If taking public transportation through RTC Transit in Las Vegas results in an accident with injuries or property damage, you may be eligible for financial compensation as a victim. It is important to recognize how these accidents differ from typical car accident cases in Nevada. You may need to hire an experienced Las Vegas personal attorney to help you go up against the government following an RTC Transit crash.
What Are Common Causes of RTC Transit Accidents?
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) owns several forms of public transportation that operate in the Las Vegas metropolitan area. This includes fixed bus routes, express and on-demand services, paratransit for individuals with disabilities, and airport transit. Like other types of motor vehicle accidents, RTC Transit accidents often involve human error. Common causes include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving or inattention
- Illegal cell phone use while driving
- Ignoring traffic signs and signals
- Drowsy driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Reckless driving or road rage
- Poor bus driver training
- Bus breakdowns and equipment failures
- Hazardous road conditions
An RTC Transit accident can be caused by the operator of the bus or the driver of another car. It could also stem from issues with the bus or the road. No matter what the cause, injured bus passengers may be entitled to financial compensation for their losses. Reach out to our Las Vegas bus accident lawyer for a free consultation.
Types of Injuries From RTC Transit Accidents
Every year, thousands of emergency department visits occur in Nevada due to motor vehicle accidents. Bus accidents are particularly dangerous due to the size of the bus and the lack of seat belts to protect passengers. Common injuries suffered in accidents involving RTC Transit vehicles are:
- Whiplash
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Nerve damage
- Internal injuries
- Burn injuries
- Lacerations
- Amputations
- Psychological trauma
Sadly, some accidents with RTC Transit vehicles are fatal. This is especially true when city bus accidents involve vulnerable bicyclists and pedestrians in Las Vegas.
Who to Hold Responsible for an RTC Transit Accident
RTC Transit accidents in Las Vegas involve more than just two drivers, unlike other car accident cases. If you get hurt by an RTC-owned vehicle, you may be able to hold the government agency responsible. A public transportation company can be held accountable for accidents involving their vehicles and drivers. Bringing a claim against the government can be complicated. Under the rules of the Nevada Tort Claims Act, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a notice of your claim with the correct government entity. Your claim should be accompanied by supporting documentation, such as your medical records, a police report and eyewitness statements. Information to include are the bus or vehicle number, route information, bus driver details, and phone numbers for fellow passengers. Once your claim is received, RTC Transit will conduct an investigation and accept or reject liability. Before you accept a quick settlement, it is vital to have your case reviewed by an experienced attorney in your city.
When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
RTC Transit and other government-owned agencies can be difficult to go up against as an injured accident victim. It is important to protect yourself with high-quality legal representation. You can trust an attorney to handle an insurance company for you. A lawyer can negotiate a fair and full settlement that pays for your past and future medical bills, property repairs and other losses. With a lawyer fighting in your corner, you can focus on what matters most. Arrange a free consultation with an RTC Transit attorney in Las Vegas to learn more. Contact Koch & Brim, LLP today.