Riverside Bus Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Bus Crash in Riverside? Learn What Compensation You May Be Entitled To

When a bus crash happens, it often makes headlines, and for good reason. These accidents can be devastating, involving dozens of passengers, multiple vehicles, and life-altering injuries.

Riverside County has seen some of the most heartbreaking bus collisions. From the tragic school bus incident in Desert Hot Springs that killed a young child, to the 5-year-old boy airlifted after a charter bus rolled off I-15, to the horrific 2016 casino tour bus crash that took 13 lives in Palm Springs, each case left families shattered and communities stunned.

What these accidents have in common is more than their location.

At Thompson Law, we help injured passengers, pedestrians, and grieving families take legal action after these devastating events. If you or someone you love was hurt in a bus crash in Riverside, our legal team is here to fight for full and fair compensation.

Let us investigate the crash, determine who’s at fault, and handle the insurance companies, so you can focus on healing.

Call now for a FREE CONSULTATION with our Riverside bus accident lawyers.

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Why Thompson Law Is the Right Choice for Riverside Bus Accident Victims

At Thompson Law, we’ve earned the trust of Riverside families by being responsive, aggressive when necessary, and compassionate when it matters most.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • We know Riverside streets, transit systems, and local agencies.
  • We’ve handled cases involving public transit, school buses, and charter companies.
  • We’re trial-ready and won’t hesitate to take your case to court.
  • We offer personal attention and clear updates at every step.
  • You don’t pay unless we win.

Let us put our experience to work for you. Speak with our Riverside bus accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION

 

Riverside Bus Accident Lawyers

What to Expect When You Contact Our Riverside Bus Accident Attorneys

When you reach out to Thompson Law after a bus crash, we focus on one thing: helping you get the compensation you deserve. We’ll listen to your story, review the facts, and explain your legal options in plain terms.

Depending on your case, you may be eligible for:

We handle every step, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurers, and we’re prepared to go to trial if that’s what it takes.

Get started today. Call our Riverside bus accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

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(844) 308-8180

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 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 Riverside Bus Accident lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Common Types of Injuries

Bus accidents often involve multiple passengers, heavy vehicles, and sudden, forceful impacts. Because of the size and weight of buses (and the lack of seat belts on many models), injuries can be serious and widespread. At Thompson Law, we’ve represented victims suffering from:

Victims may be thrown from their seats, pinned under debris, or injured by broken glass and unsecured items. Some need weeks of recovery, while others may face a lifetime of care. If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a bus crash, don’t wait to explore your legal options.

Contact our Riverside bus accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

At Thompson Law

We provide injury accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our Riverside Bus Accident lawyers will build a strong case with supporting evidence for injured victims so that you recover the money that you deserve.

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What Evidence Is Crucial to a Successful Bus Accident Injury Claim?

Bus crashes often involve multiple parties and layers of liability. That’s why strong evidence is key to proving your claim.

We help gather and preserve:

  • Crash reports from local police or CHP
  • Witness statements and driver logs
  • Video footage from traffic cameras or bus surveillance
  • Photos of the scene, injuries, and vehicle damage
  • Medical records that document your injuries
  • Bus maintenance and inspection records
  • Employment or insurance records from the bus company

The sooner you call, the better we can protect this critical evidence. Contact our legal team now for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How Bus Accidents Differ from Other Vehicle Crashes in Riverside

Bus accidents aren’t like regular car crashes. They often involve:

  • Multiple injured passengers
  • Larger, heavier vehicles that cause more severe injuries
  • Different safety equipment (like seatbelt access)
  • Commercial or government operators with complex insurance
  • Federal and state regulations for transit and charter buses

These differences affect how the case is investigated, who can be held liable, and how compensation is calculated. At Thompson Law, we understand how to navigate these cases from start to finish.

Speak with our Riverside bus accident lawyers today to learn more. We offer FREE CASE REVIEWS.

When the City Is Involved: Filing Claims Against Public Transit in Riverside

If your bus crash involved the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) or another government-operated bus, your case may follow a different process. Claims against public entities in California require:

  • Filing an administrative claim within just 6 months of the crash
  • Following strict notice and documentation procedures
  • Proving that the public agency or its driver was negligent

Don’t wait. Talk to our Riverside bus accident attorneys today for help with government claims. A FREE CONSULTATION is available.

School Bus, Public Transit, or Charter: Liability Can Vary by Bus Type

Not all buses are the same, and neither are the legal claims that follow a crash. Liability depends on the type of bus involved:

  • School Buses:  Usually operated by public school districts or private contractors. Special protections apply to child passengers, and school districts may be liable for negligence or improper hiring.
  • Public Transit Buses:  Typically run by RTA or other government agencies. These claims have shorter filing windows and strict legal procedures.
  • Charter and Tour Buses:  Operated by private companies. Liability may extend to the driver, the company, maintenance providers, or even third-party vendors.

We’ll identify every party that may be responsible so you can pursue full compensation.

Call today for a FREE CASE REVIEW with our Riverside bus accident lawyers.

Don’t Miss Your Window to Act in a Riverside Bus Injury Claim

Timing is everything in a bus accident claim. In California:

  • You typically have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
  • If your case involves a public agency, you must file a government claim within 6 months.
  • Miss these deadlines, and you could lose your right to recover compensation, no matter how strong your case is.

We track all deadlines for you and ensure your claim is filed on time. Don’t risk your future by waiting.

Contact our Riverside bus accident attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION and protect your legal rights.

Roads & Intersections in Riverside Where Bus Accidents Are Most Likely to Occur

Several major roads in Riverside have become high-risk zones for bus crashes due to heavy traffic, limited visibility, and complex intersections. Local data and traffic safety plans highlight the following locations as frequent sites of bus-related collisions:

Magnolia Avenue and Tyler Street

This intersection near shopping centers and freeway access sees a high volume of both personal vehicles and public buses. The mix of stop-and-go traffic, turning vehicles, and pedestrians makes it especially dangerous.

Van Buren Boulevard and Arlington Avenue

A major corridor for school and transit buses, this stretch is known for speeding vehicles and limited safe crossings. Crashes often involve turning conflicts and rear-end collisions.

University Avenue near UC Riverside

With a steady flow of student pedestrians, campus shuttles, and city buses, this area poses risks during peak school hours. Poor lighting and aggressive driving add to the hazard.

La Sierra Avenue at the 91 Freeway Interchange

This interchange is a common route for charter and long-distance buses. Heavy congestion and frequent lane changes increase the likelihood of side-swipe and merging accidents.

Indiana Avenue and Madison Street

Located near multiple schools and neighborhoods, this intersection has been flagged in the city’s Local Roadway Safety Plan (LRSP) for safety upgrades due to frequent collisions involving large vehicles.

These locations continue to see dangerous crashes, especially during high-traffic hours, bad weather, or when visibility is low. If your bus accident happened near one of these areas, there’s a strong chance other contributing factors, like road design or driver error, may be involved.

Contact our Riverside bus accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW and find out how we can help you hold the right parties accountable.

City Ordinances and Traffic Laws That Affect Bus Crash Cases in Riverside

Riverside bus accident cases often hinge on more than just driver error. Local ordinances, transit rules, and safety regulations play a key role in determining liability and shaping legal claims.

Whether your accident involved a public bus, charter bus, or school vehicle, understanding these city-level rules can help clarify who’s responsible.

1. Bus Terminal Zoning & Operation Laws

Under Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 19.275, bus terminals must meet strict zoning and location standards. If a crash happens near or involving a terminal that’s out of compliance, or lacking adequate security or passenger areas, this could strengthen a negligence claim.

2. Transit Rules for Passengers and Operators

The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) sets detailed safety policies for all public transit use, including:

  • No standing or obstructing aisles while the bus is in motion.
  • Passengers must remain seated until a full stop.
  • No smoking, loud music, or disruptive behavior allowed.
  • All mobility devices must be secured, and riders must follow operator instructions.

3. Seat Belt Enforcement on School Buses

Riders on school buses equipped with seat belts must use them at all times. If a child is injured while not wearing a belt, and the school district failed to enforce or inform families of this requirement, that could factor into liability. Repeat behavioral violations can also affect a student’s transportation privileges and may become relevant in crash cases involving misconduct on board.

4. Restrictions Around Bus Stops and Loading Zones

City ordinances mandate safe practices for student pickups and drop-offs, including a 12-foot “danger zone” around school buses and required adult supervision for kindergarten riders. Crashes involving children near stops may involve school liability if these policies were ignored or if red-light stop arms weren’t activated properly.

5. Rules for E-Bikes, Pets, and Scooters on Buses

Charter and public buses have clear restrictions on items brought on board. Electric scooters must be foldable, and only certain types of battery-powered bikes are allowed. If a fire or injury occurred because of a prohibited item, like a gas-powered bike or a loose pet, claims may involve both the owner and the transit authority for failing to enforce these rules.

6. Anti-Loitering, Dress Code, and Behavior Ordinances

RTA’s travel policies also prohibit smoking (including cannabis), offensive language or clothing, and intoxicated behavior. Bus drivers are required to maintain order, and a failure to remove or report disruptive passengers before an incident may create grounds for negligence.

When a bus crash occurs in Riverside, it’s not just about who was behind the wheel. Violations of city transit policies, safety ordinances, or operational rules can all influence liability. If you were injured and suspect improper oversight or enforcement played a role, our legal team can investigate.

Contact our Riverside bus accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION. We’ll evaluate your case through the lens of local law and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Hospitals Serving Bus Crash Victims in Riverside, CA

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Riverside bus accident, immediate medical attention is crucial, even if symptoms seem minor. Some injuries may not show up right away but can become serious over time. Local hospitals equipped to treat trauma victims include:

Need help connecting with doctors who understand how to document accident-related trauma for insurance and legal purposes?

Call our team today for guidance from our bus accident lawyers in Riverside and a FREE CONSULTATION.

How to Obtain a Police Report After a Riverside Bus Accident

A police report is one of the most important documents in a bus crash injury claim. It includes the responding officer’s observations, statements from those involved, and often a preliminary finding of fault.

To request your report in Riverside, you can:

Reports typically become available 7 to 10 business days after the crash. If the California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to the scene (common for freeway or major highway collisions), you’ll need to contact the nearest CHP office instead.

Unsure who handled your accident? Our legal team can help you identify the right agency and obtain your report quickly.

Speak with our Riverside bus accident lawyers today for help getting your police report and a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Get Your Free Case Review with Our Riverside Bus Accident Team

You don’t need to face this process alone. At Thompson Law, we help victims of bus crashes in Riverside understand their rights and take action. Whether your injury happened on a public transit bus, charter, school bus, or a tour vehicle, we’re here to guide you through your next steps.

During your free case review, we’ll help you:

You pay nothing unless we win your case. It costs you nothing to ask questions, but it could cost you everything to wait.

Call now to schedule your FREE CASE REVIEW with our Riverside bus accident lawyers.

 

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FAQs About Bus Accidents in Riverside

What should I do if I was injured while standing on a bus that made a sudden stop?

Injuries from abrupt braking or swerving are more common than many think, especially for standing passengers. If you were thrown or injured while standing or walking on a moving bus, you may still have a claim. Liability may depend on how the stop was made, driver behavior, and vehicle maintenance.

Can I file a claim if I was hit by a bus while riding a bike or walking near a bus stop?

Yes. Pedestrians and cyclists struck by buses may be eligible for compensation, but these cases require immediate investigation. Factors like blind spots, driver distraction, and bus stop layout can play a major role.

What if the bus didn’t crash, but I was hurt by a loose item or falling luggage?

You may still be able to file a claim. Bus companies must ensure passenger safety, which includes securing overhead luggage or loose equipment. Injuries from falling objects may indicate negligence in loading or maintenance procedures.

What happens if I was hurt in a bus crash while traveling out of state, but live in Riverside?

Jurisdiction matters. Depending on where the crash happened and who owns the bus, your claim might be filed in another state. Our attorneys can help determine where to file and whether California law still applies to parts of your case.

Can I sue if the bus driver was following the route, but the crash was caused by a third-party driver?

Yes. If another vehicle caused the crash, that driver (and their insurer) may be held liable. In some cases, multiple parties share fault. We investigate every angle to make sure the right individuals or companies are held accountable.

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.