COMMON CAUSES OF BUS ACCIDENTS
Buses are designed and built with passenger safety in mind. Even so, automobile accidents are an unfortunate reality and a common occurrence on the roads and freeways.
Our firm has handled cases involving bus accidents caused by:
- Distracted driving
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Defective vehicle components, including faulty brakes, windows, seats, etc.
- Unsafe road conditions, such as road defects or potholes.
- Reckless driving, including speeding, failing to yield, failing to check blind spots, and other traffic violations.
The attorneys at LNN represent any party who has been injured in a bus accident in Los Angeles, including passengers, bus drivers, pedestrians, and drivers who have been struck by a bus. From school children, senior citizens, everyday commuters, to other drivers on the roads, we are prepared to represent clients from all walks of life pursue just compensation for their injuries.
Bus accidents often involve a mix of private companies, city agencies, and multiple insurance carriers, which makes these cases far more complex than a typical traffic collision. Levin & Nalbandyan understands how quickly these situations escalate and how difficult it can feel trying to figure out your next step while dealing with painful injuries, missed work, or a damaged vehicle. Our team regularly assists clients throughout Los Angeles, including those injured on city buses, school buses, shuttle services, and privately operated charter vehicles.
Steps to Take After a Bus Accident
After any bus crash, the actions taken in the hours and days that follow can influence how well your claim is documented. If you are able, begin by calling 911 and requesting medical attention. Bus accidents often generate multiple injured parties, and it is important to make sure your injuries are formally evaluated and recorded.
If you were a passenger, report your injury to the driver and ensure the incident is entered into the transportation company’s records. Take photos of the bus, your injuries, debris, skid marks, traffic signals, and anything else that helps capture the scene.
If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information before they leave, as these individuals are often difficult to track down later.
You should also avoid giving recorded statements to any insurance company before you have spoken with a lawyer. Large transit carriers and government agencies often have legal teams that respond immediately after an incident, and their priority is limiting liability. Finally, contact Levin & Nalbandyan so our team can preserve evidence, secure black-box data, and begin communicating with the appropriate agencies on your behalf.
Statute of Limitations and Filing Deadlines
California bus accident cases follow the general two-year statute of limitations for personal injury, but many bus collisions involve public transportation agencies such as LADOT, Metro, or school districts. Claims against these entities require a government claim to be filed within six months. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation entirely.
Government claims are highly procedural, and even small mistakes can result in a denial. After the claim is submitted, the agency has a set period of time to respond. If the claim is rejected, you then have a limited window to file a lawsuit.
If the bus was operated by a private charter or shuttle company, the timeline may follow the standard two-year period, but evidence still needs to be secured quickly. Levin & Nalbandyan routinely handles cases involving both private carriers and Los Angeles governmental entities, and our team ensures all notices, filings, and deadlines are properly completed.
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