Being injured as a passenger on a bus can be a frightening and confusing experience. Unlike car accidents, bus crashes often involve multiple parties, large groups of people, and complex liability issues. Whether you were riding a public transit bus, a school bus, or a private charter vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, pursuing a personal injury claim as a bus passenger requires a clear understanding of your rights and the legal steps involved. To learn more about your legal rights, contact a bus accident attorney to discuss your case.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Bus Accident
If you suffered an injury as a passenger in a bus accident, your first priority should always be your health and safety. Follow these steps as soon as possible:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you do not feel seriously hurt, some injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma—may not show symptoms right away.
- Report the incident: Make sure your injury is documented by the bus driver, law enforcement, or emergency responders at the scene.
- Get a copy of the police report: This document can be vital when determining liability and proving your case later.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Bus Passenger Injury?
Determining who is legally responsible for your injuries depends on how the accident occurred. Here are some of the potentially liable parties:
The Bus Driver
If the driver was negligent—such as by speeding, driving distracted, or failing to follow traffic laws—they may be held personally responsible for the crash. However, in most cases, the driver’s employer will share or take on the liability.
The Bus Company or Transit Authority
If the driver was working within the scope of their job, the bus company or public transportation agency that employs them can often be held liable. This is based on a legal principle called “vicarious liability,” which holds employers accountable for their employees’ actions on the job. The bus company may be considered a common carrier, meaning they owe you a higher duty of care.
Other Drivers
In some situations, the bus driver may not be at fault at all. If another vehicle caused the collision by acting negligently—like running a red light or failing to yield—that driver and their insurance provider may be held responsible.
Bus Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers
If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure or a defective part—such as faulty brakes, worn tires, or malfunctioning steering—then the manufacturer or maintenance company can be liable for the resulting injuries.
How Is Filing a Claim Different for Public vs. Private Buses?
Whether the bus was operated by a private company or a public agency makes a significant difference in how your claim must be handled.
Public Transit Buses
If the bus is operated by a government entity—such as a city or county transit system—your claim is subject to special rules. Government entities typically have sovereign immunity, which limits their liability and places strict deadlines and procedures on how and when you can file a claim. For example:
- You may have as little as 60 to 180 days to file a Notice of Claim before you can pursue a lawsuit.
- Damages may be capped by law, limiting the amount you can recover.
Because of these restrictions, it’s especially important to contact a personal injury attorney right away if your accident involved a public bus.
Private Buses
If the bus was operated by a private company—such as a charter bus, tour bus, or school bus operated by a contractor—the process follows standard personal injury procedures. You’ll file a claim with the company’s insurance provider or file a lawsuit in civil court. These companies are usually required to carry substantial liability insurance, which can be helpful in securing compensation for your injuries.
What If You Were Injured in a School Bus Accident?
If your child suffered an injury on a school bus, your case may involve different legal standards and emotional considerations. Depending on whether the school bus is operated by the school district (a public entity) or a private contractor, your legal options and deadlines will vary. In any case, a child’s injuries must be taken seriously, and you should speak to an attorney with experience handling school transportation injury claims.
Time Limits and Deadlines for Filing a Claim
Every personal injury claim is subject to a statute of limitations—a legal deadline for filing your lawsuit. In most states, this is two to three years from the date of the accident. However, claims against public transit agencies often have much shorter notice requirements. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely. You do not want to be caught unaware of any accelerated deadline.
That is why it is critical to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident. They can help you understand your deadlines and begin the process of protecting your rights.
Why You Need a Bus Accident Attorney for Your Case
If you have suffered an injury in a bus accident, hiring a bus accident attorney is essential to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. These cases often involve complex liability issues, multiple injured parties, and powerful defendants like government agencies or large transportation companies. Do not make the mistake of assuming that the government agency would be any easier to deal with than an insurance company because they are also tasked with protecting their own budgets.
A skilled attorney can investigate the accident, gather key evidence, navigate strict legal deadlines, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Without legal guidance, you risk missing key details that can hurt your claim. An experienced bus accident lawyer ensures you are not taken advantage of and helps you pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. You do not need to pay a bus accident lawyer anything for their time and services unless you win your case.
Call an Experienced Bus Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured as a passenger on a bus, you should always call a Nashua personal injury lawyer near you as soon as possible. They will ensure your rights are protected and seek the compensation you are owed, from all liable parties or entities. Don’t delay, help is a phone call away.