fatalities, underscoring the vulnerability of child passengers.

These statistics highlight the importance of strict safety measures and accountability for operators of buses in Illinois and beyond.

Types of Bus Accidents in Illinois

Bus accidents vary depending on the type of vehicle and the circumstances of the crash. Common types include:

1. School Bus Accidents: School buses transport thousands of children daily, making safety a top priority. Despite their design for passenger protection, crashes can occur due to driver negligence, poor vehicle maintenance, or unsafe road conditions.

2. Public Transit Bus Accidents: Public transit systems, such as the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), serve millions of Illinois residents annually. Accidents involving transit buses may be caused by:

• Distracted driving.
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance.
• Poorly maintained roads or intersections.

3. Charter and Tour Bus Accidents: Charter and tour buses often carry large groups over long distances. When these vehicles crash, the results are often catastrophic due to the number of passengers and the speed at which they travel.

4. Commercial Carrier Accidents: Accidents involving commercial carriers like Greyhound or Megabus present additional challenges due to the interstate nature of their operations. Causes may include driver fatigue, inadequate training, or violations of federal safety regulations.

5. Private Shuttles and Vans: Hotels, airports, and other organizations often operate private passenger shuttles. These vehicles are subject to different safety standards, and liability in accidents can be complicated.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

While each accident is unique, some common causes of bus accidents include:

1. Driver Negligence: Bus drivers are responsible for the safety of their passengers and others on the road. Distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or failure to follow traffic laws are frequent causes of accidents.

2. Mechanical Failures: Regular inspections and maintenance are critical to bus safety. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions are often linked to poor maintenance or defective parts.

3. Roadway Hazards: Poorly maintained roads, construction zones, and inadequate signage can contribute to accidents. In some cases, municipalities may be partially liable for failing to address these hazards.

4. Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and fog are common in Illinois, creating slippery roads and reducing visibility. Bus drivers and operators are responsible for adjusting operations to ensure passenger safety in adverse conditions.

Who Is Liable for a Bus Accident in Illinois?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex due to the number of parties involved. Potentially responsible parties include:

1. The Bus Driver: If the driver was negligent, distracted, or fatigued, they may be held personally responsible for the accident.

2. The Bus Company: Bus companies, such as Greyhound or local transit operators, can be held accountable for failing to properly train drivers, maintain vehicles, or adhere to safety regulations.

3. Government Entities: For public transit accidents, municipalities or transit authorities like the CTA may be liable for unsafe practices, negligent hiring, or poor roadway maintenance.

4. Third Parties: Other drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or contractors responsible for road maintenance may share liability depending on the circumstances of the crash.

Steps to Take After a Bus Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation to document your condition.

2. Report the Accident: File a police report and notify the bus company or transit authority involved. Official documentation is crucial for your case.

3. Gather Evidence: Collect as much information as possible, including:

• Photos of the accident scene and your injuries.
• Contact information for witnesses.
• Copies of medical records and expenses.

4. Consult an Experienced Attorney: Bus accident cases often involve multiple parties and complex investigations. An experienced Illinois bus accident attorney can guide you through the process, handle negotiations, and build a strong case.

Compensation for Bus Accident Victims

Victims of bus accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Covering emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional trauma.
• Wrongful Death: Families of victims of fatal bus accidents may recover damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for your Bus Accident Claim?

At John J. Malm & Associates, our Illinois bus accident attorneys have the experience and resources necessary to handle complex bus accident cases. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Decades of Experience: With over 90 years of collective litigation experience, we have successfully represented clients in serious injury and wrongful death cases.

2. Expert Collaboration: We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economists to uncover the truth and maximize compensation.

3. Personalized Advocacy: We understand that every case is unique. Our team takes the time to understand your needs and tailor our strategy to achieve the best outcome.

4. Proven Results: Our firm has a track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-altering injuries and losses.

“Bus accidents require thorough investigation and a deep understanding of the law. We are committed to standing by our clients and holding negligent parties accountable.” — John J. Malm, Naperville bus accident attorney

Contact the Dedicated Illinois Bus Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Illinois, don’t face the aftermath alone. At John J. Malm & Associates, our top-rated Illinois bus crash lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve.

With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, we proudly serve clients throughout Illinois. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help. Don’t wait—justice starts here. Reach out to John J. Malm & Associates now and let us stand by your side on your journey toward recovery and accountability.