Long Beach Bus Accident Lawyers

Why Thompson Law As Your Car Accident Attorney?

Choose the right legal team after a bus accident and your recovery and compensation. At Thompson Law, we’re unmatched and client-first. We work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you only pay if we win for you.

Our numbers speak for themselves with over $1.9 billion recovered for our clients. We know every minute counts, that’s why our process is fast and easy. Call, text or reach out online and we’ll get started on your case today.

Accidents can happen at any time. That’s why our team is available 24/7, so you’re never left in the dark. We pride ourselves on personalized attention; our attorneys will keep you informed and answer your questions every step of the way.

Language shouldn’t be a barrier to justice. With bilingual support available, our Spanish-speaking team is here to help every client feel heard and understood. From navigating tough insurance negotiations to building a strong case, we do it all so you can focus on healing.

Time is of the essence. California has strict deadlines for filing a claim. Don’t wait; contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Call Thompson Law For Your Bus Accident Case

We fight for bus accident victims so they get the compensation they deserve. Our Long Beach bus accident attorneys will:

• Get The Facts:  We get police reports, medical records, witness statements and expert testimony.
• Build The Case:  We determine liability, calculate damages and present a strong argument for maximum recovery.
• Handle Everything:  From tough insurance companies to court appearances, we handle it all.

Let us fight for your rights while you heal. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Bus Accident in Long Beach?

Long Beach bus accident victims may be entitled to significant compensation for injuries and losses. Recovery can include economic damages, non-economic damages and in some cases even punitive damages. Knowing what you are entitled to recover is the first step to getting justice.

Special Damages

Economic damages aka special damages address tangible financial losses from the accident. They include medical bills such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, meds, rehab and future treatments. Lost wages are covered for time off work, loss of earning capacity addresses future reduction in your work potential. Property damage is covered to repair or replace personal belongings and wrongful death compensation is to help surviving family members with funeral expenses and other financial losses.

General Damages

Non-economic damages aka general damages provide compensation for the emotional and physical suffering that has no direct monetary cost. Pain and suffering compensation recognizes physical discomfort, loss of enjoyment of life covers the inability to do things you once loved. Emotional distress helps with anxiety, depression and PTSD and loss of consortium addresses the impact on your relationship with your spouse or family members.

How to Calculate Non-Economic Damages

Calculating non-economic damages can be done in several ways. One way is the per diem method where a daily value is assigned to pain and suffering and multiplied by the number of days. For example a daily rate of $200 for 200 days would be $40,000 in damages. Another common method is the multiplier method where total economic damages are multiplied by a factor usually between 1.5 and 5 depending on the severity of the injury. If economic damages are $100,000 and a multiplier of 3 is applied, non economic damages would be $300,000.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are meant to punish the at fault party for extreme negligence or reckless behavior. These are awarded when intentional misconduct or gross negligence has significantly contributed to the accident.

Every case is unique and the method used to calculate damages can make a big difference in your final settlement. Working with an experienced Long Beach bus accident lawyer ensures you get the maximum recovery. If you or a loved one were injured in a bus accident, reach out to our Long Beach law firm today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Bus Accident Statistics in Long Beach

In 2022 the US had 15,033 bus crashes, nearly half of them with injuries. 248 died and 16% of them were bus passengers – the rest were pedestrians and drivers of other vehicles. California was one of the highest with 857 crashes, 417 injuries and 15 fatalities.

Even school buses, considered one of the safest modes of transportation, are not immune to tragedy. In 2022, 104 lives were lost in school bus-related crashes. 71% of the victims were in other vehicles, 16% were pedestrians and many of the incidents occurred at intersections on non-interstate roads.

Pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers are still vulnerable so we need better safety measures near bus stops and school zones. California is working on it but when tragedy strikes victims need legal support. If a bus accident has turned your life upside down, our Long Beach bus accident lawyers are here for you.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

Being in a bus accident can be overwhelming but taking the right steps is key to protecting yourself and your legal rights. Our Long Beach bus accident lawyers have put together these guidelines to help you through this tough time:

1. Safety First:  Move to a safe location away from traffic if possible. Check yourself and others for injuries and make sure everyone is safe.
2. Medical Attention:  Even if you feel fine, you should get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries like internal trauma or whiplash may not be noticeable but can cause long term problems.
3. Report the Accident:  Call Long Beach Police Department and get a police report as soon as possible. This report will be key to your claim.
4. Document the Scene:  If you can, take photos and videos of the accident site, the bus damage, visible injuries and the road conditions. The more detail the better.
5. Gather Witness Info:  Get the names and contact info of passengers or bystanders who witnessed the accident. Their statements will be crucial to your claim.
6. Preserve Evidence:  Keep all related documents including medical records, receipts and any damaged personal property. These will help prove the extent of your losses.
7. Talk to a Bus Accident Attorney:  Call our Long Beach bus accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW. We’ll handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

Following these steps will not only keep you safe but also strengthen your claim if you decide to pursue compensation.

Common Injuries from Bus Accidents in Long Beach

Bus accidents can result in serious injuries due to the number of passengers and the lack of seatbelts in many models. Victims can suffer devastating physical trauma that requires extensive medical care and long-term recovery. Some of the most common injuries are:

• Whiplash:  caused by jerking motions that can cause chronic pain and stiffness.
• Head Injuries:  from minor concussions to severe skull fractures.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):  can cause cognitive impairment, memory loss and long term neurological damage.
• Neck Injuries:  can cause limited mobility, nerve damage or severe discomfort.
• Spinal Cord Injuries:  damage to the spine can cause paralysis or permanent loss of function.
• Soft Tissue Injuries:  damage to muscles, ligaments or tendons that can cause long term pain and restricted movement.
• Paralysis:  loss of motor function due to severe nerve or spinal cord trauma.
• Broken Bones:  high impact crashes can cause broken arms, legs, ribs and hips.
• Internal Injuries:  damage to organs, internal bleeding or punctured lungs can be life threatening.
• Lacerations, Abrasions and Cuts:  caused by shattered glass, metal debris or impact with hard surfaces.
• Nerve Damage:  can cause chronic pain, weakness or loss of sensation.
• Concussions:  a mild form of brain injury that can still cause long term effects on memory and concentration.
• Amputation:  severe crush injuries can cause limb loss and change a victim’s life forever.
• Wrongful Death:  in fatal bus accidents, surviving family members may have the right to sue.

If you or a loved one was injured in a Long Beach bus accident, get medical attention right away. Once stable, contact our Long Beach bus accident lawyers to discuss your options. Call today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

How Bus Ownership Affects Your Claim in Long Beach

The type of bus involved in your accident can make a difference in liability, insurance and compensation. Each type of bus has different legal and insurance rules so professional legal advice is key.

• City Buses:  If a city bus was involved, your claim must follow the California Tort Claims Act, which has a 6-month deadline to file your claim. Compensation may also be limited by city policy.
• School Buses:  Liability depends on ownership. Public school buses require claims to follow government procedure, while private school bus operators have separate insurance policies that can affect compensation.
• Commercial Buses:  Tour buses, charter buses and shuttles carry high insurance limits so victims can get larger settlements if negligence is proven.

Our Long Beach bus accident attorneys will guide you through the process and fight for maximum compensation. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION to talk to us about your case.

Seek Legal Help for Your Bus Crash Injury Claim Today

At Thompson Law, we fight for bus accident victims and get them the compensation they deserve. We offer a FREE CASE ASSESSMENT and work on a contingency basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Our Long Beach bus accident attorneys will handle everything for you, including:

• Investigate Accident:  Gather evidence, review reports, determine who’s at fault.
• Deal with Insurance Companies:  Negotiate to get you the most.
• Manage Deadlines:  Make sure all filings are met in California.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Call Thompson Law today for and let us fight for you.

FAQs About Bus Accidents in Long Beach

Can I file a claim if I was somewhat at fault for the accident?

Yes. Under California’s law, you can still recover if you were partially at fault for the bus accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.

What if the bus company says I’m not entitled to compensation?

If the bus company says they are not responsible for the accident, contact a Long Beach bus accident lawyer today. Your attorney will get the evidence, such as maintenance records, driver history and witness statements, to prove negligence and strengthen your case.

I was a pedestrian or cyclist in a bus accident. What should I do?

Pedestrians and cyclists injured in a bus accident have the same rights as bus passengers. If the bus driver was negligent and you were injured, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.

What if the bus driver was a government employee?

If the bus driver was a government employee, your claim will follow the California Tort Claims Act. This includes strict filing deadlines and procedures. Get a lawyer as soon as possible to make sure you comply with these requirements.

Can I file a claim if the accident was outside of California?

Yes, you can file a claim even if the accident was outside of California. However, the statute of limitations and procedures will vary depending on the state where the accident occurred. Contact a bus accident attorney today to protect your rights.

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