If you or a loved one were hurt in a bus crash in Hollywood, you might be wondering what to do next. Between the medical bills, doctor visits, and insurance calls, it can feel like a lot. You’re probably searching for a bus accident lawyer near me someone who understands the process and can help you get the compensation you need to move forward.
That’s what we’re here for. As experienced Hollywood personal injury lawyers, we know how bus accident claims work, and we’re ready to help you every step of the way.
Why You Need a Hollywood Bus Accident Lawyer
Bus accidents are more complicated than typical auto accidents. You’re not just dealing with another driver; you might be up against bus companies, government agencies, or private companies that operate public transportation. Our legal team has a proven track record of helping victims recover compensation for their injuries, including spinal cord injuries, neck injuries, and other catastrophic injuries.
We understand the complexities of personal injury law and know how to handle insurance companies that try to minimize your claim. From conducting thorough background checks to gathering evidence like skid marks and traffic conditions, we build a strong case to support your claim.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Hollywood
Hollywood’s streets are filled with activity from tourists on charter buses to children on school buses. With heavy traffic and complex road conditions, accidents involving buses are more common than many realize.
Bus accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Distracted driving - Bus drivers using phones, adjusting controls, or losing focus.
- Reckless driving - Speeding, aggressive lane changes, or disobeying traffic laws.
- Drowsy driving - Drivers staying behind the wheel for long hours.
- Inclement weather - Rain, fog, or other weather conditions affecting visibility.
- Poor road maintenance - Potholes, uneven surfaces, and other hazards.
Regardless of the cause, if negligence played a role in your accident, you might have a valid claim for compensation.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bus Accidents
Bus accidents often cause serious injuries because of the vehicle’s size and weight. Passengers, pedestrians, and those in smaller passenger vehicles can all suffer significant harm. Common injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries - Which can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Neck injuries - Such as whiplash or herniated discs.
- Broken bones - Particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs.
- Traumatic brain injuries - From hitting windows or other hard surfaces.
- Emotional distress -The psychological impact of the crash itself.
If you're dealing with medical expenses like physical therapy or surgery, you shouldn’t have to figure it out alone. Our personal injury lawyers can help you pursue compensation for those costs.
Who’s Responsible for a Bus Accident?
Bus accident cases often involve more than one responsible party. Here are some of the most common:
- Bus drivers - Mistakes like distracted driving or disobeying traffic signals.
- Bus companies - Failure to conduct proper background checks or maintenance.
- Government agencies - For accidents involving public transportation like Metro buses.
- Other drivers - Drivers who cause traffic accidents by running lights, speeding, or unsafe lane changes.
Our personal injury law firm investigates the details like skid marks, police reports, and witness accounts to identify who is responsible and build a strong case.
Municipal vs. Private Bus Accidents: Why It Matters
Not all bus accident cases follow the same rules. If your accident involves public transportation, like an LA Metro bus, the legal process is different than for a private company like a tour or charter service.
Municipal Bus Accidents (Public Transportation)
- Governed by government agencies like the LA Department of Transportation.
- Shorter filing deadline: You have only six months to file a claim.
- Claims often face additional red tape, requiring precise documentation.
Private Bus Accidents (Charter or Tour Buses)
- Claims go through the company's private insurer.
- The statute of limitations in California is two years from the accident date.
- Private companies are responsible for proper background checks, training, and maintenance.
Our attorneys know how to handle both public transportation and private bus claims. If your accident involved a school district, city-run transit, or a charter bus, we’ll make sure your case meets the proper deadlines.
When the Bus Manufacturer Is to Blame
Bus accidents don’t always result from driver error. Sometimes, mechanical failures cause devastating crashes. Under California law, bus manufacturers and bus companies must ensure that buses are safe and roadworthy. When they neglect this responsibility, innocent passengers suffer.
Common Mechanical Failures Leading to Bus Accidents
- Brake failure - Worn or defective brakes prevent the bus from stopping in time.
- Steering system malfunctions - Faulty components can cause buses to veer off course.
- Tire blowouts - Improper maintenance can lead to dangerous blowouts, especially in heavy traffic.
- Lighting failures - Faulty headlights or brake lights reduce visibility, particularly in poor weather conditions.
How We Investigate:
Our team works with mechanics and accident reconstruction experts to identify mechanical defects. If a faulty component caused the crash, we’ll hold the bus company or manufacturer accountable.
How Our Hollywood Bus Accident Lawyers Can Help
1. We Handle the Legal Heavy Lifting
After a bus crash, you're likely dealing with medical care, emotional distress, and disrupted daily life. Our legal services take the burden off your shoulders. We:
- Conduct thorough background checks on bus drivers and bus companies
- Analyze skid marks, weather conditions, and traffic reports to build a solid case
- Communicate with insurance companies to negotiate fair settlements
- Investigate whether government agencies (like a school district operating a school bus) might be liable
2. We Fight for Full Compensation
Bus accident victims are often entitled to more than just coverage for their hospital bills. We pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills (including emergency medical care and physical therapy)
- Lost wages if you can't work due to your injuries
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and loss of consortium
- Property damage from the accident
- Punitive damages in cases involving reckless or negligent behavior
In cases involving wrongful death, we help families seek financial compensation for funeral costs, burial expenses, and the emotional toll of their loss.
3. We Offer Personalized, Compassionate Service
We understand that every bus crash is different. Whether you're dealing with a city bus accident, a school bus accident, or a crash involving a private company, we treat your case with the care and attention it deserves. Our track record speaks for itself we've helped countless clients recover compensation after devastating auto accidents.
Don't Wait: California's Time Limit for Filing a Bus Accident Claim
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. If a government agency is involved like a school district for a school bus accident the deadline may be shorter.
Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation. Call our experienced bus accident attorneys today to make sure your case is filed on time.
Types of Bus Accidents We Handle
Our auto accident attorneys have worked with clients involved in all types of bus-related accidents, including:
- City bus accidents - Like those operated by Metro or DASH services.
- School bus accidents - Involving school districts and school bus drivers.
- Charter bus accidents - Private or commercial vehicles transporting groups.
- Shuttle bus accidents - Common at hotels, airports, and event venues.
No matter the mode of transportation, we have the experience to handle your case effectively.
Hollywood Bus Accident Lawyer FAQs
How Much Do Accident Attorneys Charge in California?
Most accident attorneys in California work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Their fees typically range from 25% to 40% of the total settlement or verdict. This fee structure allows victims to pursue compensation without the burden of upfront legal costs.
What if the bus driver wasn’t at fault?
Liability can extend to the bus company, other drivers, government agencies, or manufacturers. We investigate all possible causes to identify responsible parties.
What is the time limit for filing a bus accident claim in California?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, claims against government agencies may have shorter deadlines.
Contact Our Hollywood Bus Accident Lawyers Today
A bus accident can impact your life, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our personal injury attorneys are here to help you get back on track.
Call us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process.
Your recovery is our priority. Let’s work together to make things right.
