Orange County Bus Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Orange County Bus Accident Lawyers Here To Make It Right When You’ve Been Wronged
Buses are essential transportation services for commuting, providing travel options for those without cars. However, traffic accidents will likely happen since Orange County frequently experiences congested roads and busy streets. If you are a bus accident victim, you can seek compensation for your damages. Our Orange County bus accident lawyers are here to help. Call us immediately at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case.
Orange County is one of California’s most visited destinations, as it’s home to Disneyland, “the happiest place on earth.” The county is also famous for surf breaks, particularly in Huntington Beach, regarded by many as “Surf City USA.” Visitors enjoy dining at fine restaurants and shopping at the prestigious South Coast Plaza. These attractions bring many people to Orange County, contributing to significant traffic on major highways during peak hours.
Considering how busy Orange County can get, it’s not surprising that traffic accidents involving buses happen regularly. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a bus accident, a personal injury claim might help cover the costs of your losses. Our Orange County bus accident attorneys will fight relentlessly to recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Are Bus Accidents So Dangerous?
Buses are large motor vehicles crucial for urban mobility. They serve various purposes, including public transportation for long and short-distance travel, carrying groups of tourists around The OC, and others. Although they’re a good means of getting around town, buses present risks that make them potentially deadly on the road.
Here are some of the top reasons bus accidents are so dangerous:
- Size — Buses are massive, dwarfing the average sedan or SUV. Their imposing dimensions mean they carry substantial kinetic energy. When a bus collides with another vehicle or an object, the force of impact is magnified due to its mass.
- Lack Of Seatbelts — Buses often lack seatbelts for passengers. In a sudden stop or collision, passengers are left without the protective restraint that seatbelts provide. The absence of this safety feature significantly increases injury risks.
- Standing Passengers — Many bus passengers stand or move around while riding. Whether it’s a crowded city bus during rush hour or a school bus filled with energetic children, standing passengers are common. During an accident, these standing individuals become vulnerable human projectiles. Their bodies could collide with seats, poles, or other passengers.
- Reduced Driver Visibility — Buses have more blind spots than regular vehicles. Their elongated shape limits a bus driver’s field of vision. Operating errors, such as misjudging distances, failing to spot pedestrians, and misreading traffic signals, can jeopardize the lives of dozens of passengers.
Our client was parked on the side of the road and was struck by the defendant driver traveling at a high rate of speed– ARASH KHORSANDI
How To Find The Best Bus Accident Attorneys
Following a bus accident, getting legal representation will give you a greater chance of obtaining higher compensation for your damages. When searching for the best bus accident lawyers in Orange County, keep the following factors in mind:
Expertise
The best lawyers should be able to demonstrate an exemplary capability to handle complex cases, proving they have a comprehensive grasp of California’s legislation. Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is a powerhouse injury law firm in California with a proven track record of winning bus accident claims for its clients.
Fees And Other Costs
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means their compensation is contingent upon the case outcome. While this arrangement benefits clients, it’s best to ask directly about their portion of compensation and any additional costs they may charge.
Our bus accident attorneys in Orange County offer a free initial consultation and a no-win, no-fee guarantee. There are no hidden fees, so you don’t have to pay us anything until we win.
Connectivity And Availability
Communication with your bus accident attorney is crucial for the case’s success. As a client, you should be able to contact your lawyer at any time, especially when a problem arises. Your lawyer should also keep you updated about your case every step of the way. The more transparent your lawyer is, the less stressful your legal experience will be.
If you need legal consultation, you can reach our accident lawyers by calling our 24/7 helpline. You can also visit one of our offices, conveniently located across California, or we can come to your location — anytime, anywhere. If you hire us, we commit to keeping you informed throughout the legal process. You can expect text and email updates. Call us anytime you have questions or concerns.
Case Management And Resources
A law firm’s resources can significantly affect a case’s outcome. Access to experts, such as accident analysts, investigators, and medical professionals, will help strengthen the evidence in your case. Moreover, the law firm’s effective management of the investigative and administrative steps can help you secure a more favorable outcome.
Arash Law provides one-on-one attorney representation, meaning you’ll have direct access to legal experts. We will work with our network of specialists to build a stronger case for you and ensure you’ll receive maximum compensation.
Hire the bus accident attorneys Orange County trusts. We’ve recovered $500 Million in compensation for our injured clients. We can help you, too! Call us today at (888) 488-1391 to consult with one of our lawyers for free.
Why Hire Our Orange County Bus Accident Lawyers For Your Case?
By hiring our Orange County lawyers for bus accident cases, you can leave the complexities of the claim process to us and focus more on your recovery. We will support you through every step and help you make informed decisions about your claim. Our legal team will also take care of the following:
- Case Evaluation — Good Orange County bus accident lawyers will thoroughly evaluate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and consult experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Identifying Liable Parties — Bus accidents often involve multiple parties. Our team excels at identifying all potentially liable parties, including the bus driver, bus operator, maintenance provider, and even the parts manufacturer.
- Navigating Complex Regulations — Bus companies are governed by a complex set of regulations. We can help you understand these rules and how they affect your case.
- Maximizing Compensation — We aim to ensure you receive fair compensation for all your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and non-economic damages. We meticulously quantify your losses, including your pain and suffering, to secure adequate compensation.
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies — Achieving a fair settlement requires expertise to counter insurers’ tactics of minimizing payouts. We know how to negotiate effectively and will not accept any lowball offers.
- Litigation Support — Our litigation attorneys are prepared to take your case to court if we cannot reach a settlement. We will represent you throughout the legal process, advocating for the best possible outcome.
Not sure if you have a case? Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form, and we’ll determine if you have a viable claim.
Types Of Buses Commonly Involved In Accidents
Buses serve as essential modes of transportation, but their large size can increase the risk of accidents on the road. When accidents occur, they can be devastating and even fatal. Our Orange County attorneys have extensive experience handling accident cases involving the following types of buses:
- Public Transportation Bus — These buses are a valuable resource for daily transportation in Orange County. However, they are often involved in accidents due to their frequent stops and routes in high-traffic areas.
- School Bus — School bus drivers are responsible for safely transporting children. School bus accidents can be particularly dangerous, especially if the young passengers are not wearing seatbelts.
- Private-Hire Shuttles — These buses include single-decker, double-decker, articulated buses, minibusses, coaches, trolleybuses, and hybrid buses. Responsibility for operating these vehicles can fall on the driver provided by the service or the individual who rents the bus. Accidents involving private-hire shuttles can result in significant damage due to their varying sizes and capacities.
- Tour Bus — Tour buses are used for tourism and trips to entertainment venues such as resorts and casinos. They are often involved in accidents due to long-distance travel, potential driver fatigue, and other driver errors.
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is in charge of running the region’s public transportation. Their services include community routes, Metrolink routes, and city shuttles. On the other hand, school buses are typically run by individual school districts, with some being subcontracted to independent operators.
The type of bus involved in the accident will impact the ensuing legal process. Our Orange County personal injury attorney can assist you with your claim. Call our 24-hour helpline at (888) 488-1391 for a free consultation.
Hurt in a Bus Accident?
Common Causes Of Bus Accidents In Orange County
Understanding the common reasons behind bus accidents is crucial for improving safety measures and preventing future incidents. Various factors contribute to bus accidents, ranging from driver-related issues to mechanical failures. Here are some of the most prevalent causes:
- Reckless Driving — Sometimes, a bus driver does not pay attention when merging lanes or pulling into an intersection. They may also disregard traffic signals and safety rules. The consequences of these reckless actions can be deadly.
- Distracted Driving — Accidents occur when bus drivers aren’t fully focused on the road. Examples of distracted driving are operating a bus while eating, drinking, or using a phone.
- Driver Fatigue — Bus drivers are often required to work long shifts with frequent stops, which can cause them to become fatigued and lose focus.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance — Buses that are not properly maintained may suffer a blowout, brake failure, and more.
- Vehicle Defects — Defects in the manufacturing process, such as structural, mechanical, and safety failures, can lead to serious accidents and injuries.
- Inexperienced Drivers — Bus drivers need special training to drive large vehicles safely. An untrained driver can cause an accident.
- Driving Under The Influence — Under California law, bus drivers are prohibited from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The blood alcohol limit for passenger vehicle drivers is 0.08%.
Arash Law is a personal injury law firm that works for injured plaintiffs. We will help you determine the cause of the accident and hold the responsible parties accountable for your losses. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our acclaimed Orange County bus accident lawyers.
What Are The Types Of Bus Accidents In Orange County?
Here are the common types of bus accidents our Orange County lawyers encounter:
- Single-Vehicle Accidents — These are accidents in which a bus is the only vehicle involved. A bus may strike a stationary object like a sign, traffic pole, or tree. Poor visibility, distracted driving, or mechanical failures can lead to this type of accident.
- Head-On Collisions — If a bus and another vehicle hurtle toward each other from opposite directions and collide headfirst, the resulting crash is often violent and potentially fatal due to the combined force and energy of two vehicles.
- Rear-End Collisions — This type of accident occurs at slow speeds when a forward-moving vehicle crashes into the back of a bus or vice versa. Common causes include tailgating, sudden braking, and reduced traction from wet or worn pavements.
- Side-Impact Collisions — Also known as T-bone or broadside crashes, this type of collision occurs when one vehicle strikes another from the side.
- Bus Stop Collisions — A bus stop located in a dangerous zone increases the likelihood of accidents. Bus stops near busy intersections, blind curves, high-speed roads, railroad crossings, construction sites, or industrial areas expose passengers to passing vehicles and risky environments.
- Lurching — This type of accident occurs when the bus driver operates the vehicle in a way that throws passengers off their seats. As a result, passengers may collide with the interior of the bus, potentially leading to injuries.
- Slip And Fall — Passengers can sustain injuries in slip-and-fall accidents if the bus interior has dangerous conditions, such as a slippery floor or tripping hazards.
- Entering Or Exiting — If the bus keeps moving while passengers embark or disembark, they may get hurt due to the driver’s negligence.
Possible Injuries And Damages In A Bus Accident
Bus accidents can cause life-changing injuries to both passengers and other road users, the most common of which include the following:
- Bruises And Abrasions — Passengers can sustain bruises and abrasions when thrown against hard surfaces or sharp objects during a collision.
- Cuts And Lacerations — The windows, poles, and benches can cause deep cuts and lacerations, leading to blood loss, tissue damage, infection, and even permanent scarring and deformation.
- Sprains And Strains — These are soft tissue injuries sustained from sudden twists or falls.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries — An impact to the head can cause a concussion and other traumatic brain injuries, potentially leading to permanent disabilities.
- Whiplash — Sudden back-and-forth movement of the neck in a bus accident due to a head-on, side, or rear-end collision can cause whiplash.
- Spinal Injuries — The spine can twist in unexpected ways due to sudden momentum shifts. In cases of complete spinal cord damage, the victim may require in-home medical care indefinitely.
- Bone Fractures — Some fractures require multiple surgeries to fix. Victims may need months or years of recovery before regaining strength and function.
- Crush Injuries — A crush injury occurs when a heavy force compresses a body part, resulting in compromised blood circulation and immobility. Severe crush injuries may need amputation for the victim to survive.
- Internal Organ Injuries — When internal organs sustain severe damage from impacts, victims may experience long-term complications.
- Burns — Most people recover from burn injuries without serious health effects. However, medical attention is required for more serious burns to prevent complications.
Our Orange County bus accident attorneys can find you the best doctor for your injuries. We also represent families in wrongful death claims following fatal bus collisions. Consult with us today for immediate legal assistance.
Who Is At Fault In A Bus Accident?
Determining who is at fault is crucial after being injured in a bus accident. If the accident resulted from negligence, legal action can be pursued against the responsible party.
Our Orange County bus accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify the potentially liable parties, which often include:
- Bus Company — The bus company frequently shares responsibility for accidents involving its vehicles. It is imperative for bus companies to provide adequate training for their drivers and ensure the proper functioning of their fleet.
- Bus Driver — A bus driver can be held personally accountable if their actions or negligence directly cause an accident.
- School District — The school district must maintain and operate its buses safely. Failure to fulfill this duty can result in liability if an accident occurs.
- Maintenance Company — Companies subcontracted to maintain the buses can be held responsible if poor maintenance or subpar repairs contribute to an accident.
- Bus Manufacturer — If a design or manufacturing defect in the bus leads to an accident, the manufacturer can be held liable for the resulting damages.
- Another Driver — If the accident is caused by another driver’s reckless or negligent behavior, that individual can be held responsible for it.
- City Authorities — Government agencies may be liable if the accident is caused by poorly maintained roads, such as dangerous potholes or inadequate signage.
How To Prove Negligence For A Personal Injury Claim
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you must prove negligence to succeed in your claim. Negligence occurs when someone’s actions harm another person, leading to liability. Victims of negligence are entitled to compensation for damages. To justify your claim for personal injury after a bus accident, your bus accident lawyer must prove the following elements:
- Duty Of Care — All drivers are obligated to exercise care towards other road users, including pedestrians, drivers, and passengers.
- Breach Of Duty — You have to show that the bus driver (or other liable party) acted negligently, resulting in a breach of their duty of care.
- Causation — This element involves proving that the bus driver’s breach of duty directly caused your accident.
- Damages — You must show that you suffered damages as a result of the bus driver’s breach of duty.
California Civil Code Section 2100 stipulates that bus drivers have a greater duty to their passengers than regular vehicle drivers. If proving negligence is too tricky or challenging, our bus accident lawyers in Orange County can handle this and more. Entrust the whole legal process to us, and we’ll help you recover all your expenses and other related damages.
Damages And Compensation After A Bus Accident In Orange County
You might collect a few thousand dollars after you file a claim for minor injuries in a bus accident. However, severe injuries, such as paralysis or burns, may lead to hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars in compensation.
California law allows three types of damages: economic, non-economic, and punitive. Our Orange County bus accident attorneys can help you determine which types of damages you may be entitled to.
Economic damages refer to the direct costs incurred by an injured party as a result of an accident, such as:
- Medications
- Ambulance charges
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Lost wages
- Lost salary
- Lost benefits
- Opportunity cost
- Business impacts
- Business closure
Non-economic damages pertain to the intangible effects of the accident on the victim. These can be in the form of:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Inconvenience
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Courts rarely award punitive damages. However, if you were hit by a bus driven by a drunk driver or someone who acted with gross negligence, the court may award punitive damages. Our Orange County bus accident lawyers can calculate your damages so you can set realistic expectations about how much your claim is worth.
Bus Accidents Often Result In Serious Injuries And Wrongful Death
Bus accidents are often more devastating than car accidents. When a bus collides with another vehicle or object, the force of the impact is greater. Furthermore, passengers on buses are rarely restrained by seat belts. This lack of restraint can cause passengers to be thrown around the bus. Buses also often carry many passengers. In a collision, multiple people can be affected simultaneously, increasing the likelihood of injuries or fatalities.
“Wrongful death” occurs when someone dies in a bus accident because of the negligence of the driver, the bus company, or a public entity (such as OCTA or the Metro). If a family member has died due to the negligence of another, the surviving members may be entitled to compensation for their losses, especially if they lost a spouse, a parent, or a child.
Although no amount of money can replace the loss of a loved one, a wrongful death claim primarily aims to hold the liable parties financially accountable for the loss of life. If you’ve lost a loved one in a bus accident, reach out to our Orange County lawyers. We can handle the legal legwork on your behalf.
What To Do After A Bus Accident In Orange County
If you are injured in a bus accident in Orange County, our attorneys recommend that you take these steps to ensure your safety and establish your right to fair compensation.
- Report The Accident — Call 911. Do not rely on the bus driver or bus company to make the report. Ensure you obtain a copy of the accident report for your records.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention — Even if you don’t have visible injuries, go to the nearest hospital or emergency room to be checked. Shocks from the accident could mask pain or symptoms that may worsen without treatment.
- Gather Contact Information — Get the involved parties’ phone numbers and email addresses. Also, ask the bus driver for their name and bus number. Remember to keep your bus ticket as well.
- Avoid Discussing The Accident — Refrain from speaking about the incident, especially with the bus driver. Statements made can be used against you later. Be cautious about social media posts, too.
- Collect Evidence — Use your cellphone to take photos and videos of the bus, other vehicles involved, damage, injuries, and the bus interior. Any relevant details can strengthen your case.
- Avoid Hasty Settlements — Insurance companies may offer low settlements early on to minimize costs. This strategy saves them a significant amount of money. However, accepting this offer prevents you from claiming further compensation, even if you incur accident-related expenses later on.
Contact experienced Orange County bus accident attorneys to guide you through the claims process. Our helpline at (888) 488-1391 is available 24/7.
Personal Injury: An attack that took place when a homeless man used an unsecured baseball bat in the Walmart store to attack a husband and wife who were shopping nearby. The jury found that Walmart was 50 percent liable for the attack, and the amount of the judgment against the company exceeded $30,000,000– BRIAN BEECHER
Statute Of Limitations For Bus Accidents
In general, the statute of limitations in California for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a bus accident is two years from the accident date; however, if the bus operator is a public entity, California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1 states that you must file a case within six months.
Other case-specific circumstances can affect the statute of limitations. For example, the involvement of government entities or minors may cause exceptions or different time limits. Considering this, consulting a personal injury attorney is critical when filing a case. Your lawyer can provide specific guidance based on your case and help you meet the deadlines.
If you file a claim or lawsuit after the statute of limitations has passed, the court may dismiss your case, and you might lose your ability to pursue damages for your injuries. Therefore, hiring an Orange County lawyer as soon as possible is crucial if you wish to pursue a legal claim for a bus accident.
Bus Accident Statistics In California
More than 990,000 buses are already operating across the US, almost 100,000 of which are in California. Each year, thousands are injured or killed in bus accidents. The following statistics prove how common bus accidents are in the United States:
- Every year, more than 63,000 bus accidents occur.
- According to the National Safety Council, 104 people were killed in school bus accidents in 2022.
- Around 71% of people who are killed in bus accidents are occupants of other vehicles.
These figures show how devastating bus accidents can be. Our Orange County lawyers are dedicated to helping victims of bus accidents recover from their losses and obtain justice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Should I Do If An Insurance Company Calls Me?
If it was your insurance provider who called you, provide only the basic facts of the accident. You’ll need good Orange County bus accident lawyers to discuss the details with them. If it was the opposing party’s insurance company, refuse to sign any document or make a recorded statement. Instead, refer them to your lawyer.
What If The Accident Was Partly My Fault?
California follows the pure comparative negligence principle. The law allows you to claim damages even if you are 99% at fault. However, the damages you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. If you are found 20% at fault, you can receive up to 80% of your damages.
Our Orange County bus accident lawyers can help you determine your percentage of fault, if any. We won’t let the liable parties shift blame unfairly. Our team will ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to, even if you may be partially responsible.
How Long Will It Take To Resolve My Case?
Generally, simple cases can be settled a few weeks after the bus accident, while complicated ones may take a year or more. The answer to this question depends on many factors, such as:
- The complexity of your injury
- Whether you have other medical issues that contribute to your injuries but are not related to the accident
- If your claim involves future expenses (such as medical expenses or decreased earning potential) that must be estimated
- If there is a liability dispute with the insurance company
As soon as our bus accident attorneys in Orange County review your medical records and begin negotiations with the insurance company, we can give you a better idea of how long your case is likely to take.
Can I File A Claim After A Bus Accident Even If I’m An Undocumented Immigrant In California?
Immigration law allows undocumented immigrants to file lawsuits for wrongful death and personal injury. If you have been injured in a bus accident, you can still sue for compensation, regardless of your immigration status.
Our Orange County lawyers can provide expert legal assistance and support after a bus accident. Talk to us now and schedule a free case review.
Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer For A Bus Accident Claim?
If you have sustained any injuries in a bus accident, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a personal injury lawyer. Bus owners and operators typically have legal departments and litigators on retainer who are experienced in handling bus accident cases and have strategies in place for their defense.
The personal injury lawyers at Arash Law can provide the legal representation you need to counter the bus company’s or municipality’s attempts to minimize your claim. Your Orange County bus accident attorney will investigate your case, build a compelling claim, and persuade the defense they are facing an uphill battle.
In most cases, once your lawyer has built a solid case, the other side becomes motivated to settle. Nevertheless, your bus accident lawyer can take the case to trial if they fail to reach the maximum compensation you are owed.
How Much Does A Bus Accident Attorney Cost?
Our Orange County bus accident lawyers at Arash Law work on a contingency fee. This means you don’t have to pay until we’ve recovered your damages.
We understand that many victims struggle financially due to the repercussions of the accident. Under this arrangement, you don’t have to pay any fees or expenses out of your pocket. With our no-win, no-fee guarantee, you don’t have to worry about draining your savings or going into debt just to pursue your claim.
Call The Bus Accident Lawyers Orange County Trusts Today!
As Orange County’s industry-recognized and aggressive bus accident attorneys, we represent injured victims who have suffered due to other people’s negligence. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver involved in the accident, we will fight aggressively for your rights and interests.
We will help you get your medical bills paid, your lost wages reimbursed, and your vehicle repaired or replaced. Our team can also get you access to the top medical specialists in the state. If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.
Arash Law also handles claims for accidents involving cars, DUIs, Uber, Lyft, trucks and semi-trucks, slips and falls, pedestrians, mesothelioma, hit-and-runs, and bikes. Call (888) 488-1391 to learn about your legal options.
Our law firm also serves neighboring areas, such as Burbank, Pasadena, Los Angeles, Torrance, Inglewood, Long Beach, Compton, Pomona, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Chino, San Bernardino, Redlands, Colton, Moreno Valley, Perris, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Murrieta, and Temecula.
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