Bus Accident Attorney in Los Angeles

Common Bus Accident Injuries

Because buses lack the safety features found in modern passenger cars—such as seatbelts for all passengers and side-impact airbags—the injuries sustained can be catastrophic.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Striking the head against windows, metal poles, or other seats can cause permanent cognitive impairment.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or total paralysis, requiring a lifetime of medical care.
• Bone Fractures: The blunt force of a bus impact often results in shattered limbs, hips, or ribs.
• Internal Bleeding: Damage to vital organs may not be immediately apparent but can be fatal if not treated.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Severe whiplash and ligament tears are common for passengers tossed during a sudden stop.

California Bus Driving Laws

In California, buses are classified as “common carriers.” Under California Civil Code Section 2100, common carriers must use the "utmost care and diligence for the safe carriage" of their passengers. This is a higher legal standard of care than the "reasonable care" standard applied to typical drivers.

Furthermore, bus drivers must adhere to:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements: Specific endorsements and medical certifications.
• Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations: Strict limits on how many hours a driver can be on duty to prevent fatigue.
• Strict BAC Limits: While the limit for most drivers is 0.08%, for commercial bus drivers, it is 0.04%.
• Specialized Stopping Rules: Such as mandatory stops at all railroad crossings.

Who is Liable for a Bus Accident?

Determining liability in a Los Angeles bus accident is rarely straightforward. Depending on the circumstances, one or more of the following parties may be held responsible:

• The Bus Driver: For negligence, recklessness, or traffic violations.
• The Private Bus Company: Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are often liable for the actions of their employees. They may also be liable for negligent hiring or maintenance.
• Government Entities: If a Metro bus or school bus is involved, the City or County of Los Angeles may be the defendant. This involves strict "Tort Claims Act" deadlines—often as short as six months.
• Manufacturers: If a defective part (like a tire blowout or brake failure) caused the crash.
• Other Third-Party Drivers: If another motorist's negligence caused the bus to swerve or crash.

Bus Accident Claim FAQs

What should I do after a bus accident?

Seek medical attention immediately, report the accident, gather evidence if possible, and contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally two years. However, if the bus is owned by a government entity (like LA Metro), you must file an administrative claim within six months of the accident.

What if I wasn't wearing a seatbelt on the bus?

Most public transit buses in LA do not provide seatbelts. You cannot be held contributorily negligent for failing to use equipment that was not provided. If seatbelts were available and you didn't use them, it might affect your recovery, but it does not bar you from seeking damages.

Can I sue if I was a pedestrian hit by a bus?

Absolutely. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable victims in these cases. Bus drivers have a heightened duty to watch for pedestrians, especially in high-traffic areas like Downtown LA or Santa Monica.

Are bus companies required to carry insurance?

Yes. Bus operators must carry significant insurance coverage due to the high risk associated with transporting passengers.

Do I need a lawyer for a bus accident claim?

While not required, having a lawyer greatly improves your chances of obtaining fair compensation, especially in complex cases involving multiple parties or government agencies.