Los Angeles Bus Accident Lawyers

Bus Accident Statistics in the United States

In 2022, the U.S. recorded 15,033 bus accidents, with 47% resulting in injuries and 1.5% leading to fatalities. Of the 248 reported deaths, 16% were bus passengers, while the majority were pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles. California ranked among the highest in the country, reporting 857 crashes, 417 injury-related incidents, and 15 fatalities.

School buses remain one of the safest transportation options for children, but accidents still occur. In 2022, 104 people lost their lives in school bus-related crashes nationwide, with 71% being in other vehicles and 16% being pedestrians. Most fatal incidents happened on non-interstate roads, and 23% of school bus crashes from 2012 to 2021 occurred at intersections.

Pedestrians and cyclists also face risks, underscoring the need for improved safety near bus stops and school zones. California continues to implement safety measures, including seat belt requirements and road improvements, to protect bus passengers and others on the road.

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a bus accident, reach out to our Los Angeles bus accident lawyers for dedicated legal representation.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Los Angeles

Bus accidents in Los Angeles often result from negligence by drivers, transit companies, or other motorists. To establish negligence in a bus accident case, four key elements must be proven:

• Duty: The bus driver or company is responsible for ensuring passenger and road user safety.
• Breach: This duty is violated, such as through distracted driving or poor maintenance.
• Causation: The breach directly leads to an accident.
• Damages: The accident results in harm, including injuries or property damage.

Determining negligence requires a detailed investigation, including police reports, witness statements, maintenance records, and expert analysis. Our Los Angeles bus accident lawyers will help build a strong case by identifying all responsible parties.

Bus Driver Negligence

• Running red lights or stop signs
• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Speeding or reckless driving

Bus Company Negligence

• Failing to properly maintain vehicles
• Hiring inexperienced or unqualified drivers
• Providing inadequate driver training
• Overloading or improperly loading the bus

Manufacturer Defects

• Faulty brakes, tires, or steering systems
• Defective seatbelts or safety features
• Failure to issue recalls or conduct proper inspections

Hazardous Conditions

• Driving in heavy fog, rain, or strong winds without precautions
• Ignoring weather advisories or failing to adjust speed
• Poorly maintained roads, potholes, or missing traffic signs
• Unsafe construction zones or road debris

Negligence by Other Drivers

• Failing to yield to buses, especially at bus stops
• Reckless or distracted driving
• Illegal lane changes or aggressive maneuvers

Passenger Negligence

• Distracting the driver while the bus is in motion
• Misusing emergency exits without reason
• Ignoring safety guidelines

If you were injured in a Los Angeles bus accident caused by negligence, our experienced attorneys are ready to help. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

Being involved in a bus accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help protect your safety and legal rights. Follow these guidelines compiled by our Los Angeles bus accident lawyers:

1. Ensure Safety:  Move to a safe location away from traffic if possible. Check yourself and others for injuries.
2. Seek Medical Attention:  Even if you feel fine, get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries, like internal trauma or whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
3. Report the Accident:  Call local law enforcement and request a police report. This report can serve as critical evidence for a future claim.
4. Document the Scene:  If safe, take photos or videos of the accident site, bus damage, visible injuries, and road conditions.
5. Gather Witness Information:  Collect names and contact details from other passengers or bystanders who saw the crash. Their statements can help support your case.
6. Preserve Evidence:  Keep all medical records, receipts, and any damaged personal belongings. These documents can help prove the extent of your losses.
7. Contact a Bus Accident Attorney:  Get a FREE CONSULTATION with our lawyers. Our team will handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Bus Wreck?

If you’ve been injured in a Los Angeles bus accident, you may be eligible for financial compensation to cover your losses. This can include economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in certain situations, punitive damages. Understanding the types of compensation available can help you move forward with your claim.

Economic Damages

Also known as special damages, these cover financial losses directly related to the accident, such as:

• Medical Expenses:  Covers emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for income lost due to missed work.
• Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or limit your ability to earn, you may be compensated for future financial losses.
• Property Damage: Covers repairs or replacement of personal belongings damaged in the crash.
• Wrongful Death:  Provides coverage for funeral expenses and financial losses suffered by surviving family members.

Non-Economic Damages

Referred to as general damages, these compensate for physical and emotional suffering that doesn’t have a specific financial cost, including:

• Pain and Suffering:  Covers physical pain and long-term discomfort caused by the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  Compensation for injuries that prevent participation in activities you once loved.
• Emotional Distress:  Addresses psychological trauma such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
• Loss of Consortium:  Compensation for the impact on relationships with a spouse or close family members.

How Non-Economic Damages Are Calculated

Since these damages don’t come with a fixed price, different methods are used to determine a fair amount:

• Per Diem Method:  A daily rate is assigned to pain and suffering, which is then multiplied by the number of days the victim experiences it.
  • Example: If assigned $200 per day for 200 days, the total compensation would be $40,000.
• Multiplier Method:  The total amount of economic damages is multiplied by a factor (typically between 1.5 and 5) based on the severity of the injuries.
  • Example: If economic damages total $100,000 and a multiplier of 3 is used, non-economic damages would be $300,000.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are meant to penalize the at-fault party for extreme negligence or reckless behavior. These are only awarded in cases where gross misconduct or intentional wrongdoing played a role in the accident.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Every case is unique, and how damages are calculated can have a significant impact on your final settlement. Having an experienced Los Angeles bus accident lawyer on your side ensures you receive the maximum compensation possible.

If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident, contact our Los Angeles legal team today for a FREE CONSULTATION. Let us fight for the financial recovery you deserve.

How Much is a Bus Accident Claim Worth in Los Angeles?

The value of a bus accident claim depends on several key factors:

• Injury Severity:  More serious injuries result in higher medical expenses and longer recovery times.
• Medical Costs:  Includes hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care needs.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for time missed at work and any reduction in future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering:  Accounts for physical pain, emotional distress, and overall impact on your quality of life.
• Fault & Liability:  Under California’s comparative negligence law, your compensation may be reduced if you share responsibility for the accident.
• Long-Term Impact:  Permanent disabilities, scarring, or life-altering changes can increase the value of your claim.

Bus accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, such as the bus driver, the bus company, or government agencies. Working with an experienced Los Angeles bus accident lawyer ensures you receive the maximum compensation and aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement.

Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION. Let us fight for the financial recovery you deserve.

How Bus Ownership Affects Your Claim in Los Angeles

The type of bus involved in your accident can determine who is liable and how much compensation you can seek. Different bus operators have specific liability rules and insurance policies, making legal guidance essential.

• City-Owned Buses:  If a Los Angeles Metro (LADOT or Metro) bus was involved, your claim must follow California Tort Claims Act procedures, including a six-month deadline for filing. City policies may also impact the total compensation available.
• School Buses:  Liability varies depending on ownership. Public school buses require government claims procedures, while private school bus operators have different insurance policies that affect compensation.
• Commercial Buses:  Tour, charter, and shuttle buses often have high insurance coverage, potentially leading to larger settlements if negligence is proven.

Bus accident claims can be complex, especially when dealing with government agencies or corporate insurers. Our Los Angeles bus accident lawyers will guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How Long Do You Have to File a Bus Accident Claim in Los Angeles?

The deadline for filing a bus accident claim depends on the bus’s ownership and where the crash occurred:

• Private Bus Accidents:  California law allows two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim.
• City-Owned Buses (Metro, LADOT):  If a public transit bus was involved, you must file a government claim within six months. If denied, you have six additional months to file a lawsuit.
• Out-of-State Accidents:  If the crash happened outside California, different state laws may apply, so taking quick action is critical.

Missing the deadline could prevent you from recovering compensation, so it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible. Our Los Angeles bus accident lawyers will ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time. Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Get Legal Help for Your Bus Accident Claim Today

Let Our Los Angeles Bus Accident Lawyers Fight for You!

At Thompson Law, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of bus accident victims. We offer a FREE CASE ASSESSMENT and work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Our Los Angeles bus accident attorneys will handle every aspect of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery. Don’t go through this alone—contact Thompson Law today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I was injured as a pedestrian or cyclist in a bus accident?

Pedestrians and cyclists hit by a bus have the same legal rights as passengers. If the bus driver was negligent, you may be eligible for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

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

Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence law, you can still seek compensation even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

What should I do if the bus company denies liability?

If the bus company refuses to accept responsibility, contact a Los Angeles bus accident lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can gather crucial evidence—such as driver history, surveillance footage, maintenance records, and witness statements—to prove negligence and hold the responsible party accountable.

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

Yes, but the process and deadlines will depend on the state where the accident took place. If you were injured in a bus crash while traveling, a Los Angeles bus accident attorney can help determine the best course of action and ensure your claim meets all legal requirements.

What happens if the bus driver was employed by a government agency?

If the driver worked for Los Angeles Metro (LADOT or Metro) or another public transit agency, your claim must follow California Tort Claims Act procedures. This includes a strict six-month filing deadline from the accident date. Government claims involve specific legal steps, so consulting an attorney right away is critical.

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