San Diego Bus Accident Lawyers

Get Legal Help From Our San Diego Bus Accident Lawyers

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

Our San Diego bus accident attorneys will handle the legal process so you can focus on your recovery. Don’t face this alone. Call us today to get the compensation you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Bus Accident in San Diego?

If you were hurt in a San Diego bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. This can include financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, additional damages meant to punish reckless behavior. Knowing what you can claim is essential when pursuing your case.

Economic Damages

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

• Medical Expenses:  Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for income lost due to missed work.
• Reduced Earning Capacity:  If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future, you may be compensated for lost earnings.
• Property Damage:  Covers repairs or replacement of personal belongings affected by the crash.
• Wrongful Death:  Funeral expenses and financial losses suffered by surviving family members.

Non-Economic Damages

Commonly referred to as general damages, these cover the physical and emotional toll of an accident that doesn’t come with a clear price tag. They include:

• Pain and Suffering:  Compensation for ongoing physical pain and discomfort caused by the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  Covers the impact of injuries that prevent you from doing things you once enjoyed, like hobbies, sports, or travel.
• Emotional Distress:  Addresses mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Consortium:  Compensation for how the injuries affect relationships with a spouse or close family members, including loss of companionship or support.

How Non-Economic Damages Are Calculated

Because these damages don’t come with a fixed price, attorneys use different methods to calculate fair compensation:

• Per Diem Method:  A daily dollar amount is assigned to pain and suffering, multiplied by the number of days the victim experiences it.

• • Example:  If assigned $200 per day for 200 days, total compensation would be $40,000.

• Multiplier Method:  Economic damages are multiplied by a number (typically 1.5 to 5) based on injury severity.
  • Example:  If medical costs are $100,000 and a multiplier of 3 is applied, non-economic damages would be $300,000.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are only awarded in cases where extreme negligence or reckless behavior caused the accident. They serve as a penalty for the at-fault party and a warning to prevent future misconduct.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Every case is different, and the amount you receive depends on the evidence, injury severity, and legal strategy. Our San Diego bus accident attorneys work to secure the highest possible settlement for your case.

If you were injured in a bus accident, call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How Much is a Bus Accident Claim Worth in San Diego?

The value of a bus accident case depends on several factors:

• Injury Severity:  The more serious the injuries, the higher the medical expenses and potential compensation.
• Medical Costs:  Includes hospital stays, rehabilitation, surgeries, and future medical care needs.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for missed work and future loss of earnings.
• Pain and Suffering:  Includes physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Fault & Liability:  Under California’s comparative negligence law, your compensation may be reduced if you were partially responsible for the accident.
• Long-Term Impact:  If the accident caused permanent disabilities, scarring, or life-changing conditions, the claim’s value increases.

Bus accident cases often involve multiple responsible parties, including drivers, bus companies, or even government agencies. Our attorneys will help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a FREE CASE EVALUATION.

Why Choose Thompson Law As Your Bus Accident Lawyer?

As one of the best personal injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated Bus Accident Lawyers 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 personal injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law’s San Diego 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.

How Long Do You Have to File a Bus Accident Claim in San Diego?

The time limit to file a claim depends on who owns the bus involved in the accident:

• Private Bus Accidents:  You have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit under California law.
• City-Owned Buses (MTS or Public Transit):  Claims against government agencies must be filed within six months. If the claim is denied, you have an additional six months to file a lawsuit.
• Out-of-State Accidents:  If the accident occurred outside California, different state laws may apply. Acting quickly is essential to protect your rights.

Failing to meet the deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation. Our attorneys will make sure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Bus Accident Statistics in the United States

In 2022, there were 15,033 bus accidents across the U.S., with 47% leading to injuries and 1.5% resulting in fatalities. A total of 248 people lost their lives, with 16% being bus passengers. The majority of fatalities involved pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles.

California is among the states with the highest number of bus accidents, reporting 857 crashes in 2022. Of these, 417 involved injuries, and 15 were fatal.

School buses remain a generally safe mode of transportation for children, but accidents still happen. In 2022, 104 people died in crashes involving school buses. Of these, 71% were in other vehicles, while 16% were pedestrians. Many fatal crashes occurred on non-interstate roads, and 23% of school bus collisions between 2012 and 2021 happened at intersections.

Pedestrians and cyclists are also at risk, especially near bus stops and school zones. To improve safety, California has implemented safety measures such as seat belt laws and road infrastructure improvements.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a bus accident, our San Diego legal team is ready to assist you in pursuing justice.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in San Diego

Bus accidents often happen because of carelessness by drivers, transit companies, or other motorists. To prove fault in a bus accident case, the following four elements must be established:

• Duty of Care:  The bus driver or company is responsible for ensuring the safety of passengers and others on the road.
• Breach of Duty:  This responsibility is violated, such as through reckless driving or improper vehicle maintenance.
• Causation:  The breach directly results in an accident.
• Damages:  The accident causes injuries or property damage.

Investigating a bus accident requires reviewing police reports, gathering witness statements, analyzing maintenance records, and consulting experts. Our San Diego attorneys will thoroughly examine your case to identify all liable parties.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus Driver Negligence

• Running red lights or stop signs
• Texting or using a phone while driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Speeding or reckless driving

Bus Company Negligence

• Not maintaining buses properly
• Hiring untrained or inexperienced drivers
• Failing to provide proper driver training
• Overloading the bus beyond its capacity

Manufacturer Defects

• Faulty brakes, tires, or steering
• Defective seat belts or safety features
• Lack of proper inspections or recalls

Hazardous Conditions

• Driving in bad weather without caution
• Poorly maintained roads, potholes, or missing traffic signs
• Dangerous construction zones or road debris

Negligence by Other Drivers

• Failing to yield to buses at stops
• Distracted or aggressive driving
• Making unsafe lane changes

Passenger Negligence

• Distracting the driver
• Misusing emergency exits
• Ignoring safety rules

If you were injured in a San Diego bus accident caused by negligence, our attorneys are ready to help. Contact us today for a FREE CASE EVALUATION to discuss your legal options.

Common Injuries from Bus Accidents in San Diego

Due to their size and lack of seat belts in many models, buses can cause severe injuries in a crash. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head Injuries:  From mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries, head trauma can have lasting effects.
• Spinal Cord Damage:  Injuries to the spine may result in partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones:  High-impact collisions often cause fractures in arms, legs, and ribs.
• Whiplash and Neck Strain:  Sudden jolts can cause painful neck injuries that take time to heal.
• Cuts and Deep Wounds:  Broken glass and debris can lead to serious lacerations, infections, or scarring.
• Internal Injuries:  Damage to organs or internal bleeding can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

If you have been injured in a bus accident in San Diego, seek medical attention immediately. Once you are safe, contact Thompson Law for a FREE CASE REVIEW to discuss your legal options with our devoted team.

What to Do After a Bus Accident in San Diego

Being involved in a bus accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect both your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

• Move to Safety:  If possible, get to a safe location away from traffic.
• Check for Injuries:  Look for any injuries, even minor ones.
• Seek Medical Help:  Some injuries, like internal trauma, may not be obvious right away. Get checked by a doctor.
• Report the Accident:  Call the police and request an official report. This can be important evidence.
• Gather Evidence:  Take photos and videos of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
• Collect Witness Details:  Get names and contact information from anyone who saw what happened.
• Save Important Records:  Keep all medical documents, bills, and receipts related to the accident.
• Speak with a Lawyer:  Contact our San Diego bus accident attorneys for a free case review. Our team will handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

FAQs About Bus Accidents in San Diego

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

If a bus hits you while you’re walking or cycling, you have the right to seek compensation. If the bus driver’s negligence caused the accident, you might be eligible to recover costs for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.

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

Yes, you can. San Diego follows California’s comparative negligence system, meaning you can pursue compensation even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, any compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

What should I do if the bus company denies liability?

If the bus company refuses to accept responsibility, it’s important to consult a San Diego bus accident attorney promptly. A lawyer can collect vital evidence, such as driver records, surveillance videos, maintenance logs, and witness accounts, to establish negligence and hold the responsible party accountable.

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

Yes, you can. However, the process and deadlines depend on the laws of the state where the accident occurred. If you were injured in a bus accident while traveling, a San Diego bus accident lawyer 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 bus driver worked for a public transit agency, like the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), your claim must follow specific procedures under the California Tort Claims Act. This includes a strict six-month deadline from the date of the accident to file a claim. Government-related claims involve unique legal steps, so consulting an attorney immediately is crucial.