California Bus Accident Lawyer

Bus accidents often result in serious injuries due to the size, weight, and passenger capacity of buses.
When a bus crash occurs, injured passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and occupants of other vehicles may have the right to pursue compensation under California law.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez represents individuals and families injured in bus accidents throughout California.
We handle claims involving public transit buses, school buses, charter buses, tour buses, and private transportation companies.

Bus accident cases are often more complex than standard motor vehicle collisions.
They may involve government entities, transportation authorities, commercial operators, and multiple insurance policies.
Early legal action is critical to protecting your rights.

Understanding Bus Accident Claims in California

Bus accident cases involve different legal rules than ordinary car accident claims.
Depending on the type of bus involved, liability may extend to private transportation companies, school districts, or public transit agencies.

When a public bus or government-operated vehicle is involved, injured victims may face strict procedural requirements and shorter deadlines.
Missing a required filing deadline can permanently eliminate your right to compensation, even if the bus driver or agency was clearly at fault.

The information below provides a general overview of how bus accident claims work in California, what makes these cases unique, and why early legal action is often critical after a serious bus-related injury.

Bus Accident Injury Claims in California

Bus accident injuries are often severe due to the size, weight, and passenger capacity of buses.
Unlike ordinary car accidents, bus accident claims may involve public transit agencies, school districts, or other government entities, making these cases more complex and time-sensitive.
California law allows injured victims to pursue compensation when a bus accident is caused by negligence, unsafe operation, poor maintenance, or dangerous roadway conditions.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can occur for many reasons, many of which are preventable.
Common causes include:

• Driver negligence, distraction, or fatigue
• Unsafe lane changes or failure to yield
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Poor vehicle maintenance or mechanical failure
• Inadequate driver training or supervision
• Dangerous road design or construction zones
• Failure to follow traffic laws or safety regulations

Who May Be Liable for a Bus Accident?

Bus accident claims often involve multiple responsible parties.
Depending on the circumstances, liability may fall on:

• Public transit agencies or municipalities
• Private bus, charter, or tour companies
• School districts or school transportation contractors
• Bus drivers or other commercial operators
• Maintenance or repair companies
• Manufacturers of defective bus components
• Other negligent motorists involved in the crash

Determining who is responsible requires a careful investigation of ownership, operation, maintenance, and control of the bus involved in the accident.

Important Deadline for Claims Involving Public Buses

If your bus accident involved a public bus line, city transit system, school bus, or other government-operated vehicle, special rules apply.
Under California law, claims against government entities must typically be filed within six months of the date of the accident.

This is not a lawsuit — it is a required government claim.
If this claim is not properly filed on time, you may lose your right to pursue compensation forever, regardless of how serious your injuries are.

Because these deadlines are strict and unforgiving, it is critical to speak with an experienced California bus accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash involving a public entity.

Injuries Commonly Seen in Bus Accidents

Because many buses do not have seat belts and passengers are often standing or moving, injuries can be especially serious.
Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord, neck, and back injuries
• Broken bones and orthopedic injuries
• Internal organ injuries
• Severe cuts, bruises, and soft tissue injuries
• Permanent disability or impairment

Compensation Available After a Bus Accident

Victims injured in bus accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses and future medical care
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent injury or disability
• Wrongful death damages when a loved one is killed

Bus Accident Questions & Answers

Do I have a case if I was injured on a bus?

You may have a valid claim if your injuries were caused by negligence, unsafe driving, poor maintenance, or dangerous conditions.
The responsible party may be a private company, a government agency, or multiple parties.

Is there a shorter deadline for public bus accidents?

Yes.
If a government entity is involved, California law generally requires a government claim to be filed within six months of the accident.
Missing this deadline can permanently bar your case.

What if another driver caused the bus accident?

In some cases, another motorist may be partially or fully responsible.
California law allows claims against all negligent parties, and multiple insurance policies may apply.

Should I talk to the bus company or their insurer?

Bus companies and public agencies often move quickly to protect themselves.
Speaking with an attorney before giving statements helps protect your rights and prevents mistakes that could harm your claim.

Speak With a California Bus Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident anywhere in California, do not wait to seek legal help.
Bus accident claims can involve complex liability issues and strict deadlines, especially when public agencies are involved.

The Law Office of Norman Gregory Fernandez has nearly 30 years of experience handling serious personal injury and transportation accident cases.
We work directly with injured clients and families to protect their rights and pursue maximum compensation.

Consultations are free, and there is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.