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?
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 ProfileBus 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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Dealing with a city transit accident?
Medical care, identify bus operator, document everything
File claim within 6 months for public entities
Obtain bus footage, witness statements, records
Complete medical care
Pursue claim through appropriate channels
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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