Atlanta Bus Accident Lawyer

Atlanta Bus Accident Lawyer: Justice for Bus Accident Victims Across Georgia

If you’ve been injured in a bus crash in Atlanta, you need an experienced bus accident lawyer to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. From MARTA collisions in Midtown to school bus accidents in Decatur or charter bus crashes on I-285, these cases often involve multiple liable parties and can result in severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma.  

Our Atlanta bus accident lawyers led by Matt Wetherington, handle all the complex Georgia personal injury laws, like OCGA § 51-1-2, to hold negligent parties like bus drivers, bus companies, or other motorists accountable. Our personal injury lawyers meticulously investigate each case, gathering critical evidence like black box data, surveillance footage from the accident scene, or driver logs to prove liability. We pursue maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. 

Our trial-ready team, with a “Superb” Avvo rating and a $12 million judgment for a personal injury case, ensures powerful representation in courts like Fulton County Superior Court, delivering results for clients from Buckhead to Athens. With over $100 million recovered for clients, our bus accident lawyers are here to help you rebuild. 

We are Georgia Trial Lawyers Association members and our firm was voted best personal injury law firm twice by Georgia lawyers. We offer personalized, local expertise, serving all neighborhoods in Atlanta. Our contingency fee model (25–40%) means no upfront costs, you pay nothing unless we win.

If you’ve been involved in a bus crash in Atlanta, you need an Atlanta bus accident lawyer. Trust our proven track record and 24/7 availability. Contact us at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our quick online form to schedule a free consultation, learn your options, and take the next step toward compensation.

What are the Qualities of a Good Bus Accident Lawyer?

Choosing the right bus accident lawyer is essential for securing justice and compensation after a devastating crash, whether involving a MARTA bus or a school bus. A skilled bus accident attorney navigates Georgia’s complex personal injury laws, like OCGA § 51-1-2, to hold negligent parties including bus operators, companies, or other drivers, accountable for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. 

First, seek a lawyer with proven experience and specialization in personal injury cases, which often involve multiple parties and intricate evidence like black box data or MARTA safety records. Look for a track record of significant verdicts, such as Matt Wetherington’s $12 million judgment for a personal injury case, and affiliations with the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association. 

A “Superb” Avvo rating and trial experience in courts like Fulton County Superior Court are critical, as defendants may dispute liability, claiming victim fault under OCGA § 51-11-7. Ensure the lawyer has resources, like accident reconstructionists, to analyze crash reports or surveillance footage.

Next, prioritize a lawyer who offers compassionate, transparent communication and a contingency fee structure (25–40%), ensuring no upfront costs, as practiced by Wetherington Law Firm. During a free consultation, confirm that they clearly explain Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations (OCGA § 9-3-33) and provide a tailored strategy.

In personal injury cases, empathy is key; choose a lawyer who listens and supports your recovery, as shown in client reviews praising their care. A lawyer who builds trust and handles sensitive cases with care, especially near Peachtree Street, eases the legal burden for you and your family.

Finally, opt for a lawyer with local expertise who acts swiftly to preserve time-sensitive evidence, such as black box data from a MARTA bus or witness statements from he crash scene. The best bus accident attorneys serve clients across Georgia, leveraging resources to negotiate aggressively with insurers or litigate for maximum compensation, as evidenced by Wetherington Law Firm’s $100 million+ in recoveries. 

Verify their commitment through a free case evaluation, ensuring they focus on bus accident claims and are ready to counter defenses in Atlanta’s competitive legal landscape. Contact a lawyer at (404) 888-4444 to protect your rights and achieve justice.

What Do Bus Accident Lawyers Do?

A bus accident lawyer is a specialized attorney who represents victims or families seeking justice and compensation after a bus accident causes injuries or wrongful death. In Georgia, these lawyers navigate complex state laws, like OCGA § 51-1-2, and federal regulations to hold negligent parties like bus drivers, companies, or other motorists accountable for crashes on Atlanta’s I-285, MARTA routes, or school bus lanes.

By investigating accidents, proving liability, and securing damages for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma, they help clients rebuild their lives. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Investigating the Accident

Lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify liable parties, such as bus operators, maintenance crews, or government entities like MARTA. They collect evidence like:

• Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, and driver behavior, common in modern buses.
• Crash Reports: Police findings from I-75 or Peachtree Street incidents.
• Surveillance Footage: Captures events near Hartsfield-Jackson Airport or Downtown Atlanta.
• Witness Statements: Accounts clarifying fault, like a driver’s distraction in Buckhead.

2. Proving Liability

To establish negligence, bus accident lawyers prove duty, breach, causation, and damages under OCGA § 51-1-2. They use:

• Expert Testimony: Accident reconstructionists analyze crash dynamics; engineers assess bus maintenance failures.
• Corporate Records: Show company negligence, like ignored safety protocols by a charter bus operator.
• Driver Logs: Reveal violations of federal hours-of-service rules.

They counter defenses like comparative negligence (OCGA § 51-11-7), ensuring the victim’s fault doesn’t unfairly reduce damages.

3. Calculating and Pursuing Damages

Lawyers assess the full scope of losses, pursuing:

• Medical Costs: Hospital bills, rehabilitation, ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injuries, vital for families in Sandy Springs or Athens.
• Emotional Distress: Trauma from the crash, valued through psychological evaluations.

Firms like Wetherington Law Firm, with over $100 million in recoveries, including a $12 million judgment, maximize compensation through negotiation or litigation.

4. Navigating Legal Deadlines

Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations (OCGA § 9-3-33) requires prompt filing, with exceptions for minors or fraud (OCGA § 9-3-90, § 9-3-96). Bus accident attorneys ensure timely action in courts like Fulton County Superior Court, preserving evidence like black box data before it’s lost in Atlanta’s fast-paced environment.

5. Negotiating Settlements and Litigating

Most cases settle, but personal injury lawyers negotiate aggressively with insurers to avoid lowball offers, leveraging evidence to secure fair payouts. If needed, they litigate, presenting compelling cases to judges or juries, as Matt Wetherington’s team has, achieving significant verdicts. Their trial readiness ensures maximum recovery, whether for injuries or wrongful death in a MARTA bus crash.

Neighborhoods We Serve in Atlanta

If you’re looking for an Atlanta bus accident lawyer, Wetherington Law Firm proudly serves all of Atlanta’s top neighborhoods, including:

• Downtown Atlanta (30303)
• Midtown Atlanta (30309)
• Atlantic Station (30363)
• Virginia-Highland (30306)
• Old Fourth Ward (30308)
• Grant Park (30312)
• Cabbagetown (30316)
• Inman Park (30307)
• West End (30310)
• East Atlanta (30316)

If your accident happened in any of these areas, we’re right here to help you. We understand the traffic patterns, local road conditions, and the risks bus drivers face in these neighborhoods. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Why Choose Wetherington Law Firm?

Bus accident claims are more complicated than regular car accidents. They often involve public transportation companies like MARTA, private charter buses, or school buses, all of which are subject to specific regulations and insurance policies. Handling a claim alone can be overwhelming, and that’s why you need a local bus accident lawyer to guide you through it.

At Wetherington Law Firm, we know how to navigate the complexities of these claims. Our team understands how to handle large insurance companies and negotiate settlements for clients injured on MARTA buses, private buses, and school buses.

Here’s why hiring our bus accident lawyer in Atlanta makes a difference:

1. Local Knowledge of Atlanta’s Roads, Bus Routes, and Accident Hotspots

Bus accidents often happen in high-traffic areas where pedestrians, cars, and buses are all sharing the road. Busy corridors like Peachtree Street, Ponce de Leon Avenue, and the Downtown Connector are well-known for congestion and frequent collisions.

Local attorneys know the unique risks in these areas. We understand the bus routes that operate through neighborhoods like Midtown, Downtown, Virginia-Highland, and Inman Park. If your accident occurred at a high-risk intersection or a designated bus-only lane, our attorneys know exactly how to build a case around it. We also understand MARTA’s legal obligations to keep passengers safe, giving us a strong foundation for pursuing compensation.

2. Faster Response and 24/7 Availability

When you’re involved in a bus accident, time is critical. You need to act fast to preserve evidence like bus camera footage, eyewitness statements, and police reports. Without this evidence, it becomes harder to prove liability.

At Wetherington Law Firm, we offer 24/7 availability. If you’re searching for an Atlanta bus accident attorney, you can call us any time of the day or night. Our local team will meet you in person, review your case, and begin collecting evidence immediately.

Need to drop off medical bills or other documents? Our office is right here in Atlanta, so you’ll never have to wait. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, not just a paralegal or a call center.

3. Handling Complex Claims Against Bus Companies and Insurance Providers

When you’re dealing with MARTA buses, school buses, or private charter buses, you’re not just dealing with one driver — you’re dealing with corporate insurance companies and government entities. These companies have large legal teams working to reduce payouts for accident claims.

That’s why you need a law firm with experience handling big insurance adjusters. At Wetherington Law Firm, we know how these companies operate. We know their strategies, and we know how to counter them. When insurers see that you have a respected local firm like ours on your side, they’re more likely to offer a fair settlement.

If they refuse to pay what you deserve, we’ll take them to court. We’ve gone head-to-head with big insurers before, and we’re prepared to do it again.

4. Personalized Support and Direct Access to Your Attorney

When you hire one of those big-box, out-of-town law firms, you might never meet the attorney handling your case. You’ll be passed off to assistants or paralegals. But at Wetherington Law Firm, we offer personalized attention. You’ll work directly with your attorney from start to finish.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all strategies. Every bus accident is unique, and every client deserves personal attention. From the moment you contact us, you’ll be kept informed of every update, every settlement offer, and every legal step we take.

5. Proven Results

We’ve helped many people recover the compensation they deserve after a bus accident. Our track record of success speaks for itself.

6. No Fees Unless We Win

We believe everyone deserves access to quality legal representation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

Contact us today for a free case evaluation. 

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Atlanta

In Georgia, bus accidents can happen for a lot of different reasons. Understanding what caused your accident is important because it helps determine who is responsible. Here are some of the most common causes of bus accidents:

• Mechanical Failures: Buses are large, complex vehicles that need regular maintenance to stay safe on the road. If the brakes fail, the engine breaks down, or other parts stop working properly, it can lead to an accident. Bus companies are supposed to make sure their buses are in good condition, but if they don’t, mechanical problems can arise.
• Driver Negligence: Bus drivers have a big responsibility because they’re transporting many passengers. If a driver is careless—like if they’re speeding, texting, or driving while tired—they can cause serious accidents. Bus drivers must follow the rules of the road and make sure they are fully alert, but sometimes they fail to do so, which puts everyone in danger.
• Poor Road Conditions: Sometimes, the road itself is the problem. Bad weather, potholes, broken traffic signals, or unclear signs can make driving dangerous for buses and other vehicles. In these situations, the government or city agencies may be held responsible if they didn’t properly maintain the roads.
• Faulty Maintenance by the Bus Company: Bus companies must regularly check their buses to make sure they are safe to drive. If they don’t fix issues like worn-out tires or malfunctioning lights, they’re putting passengers and other drivers at risk. Failure to properly maintain buses can lead to breakdowns or accidents.

Each bus accident is unique, and figuring out what caused it is a key step in building a legal case. At Wetherington Law Firm, we carefully investigate every aspect of the accident to ensure we hold the right people accountable. This dedication helps us secure the best possible outcome for our satisfied clients and your case. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident in Georgia?

In a bus accident, more than one person or company could be responsible for what happened. Figuring out who is to blame is important because it helps decide who should pay for your injuries and damages. Here are some of the people or groups that could be held liable:

• The Bus Company: The company that owns the bus is usually responsible for making sure it is safe and that the drivers are well-trained. If the company didn’t properly maintain the bus or hire qualified drivers, they could be held liable.
• The Bus Driver: If the driver was speeding, distracted, or driving recklessly, they might be at fault. Bus drivers are responsible for keeping their passengers safe and following the rules of the road.
• Maintenance Contractors: Sometimes, a separate company is hired to inspect and repair buses. If they didn’t do their job right and a mechanical failure caused the accident, they could also be held responsible.
• Other Drivers: If another vehicle on the road caused the bus accident, that driver could be held liable too. This might happen if another driver was speeding, ran a red light, or drove carelessly, causing the bus to crash.
• Government Entities: If the accident happened because of bad road conditions, like a pothole or broken traffic light, the city or government agency responsible for maintaining the roads could be liable.

Contact Our Atlanta Bus Accident Attorney Today

Types of Bus Accidents in Atlanta

There are different types of buses in Atlanta, and accidents can happen with any of them. Here are the most common types of bus accidents:

• School Bus Accidents: School buses transport children to and from school. Accidents involving school buses can be serious because young children are involved. In these cases, both the school district and the bus company might be responsible.
• Public Transportation Accidents (MARTA): MARTA operates buses across Atlanta. If you’re in an accident with a MARTA bus, you need to act quickly because claims against public transportation companies often have special deadlines and rules.
• Private Charter Bus Accidents: These buses are rented for long trips or special events. Private companies own them, and if you were injured in an accident involving a charter bus, the company that owns the bus might be held responsible.
• Shuttle or Tour Bus Accidents: Hotels, airports, and tourist companies often use shuttle or tour buses. Even though these buses are smaller, accidents involving them can still cause serious injuries. The companies running these buses are responsible for keeping them safe and ensuring drivers are trained.

Each bus accident is unique, and the legal process may be different depending on the type of bus. Our team have experience handling all types of bus accident cases and will fight to get the best result for you.

What are the Common Injuries in Bus Accidents in Georgia 

Bus accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, many of them severe. Here are some of the most common injuries that happen in bus accidents:

• Head and Brain Injuries: When someone hits their head during a bus crash, it can cause a concussion or even more serious brain injuries. These injuries can affect a person’s ability to think, work, or take care of themselves.
• Broken Bones: Because buses don’t usually have seat belts, passengers can be thrown around during a crash, leading to broken bones. These injuries often require long recoveries and might need surgery.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the back and spinal cord can lead to paralysis or long-term pain. These injuries often require expensive medical treatments and can change a person’s life forever.
• Cuts and Bruises: Flying glass, metal, or even other passengers can cause cuts and bruises during a bus accident. While these injuries might seem minor, they can still require medical attention and leave scars.
• Emotional Trauma: Being in a bus accident can be a very scary experience. Many victims suffer from emotional trauma, including anxiety and depression, long after the physical injuries have healed.

What to Do After a Bus Accident in Atlanta, Georgia

If you’ve been in a bus accident, it’s important to take the right steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Get Medical Help: Your health is the most important thing. Even if you don’t feel hurt right away, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, don’t show symptoms immediately.
2. Report the Accident: Make sure the police and the bus company are notified about the accident. This creates an official record of what happened, which is helpful if you decide to file a claim later.
3. Collect Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, the bus, and your injuries. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened.
4. Keep Track of Expenses: Save all your medical bills, receipts, and records of missed work. This will help show how much the accident has cost you, which is important for getting fair compensation.
5. Talk to a Lawyer: Bus accidents can be complicated, and having a lawyer on your side will make sure your rights are protected. A lawyer can help you file a claim and deal with the bus company and insurance companies.

At Wetherington Law Firm, we offer free consultations to review your case and discuss your options. We’ll make sure you take the right steps to protect your health and get the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with us today!

Contact Our Atlanta Bus Accident Attorney Today

Compensation for Bus Accident Victims in Georgia

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation is meant to help cover the costs of your injuries and any other losses caused by the accident. Here are the types of compensation you may be able to recover:

• Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical care related to your injury. If your injuries require long-term treatment or future medical care, you can also receive compensation for those costs.
• Lost Wages: If you’ve had to miss work because of your injuries, you can receive compensation for the income you’ve lost. This also includes any future wages you may lose if your injuries prevent you from working in the same capacity as before.
• Pain and Suffering: Bus accidents often result in more than just physical injuries. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain or emotional distress, you can be compensated for your pain and suffering.
• Property Damage: If any of your personal belongings were damaged in the accident, like your phone or clothing, you may be compensated for those losses.

Contact Our Atlanta Bus Accident Lawyer Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Atlanta, don’t wait to get the help you need. At Wetherington Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of personal injury cases can be, and we’re here to make the legal process easier for you. Our experienced Atlanta bus accident lawyer, Matt Wetherington will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Take the first step toward justice today. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us guide you through your options. You don’t pay unless we win your case. Call us at 404-888-4444 or fill out our online form now to get started. We’re ready to stand by your side.

Summary of Georgia’s Laws for Accidents

Driving While Intoxicated

OCGA 40-6-253 and OCGA 40-6-391

Speeding

OCGA 40-6-181

Using a Phone While Driving

OCGA 40-6-241

Failing to Yield to Pedestrians

OCGA 40-6-91, OCGA 40-6-92, OCGA 40-6-93, and OCGA 40-6-96

Failing to Obey a Traffic Official

OCGA 40-6-2

Conducting a Police Chase in a Reckless Manner

OCGA 40-6-6

Failing to Change Lanes to Give Space for Parked Emergency Vehicles and Construction Workers

OCGA 40-6-16 and OCGA 40-6-75

Tampering with or Stealing Road Signs

OCGA 40-6-26

Failing to Maintain One Lane

OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-48

Going the Wrong Way on a One-Way Road

OCGA 40-6-47 and OCGA 40-6-240

Driving a Tractor-Trailer or Bus in the Far-Left Lane(s)

OCGA 40-6-52

Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-74

Making an Improper U-Turn

OCGA 40-6-121

Failing to Exercise Due Caution Near Railroad Crossings

OCGA 40-6-140 and OCGA 40-6-142

Driving Too Slow in the Fast Lane

OCGA 40-6-184

Failing to Slow and Exercise Caution in Construction Zones

OCGA 40-6-188

Obstructing an Intersection

OCGA 40-6-205

Failing to Secure all Loads

OCGA 40-6-248.1 and OCGA 40-6-254

Driving Recklessly

OCGA 40-6-390

Causing Serious Injury by Vehicle

OCGA 40-6-394

Running a Red or Yellow Traffic Light

OCGA 40-6-20, OCGA 40-6-21, and OCGA 40-6-23

Traveling Too Close to Other Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-49

Running Stop and Yield Signs

OCGA 40-6-72

Failing to Yield to Other Vehicles

OCGA 40-6-70 and OCGA 40-6-73

Driving on the Shoulder, Gore, or Other Prohibited Areas

OCGA 40-6-50

Fleeing Police Officers

OCGA 40-6-395

Road Rage

OCGA 40-6-397

Tampering with Traffic Signals

OCGA 40-6-25, OCGA 40-6-17, and OCGA 40-6-396

Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road

OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-45

Passing Another Vehicle Improperly

OCGA 40-6-42, OCGA 40-6-43, OCGA 40-6-44, and OCGA 40-6-46

Going the Wrong Way in a Roundabout

OCGA 40-6-47

Turning the Wrong Way at an Intersection

OCGA 40-6-71 and OCGA 40-6-120

Failing to Yield to Funeral Processions

OCGA 40-6-76

Failing to Use Turn Signals

OCGA 40-6-123

Failing to Stop First Before Exiting a Parking Lot

OCGA 40-6-144

Drag Racing

OCGA 40-6-186

Parking a Vehicle in an Unsafe Place

OCGA 40-6-202

Driving a Vehicle with an Obstructed View

OCGA 40-6-242

Laying Drags or Intentionally Making Skid Marks

OCGA 40-6-251

Intentionally Striking and Killing a Person with a Vehicle

OCGA 40-6-393

Failing to Follow Pedestrian Traffic Signals

OCGA 40-6-22

Failing to Drive Motorcycles Safely

OCGA 40-6-310 and OCGA 40-6-311