San Francisco Bus Accident Lawyers

Get Legal Help for Your Bus Accident Claim Today

At Thompson Law, we are committed to fighting for bus accident victims. We offer a free case asessment and work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Our San Francisco bus accident lawyers will handle every step of the legal process so you can focus on healing. Don’t face this alone. Contact Thompson Law Today, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in San Francisco

Bus accidents in San Francisco often happen due to 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 causes harm, including injuries or property damage.

Determining negligence requires a thorough investigation, including police reports, witness statements, maintenance records, and expert analysis. Our San Francisco bus accident lawyers can 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 San Francisco bus accident caused by negligence, our experienced attorneys are ready to help. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW to discuss your legal options.

Why Choose Our Bus Accident Lawyers for Your Case

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 Francisco 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.

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 San Francisco 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 be 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:  Speak with our San Francisco bus accident lawyers and our team will handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

Taking these steps ensures your safety and strengthens your case if you decide to seek compensation. Call us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Bus Accident in San Francisco?

Victims of bus accidents in San Francisco may be entitled to financial compensation for their injuries and losses. This includes economic damages, non-economic damages, and in some cases, punitive damages. Understanding what you may recover can help you take the next steps toward securing justice.

Economic Damages

Also called special damages, these cover financial losses caused by the accident, including:

• Medical Expenses:  Covers emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future treatments.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for income lost due to time away from work.
• Loss of Earning Capacity:  If injuries limit your ability to work in the future, you may receive compensation for reduced earnings.
• Property Damage:  Payment for repairs or replacement of damaged personal property.
• Wrongful Death:  Covers funeral costs and financial losses for surviving family members.

Non-Economic Damages

Also called general damages, these compensate for emotional and physical suffering that doesn’t have a direct financial cost, such as:

• Pain and Suffering:  Compensation for physical pain and discomfort.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:  If injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed.
• Emotional Distress:  Covers anxiety, PTSD, depression, and psychological trauma.
• Loss of Consortium:  Compensation for the impact on relationships with a spouse or family members.

How Non-Economic Damages Are Calculated

Since non-economic damages don’t have a clear financial value, different methods are used to determine a fair amount:

• Per Diem Method:  A daily monetary value is assigned to pain and suffering, 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 number (usually between 1.5 and 5) based on injury severity.
  • 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 punish the at-fault party for extreme negligence or reckless actions. These are awarded in cases where intentional misconduct or gross negligence contributed to the accident.

Every case is unique, and the way damages are calculated can significantly impact your final settlement. Working with an experienced San Francisco bus accident lawyer ensures you receive the maximum compensation possible.

If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident, contact our San Francisco 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 San Francisco?

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

• Injury Severity:  More serious injuries lead to higher medical costs and longer recovery times.
• Medical Expenses:  Includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehab, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for missed work and reduced future earnings.
• Pain and Suffering:  Covers physical pain and emotional distress.
• Fault & Liability:  Under California’s comparative negligence law, compensation may be reduced if you share responsibility for the accident.
• Long-Term Impact:  Permanent disability, scarring, or life changes can increase your claim’s value.

Bus accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the bus driver, bus company, or city agencies. An experienced San Francisco bus accident lawyer can maximize your compensation and protect you from low insurance settlements.

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

How Bus Ownership Affects Your Claim in San Francisco

The type of bus involved in your accident can impact who is responsible and how much compensation you can recover. Different buses have unique liability rules and insurance coverage, making legal guidance essential.

• City-Owned Buses:  If a Muni bus was involved, your claim must follow California Tort Claims Act rules, including a six-month filing deadline. Compensation may also be capped based on city policies.
• School Buses: Liability depends on ownership—public school buses follow government claim procedures, while private operators have different insurance requirements that could affect compensation.
• Commercial Buses:  Tour, charter, and shuttle buses usually carry high insurance limits, leading to larger payouts if negligence is proven.

Bus accident claims can be complex, especially when dealing with government agencies or private insurance companies. Our San Francisco bus accident lawyers can help you navigate the process and fight for maximum compensation.

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

The time limit to file a bus accident injury claim depends on who owns the bus and where the accident happened:

• Private Bus Accidents:  You have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in California.
• City-Owned Buses (Muni):  If a San Francisco Muni bus was involved, you must file a government claim within six months. If denied, you have six more months to file a lawsuit.
• Out-of-State Accidents:  If your crash happened outside California, different state laws may apply, making quick action essential.

Missing a deadline can bar you from recovering compensation, so consulting an attorney early is crucial. Our San Francisco bus accident lawyers can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

FAQs About Bus Accidents in San Francisco

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

Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. 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 take responsibility, contact an experienced San Francisco bus accident lawyer right away. A lawyer can gather key evidence, including maintenance records, driver history, and witness statements, to build a strong case proving negligence.

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

Pedestrians and cyclists injured by a bus have the same legal rights as passengers. If a bus driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

What happens if the bus driver was working for a government agency?

If the driver was employed by a public transit agency, such as San Francisco Muni, your claim must follow the California Tort Claims Act, which includes strict deadlines—usually six months from the accident date. Filing a government claim requires specific legal steps, so consulting a lawyer immediately is essential.

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

Yes, but the statute of limitations and legal process depend on the laws of the state where the accident occurred. If you were injured in a bus accident while traveling, speak with a California bus accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines and legal requirements.