Glendale Bus Accident Lawyers

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Crash—Driver, City, or Transit Company?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be more complex than in a regular car crash. In Glendale, depending on the circumstances, one or more parties may be held legally responsible:

• Bus Driver if they were distracted, speeding, impaired, or failed to follow safety protocols.
• Transit Company or School District if the driver was improperly trained, overworked, or if vehicle maintenance was neglected.
• City or Government Agency for accidents involving Valley Metro buses or school buses operated by public entities. Liability can also arise from unsafe road conditions or poor traffic signal timing.
• Another Driver who caused the crash by running a red light or engaging in reckless behavior.
• Bus or Parts Manufacturer in cases involving brake failure, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues.

Multiple parties may share responsibility, and each will have their own insurer and legal defense. Our Glendale bus accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify every liable entity and build a case that reflects the full picture.

Injured in a bus crash in Glendale? Contact Thompson Law for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What Kind of Compensation Can Bus Crash Victims Recover?

Bus accidents often involve multiple passengers, high-impact collisions, and serious injuries. If you were hurt in one, you may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages:

• Medical bills, including ER visits, surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care
• Lost income if your injuries kept you from working
• Reduced earning capacity if your ability to work in the future is affected
• Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll of your injuries
• Property damage to your vehicle or personal belongings
• Wrongful death damages if a loved one was killed in a bus-related crash

The value of your claim will depend on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the crash, and who was at fault. We work with medical and financial experts to document every loss.

Let our Glendale bus accident attorneys calculate the compensation you’re owed. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best bus accident law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated bus accident injury attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a bus accident case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s Glendale personal injury lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated bus accident attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Crashes Involving School, City, or Tour Buses: Key Differences

Not all buses are the same under Arizona law, and neither are the legal processes that follow a crash:

• School Bus Accidents often involve government-operated fleets and strict safety regulations. Claims may be filed against a public school district and are subject to shorter legal deadlines.
• City Bus Accidents involving Valley Metro or municipal transit services typically fall under government liability rules. Filing a Notice of Claim within 180 days is required.
• Private or Tour Bus Accidents may involve out-of-state companies, third-party operators, or commercial carriers. These cases follow standard personal injury rules but can involve complicated insurance structures.

Each type of crash comes with different legal standards, insurance requirements, and timelines. It’s important to understand which rules apply to your situation.

Not sure what type of bus was involved? Contact our Glendale bus accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What Happens When a Government Entity Is Involved in a Glendale Bus Accident?

When a city-owned vehicle or government agency is involved in a crash, such as Valley Metro or a public school district, Arizona law imposes stricter rules:

• Notice of Claim must be filed within 180 days of the accident or your claim may be barred
• Damages may be capped under Arizona statutes if public funds are involved
• Government immunity defenses may be raised to limit or deny liability
• Additional documentation may be needed, including records of training, vehicle inspections, and prior incidents

These cases are more complex and move quickly. The city or state will have its own legal team. You need someone in your corner who understands how to hold public entities accountable.

Were you injured in a bus crash involving a city or school agency? Call our Glendale bus accident attorneys now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What to Do If Your Child Was Injured in a School Bus Incident in Glendale

Few situations are more stressful than learning your child has been hurt in a school bus crash. Glendale parents deserve clear guidance when safety fails.

Here’s what to do:

1. Seek immediate medical care, even for minor symptoms, as head or spinal injuries may not appear right away.
2. Get a copy of the police or school incident report to document the event.
3. Preserve all communication with the school, bus driver, and district representatives.
4. Document your child’s recovery with photos, journal entries, and treatment records.
5. Talk to a lawyer before accepting any settlement or signing paperwork from the school district or insurer.

Because school buses are often operated by public entities, these cases fall under special timelines. The 180-day Notice of Claim rule may apply, and the claim process can be highly technical.

Let us protect your child’s rights. Contact Thompson Law today for a FREE CASE REVIEW with our Glendale bus accident lawyers.

Glendale Traffic Laws and Transit Regulations That Could Affect Your Case

When you’re pursuing a claim after a bus crash in Glendale, city ordinances and transit regulations could impact how your case is handled and who may be held accountable.

From how vehicles are allowed to operate near public carriers to the legal framework around reporting incidents and safety zones, Glendale’s local laws provide key context for bus accident claims.

Regulations Around Bus Stops and Loading Zones

City code prohibits parking in designated public carrier stops, such as bus stops, unless the vehicle is a designated public transit carrier like Valley Metro. This rule helps reduce the risk of collisions involving buses by keeping their access points clear. Any vehicle found in violation may be cited under Sec. 24-153.

Strict Loading and Unloading Rules

Under Sec. 24-151 and 24-152, vehicles may only stop briefly in curb loading zones, three minutes for passengers or five minutes for those with disabled placards. Misuse of these zones, particularly in busy areas, could complicate or contribute to a crash, especially when buses are boarding or exiting passengers near businesses or residential properties.

Liability in Parking and Access Disputes

In some cases, bus accidents may occur near or on private property. Glendale’s Sec. 26-2 clearly states that unauthorized parking on private property is illegal and can result in fines. If a bus is struck by a car exiting an improperly parked position or navigating an off-limits area, fault could shift based on this violation.

Reporting Requirements and False Claims

It is illegal under Sec. 26-21to knowingly make false or misleading reports to Glendale Police. This law becomes relevant if conflicting witness accounts or exaggerated claims arise following a crash. Ensuring accurate, timely police reports is critical in strengthening a personal injury claim.

City Ordinances and Government Entity Involvement

If the crash involves a city-owned bus or a city-operated stop, liability can also be influenced by special protections under governmental tort laws. Timely notice of claim, typically within 180 days, may be required. Glendale’s transit-related ordinances (combined with Arizona state law) can determine how a public entity is treated differently than a private party.

Public Safety Rules That May Influence Crash Risk

Other Glendale codes indirectly related to bus safety include prohibitions on fireworks near roadways (Sec. 26-70.3) and aggressive solicitation near bus stops (Sec. 26-74), both of which can create distracting or hazardous environments for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Bus crashes often involve more than just vehicle speed and driver reaction—they can hinge on legal technicalities, local violations, or city policies. That’s why understanding the broader regulatory landscape is so important when building your case.

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident in Glendale, consult with a local legal professional who understands both personal injury law and the city’s detailed municipal code.

Reach out to our Glendale bus accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Dangerous Intersections in Glendale Where Bus Accidents Are Common

Certain intersections in Glendale see repeated bus-related incidents due to high traffic volumes, limited visibility, or frequent signal violations. Locations that have posed ongoing risks include:

• 83rd Avenue and Bell Road
• 59th Avenue and Bell Road
• 59th Avenue and Olive Avenue
• 51st Avenue and Northern Avenue
• 51st Avenue and Olive Avenue
• 67th Avenue and Bell Road
• 59th Avenue and Thunderbird Road
• 67th Avenue and Bethany Home Road

These roads are often shared by school buses, public transit, and heavy vehicle traffic, increasing the chance of serious collisions during peak hours.

If your accident occurred near one of these intersections or on a major transit route, there may be traffic camera footage, witness statements, and road design issues to consider in your case.

Injured near a dangerous Glendale intersection? Contact Thompson Law’s bus accident lawyers in Glendale now for a FREE CASE REVIEW

Glendale Bus Accident Statistics and Transit Crash Trends

In 2023, Maricopa County, which includes Glendale, recorded 87,237 total crashes, the highest in Arizona. Of these, 647 were fatal, and 25,456 resulted in injuries, making up nearly 71% of the state’s total crashes​.

Specifically in Glendale:

• There were 5,150 reported crashes in 2023.
• 38 were fatal, and 1,496 led to injuries.
• 212 crashes were alcohol-related, with 12 fatalities and 121 injuries tied to those incidents​.

Statewide, multi-unit crashes (which include bus and vehicle collisions) made up over 84% of all crashes, highlighting the frequency of incidents involving more than one vehicle. Notably:

• Collision with another motor vehicle was the leading cause of crashes, accounting for 94,385 incidents, with 538 of them fatal.
• Crashes involving pedestrians had a fatality rate of over 14%, while bus-related incidents, often involving large, less-maneuverable vehicles, pose similar risks in urban zones​.

Urban environments like Glendale remain hotspots:

• Urban areas accounted for 86.18% of all crashes statewide.
• They also saw 802 fatal crashes and 31,705 injury crashes, underscoring the risks in densely populated regions​.

Involved in a transit-related crash in Glendale? Get a FREE CASE REVIEW with our local bus accident attorneys who know the data and how to fight for your recovery. Contact Thompson Law today.

How Our Glendale Bus Accident Attorneys Build Strong Claims

Bus crash cases require more than a police report and a medical bill. At Thompson Law, we take a comprehensive, evidence-driven approach to personal injury claims.

Here’s how we build strong cases for Glendale clients:

• Scene investigation and video retrieval from traffic cameras or nearby businesses
• Vehicle inspection records from school districts or Valley Metro for maintenance issues
• Driver logs and training documentation to uncover fatigue or lack of qualification
• Medical evaluations that tie your injuries directly to the crash
• Expert testimony when fault or severity of injuries is in dispute

We also coordinate with accident reconstruction experts to paint a clear picture of how the crash occurred and who is legally responsible.

Let our experience work for you. Contact our Glendale bus accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Where to Get Emergency Treatment After a Bus Accident in Glendale

Following a bus crash, getting immediate medical attention is essential—not just for your health but also for your legal claim. Emergency treatment centers in and around Glendale include:

• HonorHealth Deer Valley Medical Center
• Abrazo Arrowhead Campus
• Banner Thunderbird Medical Center
• St. Joseph’s Westgate Medical Center

Documenting your injuries early builds a clear timeline and ensures insurers or opposing counsel can’t argue they were unrelated.

Been injured in a Glendale bus accident? Seek medical help, then call Thompson Law for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How to Request an Official Bus Crash Report from Glendale Police

Obtaining the official accident report is a key step in your injury claim. In Glendale, you can request a police report through:

• Online:  Submit a Public Records Request through the Glendale Police Records Portal.
• In Person or by Mail:  Visit or send your request to: Glendale Police Department, 6835 N. 57th Drive, Glendale, AZ 85301
• By Phone:  Call the Records Division directly at (623) 930-3000 for assistance.

Include as much detail as possible (such as date, location, and involved vehicle types) to avoid delays. Note that Valley Metro and school bus crashes may also involve supplemental reports from transit or school safety officials.

Need help getting your bus crash report? Let Thompson Law handle the paperwork. Contact us now for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What to Expect When Filing a Claim for a Glendale Bus Crash

Filing a personal injury claim after a bus accident isn’t always straightforward, especially when government agencies or multiple parties are involved. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation:  We assess your injuries, collect facts, and explain your options.
2. Evidence Gathering:  This includes witness interviews, crash reports, and surveillance footage.
3. Filing the Claim:  If a public entity is involved, a Notice of Claim may be required within 180 days.
4. Negotiations:  We handle discussions with insurance companies or government legal departments.
5. Litigation (if needed):  If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we prepare to take your case to court.

Throughout the process, we’ll keep you informed and advocate fiercely for your rights.

Not sure where to start? Call Thompson Law now for a FREE CASE REVIEW with our Glendale bus accident attorneys.

Why Thompson Law Is Trusted by Glendale Families After Bus Accidents

At Thompson Law, we treat every case with the attention it deserves because we know your future depends on it. Glendale families trust us because:

• We’ve handled high-stakes transit injury cases across Maricopa County
• We act fast, preserving evidence before it disappears
• We care about your recovery, not just the legal process
• We’re local, familiar with Glendale streets, laws, and court systems
• We offer FREE consultations and don’t charge unless we win your case

You’re not just another case file to us. You’re a parent, a commuter, a neighbor, and you deserve justice.

Let Thompson Law help you move forward. Contact our Glendale bus accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

FAQs About Glendale Bus Accidents

What if I was a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a bus in Glendale? Do I still have a case?

Yes. Even if you weren’t on the bus, you may still have a strong claim. Pedestrians and cyclists injured in bus-related accidents often face unique challenges when it comes to proving fault and recovering damages.

Can I still file a claim if the bus driver wasn’t ticketed after the crash?

Absolutely. A police citation isn’t required to pursue compensation. Civil liability is based on negligence, which can be proven through other evidence like video footage, witness statements, or expert analysis.

What if I was partially at fault for the bus accident? Can I still recover damages?

Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a bus accident in Glendale?

In most personal injury cases, the statute of limitations in Arizona is two years from the date of the crash. If a government entity is involved, you may only have 180 days to file a Notice of Claim. Acting fast is critical.

Does it cost anything to hire Thompson Law for a Glendale bus accident case?

No upfront fees. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win. Your consultation is always free, and so is your peace of mind.