Alexandria Bus Accident Lawyer

ABC7 I-Team investigator Joce Sterman reports on the $4.5 million jury verdict attorney Joseph Cammarata secured for Sherry Galloway, a pedestrian struck by an Alexandria transit bus in a crosswalk. The I-Team investigation uncovered that the driver had four preventable accidents in eighteen months and was still permitted to operate the bus.

Video Transcript

Speakers: Joce Sterman, ABC7 Investigator & Joseph Cammarata

Joce Sterman, ABC7 Investigator (00:00): First at six bus drivers still on the road, despite multiple crashes while behind the wheel. ABC Seven’s, I-Team uncovered one driver’s record after she hit a woman with a bus seven on your side. Investigator Josie Sterman joins us. What she’s found out? Josie.

Joce Sterman (00:15): Well, Maureen, on the day that Dash driver had an accident in training, we got her report card and she still got mostly perfect marks from trainers at Alexandria Transit. This accident though, didn’t even count because it was in training still. The driver had three more preventable accidents in the year after that, but was still allowed to drive. And the I-Team discovered that’s standard operating procedure. What is she? An exclusive video obtained by the seven on your side. I-Team bus driver Bel Wonell. Darcy appears frantic in the seconds after hitting a woman in the crosswalk, pinning her under the bus for more than a minute.

Joseph Cammarata (00:50): It’s stunning. It’s horrifying, it’s breathtaking.

Joce Sterman (00:52): And DC attorney Joseph Camarata says, Alexandria Transit, the company operating that bus was negligent. He represents Sherry Galloway. The woman hit by the bus back in 2014 and recently awarded a $4.5 million judgment.

Joseph Cammarata (01:07): The jury recognized that this was an unfit, unsafe driver that should not have been put behind the wheel.

Joce Sterman (01:14): The I-Team has learned. Darcy, the driver, had a series of accidents leading up to the crash where Galloway was severely hurt an incident caught on video from inside the bus. Oh my God. Discipline records. We obtained show four other preventable accidents in a year and a half, including one in training,

Joseph Cammarata (01:32): One after the other. They just excused her behavior and put her back behind the wheel and now we have a more significant tragedy.

Joce Sterman (01:40): But the I-Team found it is consistent with Alexandria transit policy. Trainers expressed concern about Darcy’s driving, saying in records they were scared for themselves. She was even given written warnings and a suspension. But policy manuals we obtained show bus drivers can log as many as four preventable wrecks before being dismissed. Is there a need for changes?

Joseph Cammarata (02:01): Well, there’s a need for more vigilance. There’s a public trust that’s involved, and in this case, the public trust was broken.

Joce Sterman (02:09): Alexandria Transit told us it strives to provide safe and reliable bus service and that it will continue to use the industry’s best safety practices. So the possibility of accidents with pedestrians or other vehicles is minimized. They did not, however, answer our specific questions about how many drivers have been put back behind the wheel following accidents. But we are going to follow up. We’re also going to be watching an appeal that is scheduled for later on this month. Josie Sterman, ABC seven News.

Bus Accident Attorney Alexandria, VA

At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, a bus accident injury lawyer in Alexandria is available to represent victims of bus accidents. Our lawyers have decades of experience vigorously representing those injured due to a bus crash or collision.

Our Alexandria bus accident attorneys understand the complexity involved after a serious bus accident. They are dedicated to providing a high level of legal service to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients. We deeply understand bus accident law, including those involving a Metrobus, DASH Bus, Alexandria Transit Company, school buses, or a private charter bus company.

If you have been injured in a bus-related accident, an attorney at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel P.C. can help. We make sure you receive the compensation you are entitled to for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and any other costs related to the bus accident. Contact our team for a free consultation today.

What To Do After A Bus Accident In Alexandria, Virginia

If you or a loved one have been injured in a bus accident, it’s essential to take a few steps right away:

1. Seek medical help for any injuries

2. Take pictures or video of the scene and damage inflicted

3. Document all conversations with witnesses, medical staff, law enforcement, and insurance companies

4. Refrain from speaking with the at-fault party’s insurance company

5. Secure representation from a qualified lawyer

At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel P.C., our experienced bus accident lawyers are available to discuss your case and advise you on the best way to proceed.

bus accident scene where people may need a bus accident lawyer

Do I Need An Alexandria Bus Accident Lawyer?

If a bus accident in Alexandria, VA, caused you or a loved one to suffer a serious injury, you must know your legal rights and seek representation from a qualified bus accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help negotiate a fair settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company and ensure you receive a favorable outcome.

Contact an expert attorney at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel today to schedule a free case review. Our Alexandria bus accident lawyers are dedicated to providing a high level of legal service and will fight for the justice you deserve.

What Do Bus Accident Attorneys Do?

The attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel P.C. represent victims of bus accidents. Our lawyers investigate the scene of a bus collision and compile a comprehensive case to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Investigate The Accident

An Alexandria bus accident lawyer at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel will investigate the bus accident scene and determine fault. We have extensive experience identifying negligent parties in various scenarios and use this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.

Determine Fault

An attorney will determine who is at fault for the accident. We understand that multiple parties can be responsible for a bus crash, including the driver, a maintenance provider, or the bus operator. We work to identify any negligent parties and hold them accountable for their actions.

File A Claim

Once the fault has been established, an attorney can help you file a bus accident claim against the at-fault party. Our Alexandria bus accident lawyers will fight for a fair settlement and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We understand how to negotiate with insurance companies and work hard to protect your rights.

Negotiate A Settlement

An attorney can negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company. We understand how to navigate the legal system and ensure that you receive a fair outcome for your case. Our team is committed to fighting for justice on your behalf and ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

Represent You In Court

Our lawyers will represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached. We have extensive experience navigating the legal system and understand how to present your case in a persuasive manner. Our bus accident attorneys are dedicated to achieving justice for you and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Provides You With Legal Advice And Support

At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, a bus accident attorney is available to discuss your case and advise you on the best way to proceed. We provide comprehensive legal advice and support throughout the entire process so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Our lawyers have decades of experience representing victims of bus accidents and can help you get the justice you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, contact an experienced Alexandria bus accident attorney at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel today for a free case review.

Determining Fault In An Alexandria Bus Accident

An Alexandria bus accident case can be complicated due to the number of potentially responsible parties involved. Our bus accident attorneys thoroughly investigate each case and determine who is at fault for the crash. We identify any negligent parties, such as the bus driver, maintenance provider, or bus operator, who may have caused or contributed to the accident. By determining fault, we can ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Who Can Be Held Liable In A Bus Accident Case?

Any party who contributed to the crash can be liable for damages. This includes the driver of the bus, the bus operator, or another driver on the road who caused or contributed to the accident.

The Bus Driver

The bus driver is often the first party to be held liable in a bus accident case. Bus drivers are responsible for driving safely and adhering to all relevant laws and regulations while operating their vehicles. If the driver fails to do so, they can be held accountable for any injuries or damages that result from their negligence.

The Bus Company

Bus companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers and maintaining their buses in a safe condition. If the company fails to do so, it may be held liable if an accident occurs due to its negligence.

Drivers Of Other Vehicles

In some cases, other drivers on the road may be at fault for a bus accident. If another driver was negligent or reckless in their actions and it contributed to the crash, they may be held liable for any damages that result.

Government Agencies

Government agencies may sometimes be held liable for a bus accident. If the road or traffic signals were not maintained correctly and contributed to an accident, the responsible agency could face legal action for any damages that result.

Bus Manufacturers

In some cases, a bus manufacturer can also be held liable for an accident. If a defect in the bus or its components caused or contributed to the crash, they may be responsible for any damages that result.

a bus displaying what vehicle would be involved in a bus accident case

Compensation Available For Bus Accident Victims In Alexandria, VA

Bus accident victims in Alexandria, Virginia, may be entitled to compensation for various losses. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys work with you to build a comprehensive case for damages so that you can receive the total amount of compensation you are owed.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are intended to reimburse the victim for any financial losses they have incurred due to the accident. This can include the following:

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses include hospital bills, medications, medical devices, and rehabilitative treatments.

Lost Wages

If the victim cannot work due to their injuries, they can seek compensation for any wages or benefits lost due to the accident.

Property Damage

Any damage to the victim’s personal property, such as their vehicle or clothing, can be compensated.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are intended to compensate the victim for any non-financial losses they have suffered due to the accident. This can include:

Pain And Suffering

The victim may be entitled to compensation for any physical or emotional pain and suffering caused by the accident. Traumatic brain injuries, chronic pain, and broken bones are all examples of the pain and suffering a victim may experience and deserve compensaion for.

Emotional Distress

Emotional distress refers to the psychological harm a person may experience due to the accident. Emotional distress may manifest in various ways, such as anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, fear, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Loss Of Companionship

The victim may be entitled to compensation for any loss of companionship or enjoyment of life resulting from the accident.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are intended to punish and deter a defendant from engaging in similar conduct in the future. In some cases, punitive damages may be available in bus accident cases, if there is evidence of recklessness or willful or wanton conduct.

How Much Is My Bus Accident Claim Worth?

The amount of compensation you may be entitled to in a bus accident case depends on the facts and circumstances of your particular situation. Generally, it will depend on the extent of your injuries and damages and any available insurance coverage. Our attorneys can review the specific details of your case and provide an estimate of what you can expect to receive in a settlement.

Common Causes Of Bus Accidents In Alexandria, VA

A variety of factors may cause bus accidents in Alexandria, Virginia. Common causes include:

• Driver Negligence: This includes speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving.

• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Mechanical failures due to inadequate bus maintenance can cause an accident.

• Poor Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, and other hazardous road conditions can contribute to an accident.

• Driver Fatigue: Bus drivers are often required to work long hours, which can lead to fatigue and drowsiness.

• Poor Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, such as snow or heavy rain, can make driving difficult.

• Vehicle Defects: Defects in the design or manufacture of a bus can cause an accident.

If you have been injured in a bus accident, our attorneys can help. We will investigate the causes of your accident and work to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Contact us today to get started.

Common Injuries From A Bus Accident

In Alexandria, VA, bus accidents can result in severe injuries for the victims. Common bus accident injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): A TBI is caused by a blow to the head and can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the impact.

• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and chronic pain.

• Broken Bones: A bus accident can cause broken bones or fractures throughout the body.

• Internal Injuries: The force of a bus accident can cause internal bleeding or organ damage.

• Soft Tissue Injuries: The impact of an accident can cause damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

• Psychological Injuries: The trauma of a bus accident can result in psychological conditions such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you have been injured in a bus accident, contact an experienced Alexandria personal injury attorney who can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

injured man speaking with a bus accident lawyer — Compensation Money And Litigation. Employment Health Coverage

Contact The Alexandria Bus Accident Lawyers You Can Count On!

If you or someone you know has been injured in a bus accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can help. At The Law Firm of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C., we have extensive experience helping victims of bus accidents get the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Our attorneys will fight for your rights and work to get you the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you. We keep our call center open 24/7 so you never have to wait for answers or guidance.

Get free advice about the compensation you deserve.

At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf.