Bus accidents happen less often than passenger vehicle crashes, but the results can be more traumatic; the legal aftermath can be much more complicated as well. Whether the crash involves public transit, school buses, or private charter vehicles, there can be overwhelming injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and physical or emotional suffering.

That is why it is so important to consult with qualified legal professionals who can guide you through the aftermath of a bus crash. At Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel, our San Bernardino County bus accident lawyers protect the rights of those injured in these incidents. If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident, we strongly recommend familiarizing yourself with the answers to the following questions.

What Should I Do After a Bus Accident?

The actions taken immediately following a bus accident can significantly affect the outcome of any legal proceedings. 

• Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if injuries appear minor, a medical examination should be performed, as some injuries may not be immediately visible. 
• Report the accident to the authorities so that a formal record is created. This report will provide important details, including the circumstances of the accident and the parties involved.
• If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible damages. 
• Witness statements can also be valuable, as they may provide additional perspectives on how the incident occurred. Collecting this evidence can help strengthen any potential claim in the future. 

After receiving medical care, contact our experienced San Bernardino County bus accident lawyers. We can provide an initial consultation, manage the claims process, deal with insurance companies, and advise on the best steps to take next.

How Do Bus Accidents Differ from Other Vehicle Accidents?

To start, the nature of the vehicle and the number of passengers involved can complicate matters. In a typical car accident, the accident involves two parties, and the legal process primarily focuses on them. When a bus is involved, the case may involve not only the driver but also the bus company, local government entities, or private organizations operating the vehicle. This can introduce a wide range of legal and regulatory issues that must be carefully addressed.

Bus accidents can also involve multiple parties who may hold varying degrees of responsibility. For instance, if the accident is caused by the negligence of the bus driver, the company they work for may also be liable. If the bus was owned by a public entity, such as a city or county, additional considerations and legal requirements may apply.  

What Compensation Can I Expect from a Bus Accident Claim?

The compensation available in a bus accident claim depends on the severity of the injuries, the liability of the involved parties, and the circumstances surrounding the incident. In many cases, individuals are entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the injuries result in long-term medical needs or permanent disability, additional compensation may be necessary to cover future costs.

Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases where the responsible party acted recklessly or maliciously. For example, if a bus driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash, punitive damages could be imposed in addition to compensation for injuries. Our San Bernardino County bus accident lawyers can evaluate the details of your case and provide an accurate assessment of the potential compensation.  

How Long Do I Have to File a Bus Accident Claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a bus accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, it is two years after the person’s passing. That means you must file a claim within that time frame or risk losing the opportunity to seek compensation. 

However, there are exceptions to this rule; when a bus is owned by a government agency, the time period may be significantly shorter. In addition to the statute of limitations, certain procedures must be followed, such as providing notice of your claim to the responsible agency or party within a specific time frame. Missing these deadlines can also jeopardize your case, so taking immediate steps to protect your legal rights after a bus accident is critical.

How Do I Prove Liability in a Bus Accident?

Proving liability in a bus accident can be more challenging than in a typical car accident due to the multiple parties that may be involved. First, it must be determined who caused the accident. This could be the driver, the bus company, a third party responsible for road maintenance, or even a defective bus part manufacturer. 

Once the responsible party is identified, the next step is to gather evidence that links their actions (or inactions) to the cause of the accident. Witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reports are all critical pieces of evidence in determining liability. The bus company’s maintenance records and driver logs may also provide valuable information, particularly if the accident was caused by improper vehicle upkeep or driver fatigue. 

Our knowledgeable San Bernardino County bus accident lawyers complete comprehensive investigations into these crashes. That can increase the chances of proving liability and successfully pursuing fair compensation.

What Happens if the Bus Is a Government-Owned Vehicle?

Government entities have certain immunities that may limit the ability to file a claim against them. These entities are also subject to different rules and regulations compared to private companies. For example, claims against a government entity may require filing a special notice within six months of the accident rather than the usual two-year time frame.

It is important to consult with our San Bernardino County bus accident lawyers who have experience with government-related claims. We can guide you through the specific steps necessary to hold the government accountable for any negligence or wrongdoing.

Our Experienced San Bernardino County Bus Accident Lawyers at Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel Fight to Pursue Justice for Clients

Turn to our experienced San Bernardino County bus accident lawyers at Lerner Moore Silva Cunningham & Rubel to learn more about how we can help you with your case. Our dedicated legal team works tirelessly to advocate for clients’ rights so they can focus on healing. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call our Ontario or Victorville, California, office at 909-889-1131. We proudly serve clients in San Bernardino County, Ontario, Victorville, Hesperia, Apple Valley, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Colton, and Riverside County.