Our Oregon bus accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman know that pursuing a public transportation agency for an accident with injuries requires determining whether the driver, company or other entity was liable for the crash and our client’s injuries and damages.
Depending on the nature of the accident, personal injuries can occur to passengers and non-passengers alike, including other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists traveling alongside these large transit vehicles.
If you have been injured in a public transportation accident, taking the proper steps to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and potentially pursue compensation for your injuries is crucial.
Here is how you can get started.
Notify the Authorities
Chances are, the proper authorities — including the bus or train company investigators — will appear on the scene immediately after learning of the crash. If your injuries allow, stay behind and notify the authorities you were injured in the accident so they have a record of your involvement. They will create an official incident report, essential for insurance claims and legal actions.
When speaking to authorities or transportation company representatives, provide only factual information without making assumptions about fault or liability. Avoid giving recorded statements without consulting an attorney.
Collect Information from the Crash Scene
Note the time, date, location, and accident details, and obtain as much information as possible from the scene. This includes other passengers’ names, contact information, witnesses, and transportation personnel. If you are physically able, take photos or videos of the accident scene, injuries, vehicle damage, and anything relevant to the incident. Visual evidence can be invaluable later.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you are injured, your health should be your top priority. Seek medical attention immediately by calling an ambulance or going to the nearest hospital. Even if your injuries seem minor, some symptoms might not immediately appear and require a complete evaluation from professional medical physicians. Maintain a detailed record of all interactions, medical treatments, bills, and expenses related to the accident. This will be important for building your case.
Do Not Sign or Agree to Anything
Avoid signing documents or accepting settlements from the transportation company or insurers without consulting an attorney first.
Contact Our Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers in Oregon for Help Today
Contact our Oregon personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman at (503) 242-1440 or online today to schedule a free consultation and get the help you need to make informed decisions about the direction of your case and navigate the complex process of seeking compensation.
