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Bus Accident Guide: Protecting Your Rights After a Crash
Bus accidents—whether involving city transit, school buses, tour buses, or private shuttles—present unique legal challenges. Raffi Naljian helps bus accident victims understand the special rules that may apply, including government claim requirements for public transit accidents. This guide explains what steps to take whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or occupant of another vehicle.
Injured in a bus accident?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Bus accident cases may involve government entities (city transit, school districts) with special procedures and short deadlines. Raffi Naljian handles these complex cases and understands the differences between public and private bus claims. When seeking a bus accident attorney, look for someone familiar with government claim procedures and common carrier liability. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
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What to Do Next
- 1Seek immediate medical attention—bus accidents often cause serious injuries
- 2Identify the bus company (city transit, private company, school district)
- 3Get the bus number and driver information
- 4Take photos inside the bus if possible (aisles, handrails, your seat)
- 5Get contact information from other passengers
- 6Report the accident to the bus company
- 7Note the date carefully—government claims have strict deadlines
- 8Consult an attorney quickly if a government entity is involved
Evidence Checklist
- Bus company name and bus number
- Driver identification
- Photos of the bus and accident scene
- Medical records and bills
- Witness information (especially other passengers)
- Transit authority incident report (if public bus)
- Video footage (many buses have cameras)
- Your ticket or fare payment record
Dealing with a city transit accident?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the government claim deadline (often just 6 months)
- Not identifying which entity operates the bus
- Assuming the same rules apply as regular car accidents
- Not requesting bus surveillance footage before it's overwritten
- Failing to document injuries from falls inside the bus
- Not getting other passenger contact information
How the Process Typically Works
1
Immediate
Medical care, identify bus operator, document everything
2
Government Claim (if applicable)
File claim within 6 months for public entities
3
Investigation
Obtain bus footage, witness statements, records
4
Treatment
Complete medical care
5
Claim/Lawsuit
Pursue claim through appropriate channels
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Emergency medical treatment
- •Hospitalization and surgery
- •Physical therapy
- •Lost wages
- •Pain and suffering
- •Future medical care
- •Permanent disability
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the deadline for claims against city buses?
For government entities in California, you typically must file an administrative claim within 6 months of the accident. This is much shorter than the standard 2-year statute of limitations. Missing this deadline can bar your claim entirely.
What if I fell inside the bus?
Bus companies have a duty to operate safely and warn of sudden stops. If a sudden stop or start caused your fall, the bus company may be liable. Document where you were standing/sitting and what caused you to fall.
Are bus companies held to a higher standard?
Yes. Buses are "common carriers" under California law, meaning they owe passengers the highest degree of care. This is a higher standard than ordinary drivers.
What if I was hit by a bus while in my car?
The same government claim deadlines may apply if it was a public transit bus. Treat it like any car accident for evidence gathering, but be aware of the shorter filing deadline.
Can I get the bus's video footage?
Many buses have surveillance cameras. Your attorney can request this footage through proper channels. Acting quickly is important—footage may be overwritten after a certain period.
What if it was a school bus?
School bus accidents may involve school district immunity issues and special procedures. The government claim deadline still applies. These cases can be complex and require experienced handling.
Bus accidents have special rules. Don't miss your deadline.
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Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.