Bus Accidents

Bus Accidents in Southern California

Buses carry a heavy responsibility for the safety of their passengers and everyone else on the road. When a bus is involved in a collision, the injuries can be serious — and these cases often involve legal complexities that ordinary car accidents do not. At Petrosian Law, PC, we represent people injured in bus accidents throughout Southern California, whether they were passengers, pedestrians, or occupants of other vehicles.

We handle a range of bus accident cases, including those involving city and public transit buses, school buses, private charter and tour buses, and shuttle services.

What Makes Bus Accident Cases Different

Bus accident claims can be more complicated than typical motor vehicle cases for several reasons:

• Government entities — many buses are operated by public agencies, which are subject to special rules and procedural requirements.
• Common carrier duties — bus operators owe a heightened duty of care to their passengers.
• Multiple potential parties — the driver, the bus company, a maintenance provider, or a manufacturer may each bear some responsibility.
• Multiple injured parties — a single bus accident can involve many passengers and claims.

Because claims involving public entities often carry strict procedural requirements, it is especially important to seek legal guidance promptly after a bus accident.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

If you have been injured in a bus accident, the steps you take can affect both your health and any potential claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately — some serious injuries are not obvious right away.
• Report the incident and obtain any report or documentation available.
• Document everything — photos of the scene, the bus, and your injuries, if you are able.
• Get witness information if anyone saw what happened.
• Speak with an attorney promptly, particularly because claims involving public entities may involve special requirements.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Depending on the facts of your case, recoverable damages may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering and emotional distress
• Rehabilitation and long-term care costs

Why Petrosian Law

Vick V. Petrosian spent years litigating at some of California’s most notable plaintiff’s firms before founding Petrosian Law, PC. That experience means you get direct access to a litigator who understands what it takes to pressure insurance companies into fair settlements — and who prepares every case with the seriousness the process demands.

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is always free and confidential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the bus was operated by a city or public agency?

Claims involving public entities are subject to special procedural rules and often shorter timeframes than other cases. Because of this, it is especially important to speak with an attorney promptly so your rights can be protected.

Can I recover compensation as a bus passenger?

Yes. As a passenger, you were owed a high duty of care, and you may be entitled to compensation if a driver’s or company’s negligence caused your injuries. This is true whether the negligent party was the bus operator or another driver involved in the collision.

How much does it cost to hire a bus accident lawyer?

Petrosian Law, PC works on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney’s fees upfront and no fees at all unless we recover compensation in your case.

How long will my case take?

Every case is different. Some resolve relatively quickly through settlement, while others take longer, particularly where injuries are serious or liability is disputed. During your consultation, we can give you a better sense of what to expect based on the specifics of your situation.