Los Angeles Bus Accident Lawyer

Hurt in a Bus Crash? Here’s What You Need to Know.

You’re dealing with pain, medical bills, and missed work. Maybe you’re wondering how long recovery will take or if you’ll ever feel normal again. On top of that, the bus company and their insurance team are already working to pay you as little as possible or nothing at all.

It’s frustrating. It’s unfair. And it’s the last thing you should have to worry about right now.

At the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti, we help people just like you bus accident victims in Los Angeles who deserve fair compensation but are up against powerful insurance companies. Whether you were on a city bus, school bus, or private shuttle, we know how to fight back and win. You focus on healing we’ll handle everything else.

Bus accident cases aren’t simple. They often involve large corporations, government agencies, and insurance adjusters who will try to make your case disappear. That’s why having an experienced Los Angeles bus accident lawyer on your side makes all the difference. As a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, I know their tactics, and I know how to get results.

Call (626) 793-8607 for a Free Case Review. Let’s figure out your next steps together.

Los Angeles Bus Accident Statistics

Bus accidents happen more often than most people realize. With millions of people relying on public transportation in Los Angeles, these crashes can have serious consequences, leaving victims with life-changing injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress. If you've been hurt in a bus crash, you’re not alone and the numbers prove it.

How Common Are Bus Accidents in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles sees hundreds of bus accidents every year. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), California consistently ranks among the top states for bus-related crashes. These accidents involve public transit buses, school buses, tour buses, and private shuttles, each carrying dozens of passengers who could be at risk.

Recent reports show that:

Bus accidents cause thousands of injuries every year in California alone.
Fatalities from bus crashes continue to be a concern, especially in high-traffic areas like Los Angeles.
School bus crashes account for a significant percentage of these incidents, often involving young children.
Compared to other major cities, Los Angeles has one of the highest rates of bus-related crashes due to heavy traffic and busy roadways.

The Impact of a Bus Crash Goes Beyond the Numbers

Statistics only tell part of the story. The real impact is felt by the people whose lives are turned upside down.

For example, imagine a commuter taking the city bus to work. A distracted driver runs a red light, slamming into the side of the bus. The commuter suffers a fractured leg, a concussion, and months of lost income because they can’t return to work. The bus company’s insurance fights back, offering a lowball settlement that doesn’t even cover medical bills.

This is the reality for many victims. A bus accident isn’t just a bad collision it can leave people physically, emotionally, and financially devastated. That’s why having experienced bus accident attorneys matters.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Los Angeles

Bus crashes don’t just happen they’re almost always caused by someone’s negligence. Whether it’s a bus driver, a reckless motorist, a bus manufacturer, or a government agency, identifying the responsible party is key to getting compensation.

Driver-Related Causes

Bus drivers have a responsibility to keep passengers safe. But when they make mistakes, people get hurt. Some of the most common causes of bus crashes include:

Distracted Driving – A driver looking at their phone or talking to a passenger takes their eyes off the road for just a few seconds, and that’s all it takes for a crash to happen.
Speeding & Reckless Driving – Bus schedules are tight, and some drivers speed or take dangerous risks to stay on time, putting everyone in danger.
Driving Under the Influence – A bus driver operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a disaster waiting to happen. Even prescription medications can impair judgment and reaction time.
Fatigue & Overworked Drivers – Long shifts without proper rest make bus drivers more likely to doze off at the wheel, leading to serious crashes.

Vehicle-Related Causes

Not all bus accidents are caused by human error sometimes, the bus itself is unsafe.

Mechanical Failures – A bus losing its brakes on a steep hill or a blown tire on a highway can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Lack of Maintenance – Bus companies are required to regularly inspect and repair their vehicles, but when they cut corners to save money, passengers pay the price.
Defective Parts or Poor Manufacturing – Sometimes, a bus manufacturer sells a vehicle with faulty brakes, steering, or electrical systems, making it unsafe to drive from day one.

External Causes

Even when the bus driver and vehicle are in perfect condition, other factors can still lead to accidents.

Dangerous Road Conditions – Potholes, broken traffic signals, and poorly marked lanes can make driving unsafe, especially for large vehicles like buses.
Poor Weather – Rain, fog, and slippery roads increase the risk of crashes, especially when drivers fail to adjust their speed and braking distance.
Other Negligent Drivers – A reckless driver cutting off a bus or speeding through a red light can cause a major collision, injuring passengers inside the bus and people in other vehicles.

Why Knowing the Cause of the Crash Matters

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, finding out who’s responsible is the first step in filing a bus accident claim. Whether it’s the bus company, a reckless driver, or a manufacturer, the liable party should be held accountable for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

This is where personal injury attorneys step in. Our job is to investigate the crash, gather evidence, and prove who’s at fault, so you don’t get stuck paying for someone else’s mistake.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Los Angeles Bus Accident?

After a bus collision, one of the biggest questions is: Who’s responsible? Unlike a regular car accident, the answer isn’t always simple. Bus accidents often involve multiple parties, each with a different level of responsibility. Holding the negligent party accountable is the key to recovering financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

When the Bus Driver is at Fault

Bus drivers are trained professionals, but they’re still human. Mistakes behind the wheel can have serious consequences, especially when carrying dozens of bus passengers. Some of the most common reasons a bus driver may be responsible for an accident include:

Distracted driving – Looking at a phone, talking to passengers, or even adjusting the radio can take their focus off the road.
Reckless driving – Speeding, tailgating, or making sudden lane changes can be dangerous, especially for a large vehicle.
Driver fatigue – Long hours and demanding schedules can lead to exhausted drivers, which slows reaction time.
Driving under the influence – Alcohol or drugs even prescription medication can impair judgment and coordination.

Imagine a city bus driver looking at their GPS instead of watching the road. In a split second, they run a red light and T-bone a car, seriously injuring the driver. In this case, the bus driver (and likely their employer) would be legally responsible for the accident.

When the Bus Company or Employer is at Fault

Bus companies whether it’s a private company or a public transit agency are responsible for hiring, training, and supervising their drivers. If they fail to do their job, they can be held liable. Some of the biggest mistakes bus companies make include:

Hiring unqualified drivers – If a company doesn’t check a driver’s background or safety record, they’re putting passengers at risk.
Skipping maintenance – A bus that isn’t properly maintained can have brake failures, engine problems, or tire blowouts.
Forcing unsafe schedules – Pushing drivers to work long hours without rest leads to driver fatigue, a major cause of accidents.

If a private bus company puts profits over safety, they should be held accountable.

When the Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer is at Fault

Not all accidents are caused by human error. Sometimes, a bus has a defect that makes it unsafe to drive. If a bus manufacturer sells vehicles with faulty brakes, defective tires, or electrical issues, they can be held responsible for an accident.

For example, imagine a school bus accident caused by brake failure. If the investigation finds that the brakes had a dangerous defect, the bus manufacturer could be sued for wrongful death or catastrophic injuries.

When the Government is at Fault

If the accident involved a public transportation bus, a government entity might be responsible. The city or state could be liable if:

The roads were unsafe – Potholes, broken traffic lights, or dangerous intersections can cause accidents.
The bus wasn’t properly inspected – Government-run buses must be regularly checked to ensure they are safe to operate.

Filing a claim against the government is complicated, and the statute of limitations is much shorter than for private lawsuits. Acting fast is critical.

When Another Driver is at Fault

Not all bus accidents are the bus driver’s fault. Sometimes, another driver cuts off the bus, runs a stop sign, or causes a chain reaction crash. In those cases, the negligent party is the other driver, and they can be held accountable for injuries to bus passengers and other motorists.

How Negligence is Proven in a Bus Accident Case

Winning a bus accident claim requires more than just proving you were hurt. You have to prove negligence, meaning someone else caused the accident and should be held legally responsible.

Duty of Care

A bus driver, bus company, or government entity has a legal obligation to keep passengers and other drivers safe. That means:

Bus drivers must drive responsibly.
Bus companies must hire and train their drivers properly.
Manufacturers must sell safe buses.

Breach of Duty

Negligence happens when someone fails to meet their legal responsibility.

A bus driver running a stop sign
A bus company ignoring mechanical problems
A manufacturer selling a faulty bus

These are all examples of a breach of duty.

Causation

The next step is proving that this negligence directly caused the accident. If a bus driver was texting and crashed, we need to show that their distraction led to the accident and injuries.

Damages

Finally, you must prove how the accident affected your life. This can include:

Medical expenses – Hospital bills, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
Lost wages – If you missed work or can’t return to your job.
Pain and suffering – The emotional and physical impact of your injuries.

Every case is different, but the goal is the same: to recover maximum compensation for what you’ve lost.

Common Bus Accident Injuries

A bus accident isn’t like a car crash. Most bus passengers aren’t wearing seatbelts, and in a bad collision, people are thrown from their seats, hitting windows, poles, and each other. The result? Serious, life-changing injuries.

Physical Injuries

Some of the most common injuries in bus crashes include:

Whiplash and neck injuries – Sudden jerks can cause soft tissue damage and long-term pain.
Spinal cord injuries – In severe cases, victims can suffer paralysis or permanent nerve damage.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – A blow to the head can lead to memory problems, confusion, and cognitive issues.
Broken bones and fractures – Common in school bus accidents or rollover crashes.
Internal organ damage – Internal bleeding and organ damage aren’t always immediately obvious but can be life-threatening.

Emotional & Psychological Trauma

Physical wounds heal, but the mental scars can last forever. Many bus accident victims struggle with:

PTSD and anxiety – Nightmares, panic attacks, and a fear of travel are common.
Depression – Losing mobility, being out of work, or dealing with chronic pain can lead to serious emotional struggles.

For families who lose a loved one in a fatal accident, the emotional and financial burden is immense. In those cases, surviving family members may be eligible for wrongful death compensation, including Loss of Consortium and funeral expenses.

What Compensation is Available in Bus Accident Cases?

A bus accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. One moment, you’re on your way to work, school, or home and the next, you’re injured, facing medical bills, and wondering how you’re going to make ends meet. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden. The law allows you to seek compensation for your injuries, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Economic Damages: Covering Your Out-of-Pocket Costs

The first thing most victims worry about after a bus injury accident is how they’ll afford medical care. Treatment isn’t cheap, and a serious injury can leave you out of work for weeks or even months.

Compensation can cover:

Medical bills – Emergency room visits, surgery, hospital stays, and ongoing rehabilitation
Lost wages – If you can’t work because of your injuries, you can recover the money you would have earned
Property damage – If your car, bike, or personal belongings were damaged in the accident
Home modifications – If your injuries require a wheelchair ramp, special equipment, or other adjustments to your living space

Non-Economic Damages: What You’ve Lost Beyond the Bills

Not all losses can be measured in dollars. Some damages go beyond financial recovery and impact your quality of life in ways that are harder to calculate.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

Pain and suffering – Ongoing chronic pain, mobility issues, and lasting discomfort
Emotional distress – PTSD, depression, and anxiety caused by the trauma of the accident
Loss of enjoyment of life – If your injuries prevent you from doing things you love, like sports, hobbies, or even playing with your kids
Wrongful death – If you lost a loved one in a fatal bus accident, you may be able to recover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and lost financial support

Punitive Damages: Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

If negligent bus drivers, companies, or manufacturers acted with extreme recklessness, the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the responsible party and send a message that this kind of behavior won’t be tolerated.

For example, if a bus driver was texting and caused a fatal crash, the court may order additional damages to discourage this dangerous behavior in the future.

If you’re wondering how much your case is worth, a bus accident lawyer can review your situation and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Bus Accident in Los Angeles

The shock and confusion after a bus crash can make it hard to think clearly. But what you do next matters not just for your health, but for your ability to file a personal injury claim.

1. Get Medical Help Right Away

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries like concussions and internal bleeding don’t show symptoms right away. Medical records also serve as important evidence if you decide to file a claim.

2. Report the Accident

Call 911 and make sure the police file an accident report. If you were a passenger on a bus, make sure the bus company is also notified.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you’re able to, take photos and videos of:

The accident scene
The bus, other vehicles, and road conditions
Your injuries

4. Get Contact Information from Witnesses

If anyone saw what happened, get their name and phone number. Witness statements can be crucial evidence when proving fault.

5. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice

The bus company’s insurance team may call you right away, asking for a statement or offering a low settlement. Don’t accept anything or sign any documents without speaking to an attorney.

6. Talk to a Bus Accident Lawyer

An experienced lawyer can help you protect your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. The sooner you call, the better.

Settlement vs. Trial in Bus Accident Claims

Most bus accident cases end in a settlement but sometimes, taking your case to trial is the only way to get fair compensation.

When a Settlement Makes Sense

A settlement means the insurance company agrees to pay you an amount without going to court. Many people choose this option because:

It’s faster – Trials can take months or even years.
It’s less stressful – No need to testify in court.
It guarantees a payout – Trials are risky you could win big, or you could get nothing.

But settlements aren’t always fair. Insurance companies start with a low offer, hoping victims desperate for money will accept less than they deserve.

When a Trial Might Be Necessary

Sometimes, the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. If that happens, going to court may be the best option. A strong case can lead to a bigger payout, especially if you suffered catastrophic injuries or permanent disabilities.

A bus accident attorney can help you weigh your options and decide whether settling or going to trial is best for you.

Statute of Limitations for Bus Accident Claims in California

You don’t have unlimited time to file a personal injury claim. California law has strict deadlines, and if you miss them, you lose your right to compensation.

For most personal injury cases, you have 2 years from the date of the accident.
If a government agency (like a public transit bus) is involved, you only have 6 months to file a claim.

Waiting too long to take action can cost you everything. That’s why it’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.

How Much Does a Bus Accident Attorney Cost?

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you might be wondering, “Can I even afford a lawyer?” The good news is, you don’t have to worry about upfront costs when you work with us.

We handle bus accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case. No hourly rates, no out-of-pocket expenses our payment comes as a small percentage of your final settlement or court award.

And if you’re not sure whether you have a case, we offer a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, review the details, and let you know your legal options all at no cost to you. If you decide to move forward, we take care of the entire process so you can focus on healing.

Why Hire a Los Angeles Bus Accident Lawyer?

Bus accident cases aren’t like typical auto accidents. They often involve multiple parties responsible, from the bus driver to the bus company, third-party drivers, or even a public entity if it was a city or school bus. These cases can get complicated quickly, which is why having an experienced bus accident lawyer matters.

We Handle Complex Liability Issues

Who is responsible for your injuries? A bus company may claim that a third-party driver was at fault. Meanwhile, an insurance company might try to shift the blame onto you. Without the right legal representation, you could be left without the compensation you deserve.

We investigate every detail including the bus driver’s record, maintenance history, road conditions, and surveillance footage to prove who is legally responsible.

We Maximize Your Compensation

Medical bills add up quickly. Between doctor visits, rehabilitation, and lost wages, a bus accident can put serious financial strain on you and your family. Our goal is to recover full compensation for your injuries, including:

Medical expenses and future care
Lost wages and reduced earning ability
Pain and suffering
Wrongful death claims for families who lost a loved one

We don’t just look at the initial medical bills we consider long-term expenses to make sure you aren’t left paying for injuries caused by negligent behavior.

We Handle Insurance Negotiations

Insurance companies have one goal: pay as little as possible. They often deny claims, delay payments, or offer low settlements that don’t come close to covering your losses.

We know how insurance policies work, and we push back against unfair tactics to get you a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to negotiate in good faith, we’re ready to take them to court.

We Take Cases to Trial When Necessary

Sometimes, insurance adjusters and bus companies refuse to take responsibility. If that happens, we won’t settle for less than you deserve. We’re fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Our Los Angeles Bus Accident Law Firm?

When it comes to choosing a law firm, experience and results matter. Here’s why victims of bus accidents trust us:

Proven Track Record

We have successfully recovered millions of dollars for injury victims, including those hurt in bus accidents, truck accidents, and pedestrian accidents. Whether it’s a private company, a public transit agency, or a third-party driver, we know how to hold the responsible party accountable.

Personalized Legal Support

We know this is more than just a case it’s your life. You deserve an attorney who listens, answers your questions, and treats you with the utmost care. We provide one-on-one support and are available 24/7 to discuss your case.

Recognized and Respected Attorneys

Our attorneys have been recognized by top legal associations, and we have received awards for excellence in personal injury law.

Real Case Results

We’ve helped bus passengers, pedestrians, and other injured victims recover the compensation they needed to rebuild their lives.

For example, we recently represented a passenger injured in a school bus accident. The bus lacked seat belts, and the driver was distracted at the time of the crash. We fought for and secured a six-figure settlement, ensuring our client had the financial support for their medical recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a bus accident, you probably have a lot of questions. You’re not alone. Here are some of the most common concerns we hear—and what you need to know.

What if the bus company denies liability?

It’s not uncommon for bus companies or their insurance providers to try and shift the blame. They may argue that the driver wasn’t at fault, that another vehicle caused the crash, or even that you were responsible for your injuries.

That’s where we come in. As bus crash lawyers, we know how to cut through the excuses. We dig into the details bus maintenance records, surveillance footage, witness statements, and driver history to uncover the truth. If the bus company or bus owner tries to dodge responsibility, we make sure they don’t get away with it.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover compensation, even if you were partially responsible for the accident. Your final settlement may be reduced based on how much fault is assigned to you.

For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, and your damages total $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $80,000.

Insurance companies often try to blame the victim to pay out less. We won’t let them. If they’re wrongfully assigning blame, we fight back with strong evidence to protect your rights.

How long does a bus accident claim take?

It depends. Some cases settle within a few months, while others take over a year, especially if a trial is necessary.

A few factors can affect how long a case takes:

How clear liability is (Is it obvious who was at fault, or is there a dispute?)
The severity of your injuries (More serious injuries may require more medical evaluations and expert testimony)
Whether the insurance company is willing to negotiate (Some settle quickly, while others try to stall)
If a public transit or school bus is involved, as claims against government entities have stricter legal steps and shorter deadlines

We always work to move cases forward as quickly as possible, but we won’t settle for less than you deserve just to close a case fast.

What if I was a pedestrian or another driver involved in the crash?

Not all bus accident victims are passengers. If you were a pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver involved in a traffic accident with a bus, you still have the right to seek compensation if the bus driver’s negligence caused the crash.

For example, if a school bus driver ran a stop sign and hit a motorcycle rider, that rider could file a claim for compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Similarly, if a rideshare driver or another motor vehicle was hit by a bus that failed to yield, they could hold the bus owner, driver, or even the bus parts manufacturer responsible.

If a bus caused your accident, you shouldn’t have to pay the price. We can help you figure out who’s responsible and what your legal options are.

Contact an Experienced Bus Accident Attorney in Los Angeles Today

A bus accident isn’t just an inconvenience it can affect your health, your job, and your future. Whether it was a public transit bus, school bus, private shuttle, or commuter bus, you have the right to seek compensation if someone else was responsible.

If you’re facing medical bills, lost wages, or lasting pain, you don’t have to handle this alone. We understand the complexities of bus accident cases from bus driver distraction and poor maintenance to blind spots and bad road conditions. We take on insurance companies, government agencies, and bus owners to get our clients the compensation they deserve.

Call (626) 793-8607 for a Free Case Review – Available 24/7!

No Win, No Fee – You only pay if we win your case.
We handle the entire process – From investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies, we take care of everything.
We fight for maximum compensation – Whether it’s medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, we don’t settle for less.

Don’t wait - California law has strict deadlines for filing a claim. Call now or fill out our free case evaluation form to get started.