Bus Accident Lawyer in Halifax

Fighting for Bus Accident Victims in Nova Scotia

Bus accidents can be life-altering events that leave victims facing significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Have you or a loved one been injured in a bus accident? In that case, you need a team of experienced, compassionate lawyers who understand the complexities of personal injury law and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve.

At McKiggan Hebert Lawyers, our Halifax bus accident lawyers help you navigate the legal process confidently and efficiently. Whether you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or in another vehicle involved in the accident, we are here to fight for your rights and pursue justice on your behalf.

A bus accident can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you with the consequences. Whether you were on a city bus, a school bus, or a charter bus, our team of skilled Nova Scotia bus accident lawyers is prepared to represent your interests. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.

Understanding Bus Accidents in Halifax and Nova Scotia

Various factors, including driver error, vehicle malfunction, or hazardous road conditions, can cause bus accidents. In Nova Scotia, both municipal and private bus companies are held to higher safety standards. When they fail to meet these standards, passengers and others involved in the accident can suffer serious consequences. Common causes of bus accidents include:

Driver negligence: Distracted driving, speeding, alcohol or drug-impaired driving, and other forms of negligence can lead to catastrophic accidents.

Bus maintenance issues: Failure to properly maintain buses can result in accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Road conditions: Poor road conditions, including icy roads, debris, and improper signage, can contribute to accidents.
Pedestrian or cyclist accidents: Bus accidents often involve pedestrians or cyclists, which can result in severe injuries.

Compensation Available to Bus Accident Victims in Canada

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Future medical care and rehabilitation
Loss of enjoyment of life
Property damage

Common Injuries in Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including:

Whiplash: Sudden impact can cause strain on the neck and spine, leading to whiplash.
Broken bones: The force of a bus crash can result in fractures, particularly to the limbs, ribs, or pelvis.
Head injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures are common in bus accidents.
Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or other long-term consequences.
Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruising can occur from being thrown or jostled during the accident.
Internal injuries: Bus accidents can cause damage to internal organs, requiring immediate medical attention.

The severity of your injuries can have a profound impact on your life, so it’s critical to seek medical treatment immediately after the accident.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect for My Bus Accident Case?

The compensation from a bus accident will reflect several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the long-term impact the injuries caused on your life experience, and the degree of negligence involved. Compensation covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

To determine the amount, we will review the facts of your case, including your medical records, the impact on your daily life, and any future medical needs. We will work with medical experts, economists, and other professionals to accurately calculate your damages and pursue the maximum compensation possible.

What Is the Typical Timeline for a Bus Accident Case?

The timeline for resolving a bus accident claim can vary from several months to a few years, depending on the case’s complexity and whether it requires litigation or can be settled without taking it to court. During your first free consultation with McKiggan Herbert Lawyers, we will discuss the unique qualities of your case that can shorten or lengthen the process. When we take on a bus accident claim, we begin by conducting a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, and consulting with experts. We will then negotiate with the bus insurance company for the highest amount available under the law.

If a fair settlement is not offered, we can take the case to court to fight for just compensation. We will inform you of the progress throughout the case and update you on any significant developments. We prioritize resolving your case as efficiently as possible while not backing down to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Evidence Do I Need to Provide to Support My Claim?

To build a strong case, the more evidence you can provide, the better. The better firm you hire, the more likely they will be able to collect what you need to succeed. At McKiggan Herbert Lawyers, we are 100 percent invested in your success and don’t get a dime unless you win. Key pieces of evidence we will collect for you include:

Police report: These will document the details of the accident, including who was at fault.
Medical records: We’ll gather a detailed history of your injuries and treatment, including ongoing care and long-term prognosis.
Witness statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, we may be able to use their testimony to support your case.
Photos and video: We will collect available photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and property damage from you or others present. Dashcam footage or security camera videos from nearby locations can prove crucial in proving your case.
Insurance information: We will collect the insurance details from the bus company or involved parties.

We will gather the necessary evidence and manage the investigation’s legal aspects, so you don’t have to worry about the paperwork.

What Happens If the Other Party Refuses to Settle?

If the bus company or insurance provider refuses to make a fair settlement, we will take your case to court. Insurance companies often offer low settlements or may deny responsibility, hoping the injured party will accept a lesser amount. We will never settle for less than what you deserve.

At McKiggan Hebert Lawyers, we have a proven track record of fighting large companies and their insurers. If they refuse to do what is fair, we will go to trial and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

Types of Damages Available to Bus Accident Victims in Nova Scotia

You may be entitled to recover several damages in a bus accident case.

Medical expenses: All past and future medical bills related to your injuries.
Lost wages: Compensation for wages you have lost due to your injuries, including any future income losses if you cannot return to work.
Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident.
Property damage: If your personal property, like a vehicle or individual items, was damaged in the accident, we will seek reimbursement for these losses.
Punitive damages: In some cases, if the bus company or driver acted with gross negligence, we may pursue punitive damages, which are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behaviour in the future.

We will evaluate your case’s circumstances to determine the appropriate damages and ensure that every aspect of your loss is covered.

Who Is Liable in a Bus Accident Case?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be involved. Our team at McKiggan Hebert Lawyers carefully investigates every aspect of the accident to identify who is responsible for your injuries.

Bus driver liability: If the bus driver’s negligence contributed to the accident, such as distracted driving, speeding, or failing to follow traffic laws, they may be held directly responsible. We review driver logs, training records, and any history of prior violations to understand whether the driver’s actions played a role in the accident.
Bus company liability: The company that owns or operates the bus may be liable if they fail to maintain the vehicle properly or hire unqualified or untrained drivers. Companies are responsible for ensuring their buses are safe and that their drivers are adequately trained. We examine maintenance logs, hiring practices, and company policies to uncover negligence.
Other drivers or third parties: When another driver caused or contributed to the accident, they may share responsibility. Third parties, such as contractors responsible for bus maintenance or manufacturers of defective bus parts, could also be liable.
Government entities: Poor road conditions or inadequate signage can contribute to bus accidents. In such cases, a municipality or government agency responsible for road maintenance may be partially liable.

Our team gathers evidence, such as accident reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert opinions, to build a strong case. We leave no stone unturned to ensure that every responsible party is held accountable.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

You may still be eligible for compensation under Nova Scotia’s Contributory Negligence Act if you were partially at fault for the bus accident. The legal principle covered in the law allows injured parties to recover damages even if they share some responsibility for the accident.

Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are 25% at fault, you would receive 75% of the total damages. Determining fault is not always straightforward, and insurance companies may try to place more blame on you to lower the amount they are forced to pay victims. Our firm will protect your rights at every phase of the process.

Our experienced lawyers will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to present a clear, evidence-based account of what happened. We work with accident reconstruction experts and gather witness testimony to challenge unfair claims against you.

Even if you think you may be partially responsible, seeking legal advice is essential. You can pursue compensation for your injuries, losses, and pain and suffering. We are here to guide you through the process and fight for the fair outcome you deserve.

What Happens if I Can’t Afford a Lawyer?

We understand that you may be facing financial difficulties due to your injuries, and we don’t want legal fees to hinder getting the help you need. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay anything upfront.

Instead, we only get paid if we successfully secure compensation for you, and our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we win. This ensures you don’t have to worry about paying for legal services while focusing on your recovery. If you are concerned about costs, we are happy to discuss how the contingency fee system works and explain that there are no hidden fees. We aim to make legal representation accessible to everyone and allow everyone a chance to obtain the justice and compensation they deserve.

Why Hire McKiggan Hebert Lawyers?

At McKiggan Hebert Lawyers, we are committed to helping victims of bus accidents in Halifax and across Nova Scotia. The top reasons clients choose us to handle their case include:

Experienced Legal Team

Our team of personal injury lawyers has extensive experience handling bus accident cases. We understand the complexities of transportation law and have successfully secured compensation for clients in similar cases. Partner Brian Hebert brings extensive trial experience and a flawless record; he has not lost a jury trial. He thrives on advocating for his clients in court, taking on insurance companies head-to-head. His greatest satisfaction comes from securing compensation for those who need and deserve it most.

Proven Track Record

We’ve achieved significant settlements and verdicts for our clients, providing them with the financial compensation they need to move forward after a traumatic event. John McKiggan has a proven track record of securing substantial settlements for his clients, including the two largest reported personal injury settlements in Nova Scotia: Chisholm v Ball et al. ($6 million) and Rankin v Joshi et al. ($5.8 million).

No Win, No Fee

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This ensures that you can pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal costs. We know that worrying about your recovery is enough stress as it is.

Personalized Attention

We treat every case with the utmost care and attention. From your initial consultation to the final resolution of your case, we will provide personalized legal guidance and support. With our law firm, you will have the same personal injury lawyer and dedicated staff assistant handling your case from start to finish. You will get a chance to get to know your attorney and vice versa, as he helps take all the stress and legal pressure off your shoulders.

Client-Centered Approach

We understand the emotional and physical toll a bus accident can have on you and your family. Our lawyers will handle all aspects of your case while you focus on recovering and getting your life back on track. If you need any legal help or have questions, we are here so you can feel confident that everything is being taken care of exactly as it should be.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

After hiring McKiggan Hebert Lawyers, we will guide you through the legal process. The actions we take can include all of the following:

Investigation: We will thoroughly investigate the accident, including reviewing police reports, obtaining medical records, and interviewing witnesses. We may call on professional accident reconstruction experts when necessary.
Negotiation: We will negotiate with the insurance company to seek a fair and full settlement.
Litigation: We will take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Our experienced trial lawyers will fight for your rights before a judge and jury.

The Importance of Acting Quickly in Bus Accident Claims

In Nova Scotia, there are strict time limits for filing personal injury claims. If you delay too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation. That’s why contacting McKiggan Hebert Lawyers is crucial as soon as possible after a bus accident. The sooner you reach out to us the sooner we can get to work gathering and preserving evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.

Contact McKiggan Hebert Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident, don’t wait—contact McKiggan Hebert Lawyers today for a free consultation. Our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers will provide the support and legal expertise you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (902) 706 – 2298. You can also schedule a consultation via our online form.

Let McKiggan Hebert Lawyers be your advocate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Time Limit to File a Bus Accident Claim in Nova Scotia?

You generally have two years from the accident date to file a claim under Nova Scotia’s Limitation of Actions Act. However, certain exceptions may apply depending on the specifics of your case. Seeking legal advice as soon as possible is crucial to meet all deadlines. Acting early also allows our team to gather fresh evidence and build the strongest case possible on your behalf.

Will I Have to Go to Court for My Bus Accident Case?

Most bus accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without the need for a trial. However, if the insurance company refuses fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to court.

Will I Need to Testify In Court for My Bus Accident Claim?

If a bus accident claim goes to court, you may need to testify as part of the legal process. Testifying can help provide a firsthand account of the accident and how your injuries have affected your life. Your dedicated lawyer will prepare you beforehand, guiding you on what to expect and how to present your testimony. Many cases settle before trial, but if testifying is necessary, we will support you every step of the way.

What Should I Do If the Insurance Company Contacts Me?

If the bus company’s insurance adjuster contacts you, it’s important not to provide any statements or accept settlement offers without consulting your lawyer first. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto victims. Direct all communications to our team, and we will handle negotiations to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire McKiggan Hebert Lawyers?

We offer free consultations to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive payment if we successfully recover compensation for you. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about legal fees during recovery.

How Will You Keep Me Updated on My Case?

We prioritize clear and consistent communication with our clients. You will receive regular updates on the progress of your case, including any settlement offers, investigation developments, and next steps. Our team is always available to answer your questions by phone, email, or in-person meetings to ensure you feel informed and supported.

Can Family Members File a Claim if a Loved One Dies in a Bus Accident?

If you have lost a loved one in a bus accident, certain family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim under Nova Scotia’s Fatal Injuries Act. Compensation can cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. Our compassionate team will guide your family through the legal process with care and dedication. We are deeply sorry for your loss; reach out to us today at (902) 706 – 2298 to see what your legal options are to seek justice and peace of mind in your loved one’s memory.

What If a Government Entity Operated the Bus?

Bus accident claims involving government-operated transit systems may have different procedures and shorter deadlines. Filing a claim against a government entity often requires providing notice within a specific time limit. Our experienced lawyers understand the unique legal requirements of these cases and will ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights. Our best advice is to act as fast as possible, particularly regarding government-related claims.

Can I Claim Compensation for Psychological Trauma After a Bus Accident?

Yes, compensation for psychological trauma such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress may be available in addition to physical injuries. We work with medical experts to document the full extent of your emotional suffering and pursue appropriate compensation for your mental health recovery.

How Can I Prove the Bus Driver Was Negligent?

Proving negligence often requires evidence such as driver logs, maintenance records, witness statements, and expert testimony. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate every aspect of the accident to identify any violations of safety regulations or faulty company policies that may have contributed to the crash.