Transit Accident Lawyers

 

Des Moines Transit Accident Lawyers

Though Des Moines is not known for offering many transit options, residents do have a few options for navigating the city. The most frequently used mode of public transportation is the Des Moines Area Regional Transport (DART).

When these buses are involved in collisions with other road users, they can cause serious injuries. Victims of these collisions have the right to pursue compensation through personal injury claims.

At Iowa Lawyers, we have years of experience helping injured people get the compensation they deserve. Whether you’re a driver, a pedestrian, a cyclist, or a passenger, we are here to help.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

Causes of Transit Accidents in Des Moines

Transit accidents in Des Moines, particularly involving the DART system, can occur due to many factors. Here are some common causes of transit accidents in Des Moines:

Driver Error

One of the most common causes of transit accidents is driver error. This can include:

• Distracted Driving: Bus drivers may become distracted by their surroundings, passengers, or personal devices, leading to accidents.
• Fatigue: Long hours and demanding schedules can result in driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making abilities.
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit, especially in urban areas, can lead to collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects.
• Inadequate Training: Drivers who are not adequately trained to handle the specific challenges of driving a bus may be more prone to mistakes that cause accidents.

Mechanical Failures

Buses, like all vehicles, require regular maintenance to operate safely. Mechanical failures can occur due to:

• Brake Failures: Ineffective brakes can make it difficult to stop the bus in time to avoid a collision.
• Steering Problems: Issues with the steering mechanism can result in loss of control over the vehicle.
• Engine Malfunctions: Engine problems can lead to unexpected breakdowns or loss of power while driving, increasing the risk of accidents.

Poor Road Conditions

The condition of the roads in Des Moines can significantly impact transit safety. Common road-related issues include:

• Potholes and Uneven Surfaces: These can cause buses to lose control or passengers to fall inside the bus.
• Inadequate Signage: Poor or missing traffic signs can lead to confusion and accidents at intersections and other critical points.
• Construction Zones: Ongoing construction projects can create hazardous conditions for buses, especially if detours are poorly marked.

Weather Conditions

Des Moines experiences a range of weather conditions that can affect transit safety, including:

• Rain and Wet Roads: Wet roads can reduce traction, making it harder for buses to stop quickly.
• Snow and Ice: Winter weather can create extremely hazardous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Fog and Reduced Visibility: Foggy conditions can make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles.

Passenger Behavior

Passengers themselves can sometimes contribute to accidents through:

• Distractions: Loud or disruptive behavior can distract the driver from focusing on the road.
• Obstructing the Driver: Passengers standing too close to the driver or interfering with the driver’s controls can lead to accidents.
• Sudden Movements: Passengers moving abruptly while the bus is in motion can cause the driver to lose control or make sudden maneuvers.

Other Drivers

Other drivers on the road can also be a significant factor in transit accidents, such as in cases involving:

• Reckless Driving: Cars weaving in and out of traffic or ignoring traffic signals can cause collisions with buses.
• Tailgating: Vehicles following too closely behind a bus can result in rear-end collisions if the bus stops suddenly.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to buses, especially at bus stops and intersections, can cause accidents.

The cause of the accident you’re involved in will determine what path you might take to get the compensation you’re entitled to. For example, if you’re a passenger on the bus and the driver of another vehicle causes your injury, you can seek payment from that driver’s insurance company.

Legal Options After a Transit Accident in Des Moines

If you’ve been injured in a transit accident in Des Moines, several legal options are available to pursue compensation for your injuries:

File a Claim Against the Transit Authority: If you were injured as a passenger on a public bus, you might have a claim against the Des Moines Area Regional Transit (DART) authority. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

File a Claim Against the Driver’s Insurance: If you were a DART passenger who was injured because of a passenger car driver’s negligence, the at-fault driver’s insurance might be liable for your injuries. This option allows you to seek compensation directly from the driver’s insurance policy.

Seek Compensation for Negligence in Maintenance: If the accident was due to poor maintenance of the bus or other transit equipment, you could file a claim against the party responsible for maintenance. This could be the transit authority or a contracted maintenance company.

Deciding which path to take to get the compensation you deserve might feel overwhelming. An experienced Des Moines personal injury lawyer can help you determine the best strategy for your case.

Legal Assistance for Des Moines Transit Accident Victims

An experienced attorney is vital in handling transit accident cases and guiding you through the legal process.

A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the incident by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and examining available surveillance footage to establish liability. By building a strong case, they can help prove negligence or fault on the part of the transit company, driver, or other responsible parties.

Compensation options for transit accident victims may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. An attorney will assess your injuries, the impact on your life, and financial losses to determine appropriate compensation. They will negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigate your case in court to ensure fair and just compensation.

Be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a transit accident lawsuit in Des Moines. In Iowa, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including transit accidents, is generally two years from the accident date. However, exceptions may apply, so consulting an attorney promptly is essential to protect your rights.

Contact Our Des Moines Transit Accident Lawyers Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident related to DART, a private bus company, or any other type of vehicle accident, Iowa Lawyers is here to help. We’ve built a reputation in Des Moines for the hard we do for our clients, and we strive to offer exceptional client service.

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe us nothing if you don’t win your case. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.