Bus Accident FAQs

Responsibility for injuries in a bus accident depends on the specific circumstances. Liability may rest with the bus driver, the bus company, a third-party driver, a manufacturer, or a government entity.

• If the bus driver acted carelessly or violated traffic laws, the bus company could be held liable under the legal doctrine of “respondeat superior.”
• If another motorist caused the crash, their insurance might be responsible for covering injuries.
• In cases involving mechanical failure or defective parts, the manufacturer or maintenance provider may be held accountable.
• When a public transit agency operates the bus, claims often involve additional legal procedures and notice requirements under state or federal law.

Yes, pursuing a personal injury claim after a bus accident often involves unique legal procedures compared to standard car crash claims. Bus accidents may involve multiple injured passengers, commercial insurance policies, and sometimes, government or municipal entities.

Claims against public transportation providers are subject to strict notice requirements and shorter filing deadlines. Additionally, there may be caps on recoverable damages when suing a government agency, and establishing fault can require a detailed investigation into company policies, driver records, and bus maintenance logs.

Filing a claim against a government or public transportation agency follows a different process from claims against private parties. Most states require that you submit a formal notice of claim within a specific period, often as little as 30 to 180 days after the incident. This notice typically must include the details of the incident, the injuries sustained, and the compensation sought.

Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation. Once the notice is filed, the agency will investigate and either accept or deny the claim. If your claim is denied or not settled, you may then proceed with a lawsuit, subject to additional rules and limitations. It is important to follow the required procedures closely to preserve your right to recovery.