Bus Accident Attorney in Glendale

Your Trusted Legal Support for Bus Accidents in Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles area is a densely populated, high-traffic urban region where various buses provide public and private transportation for Angelenos and visitors. These buses can include city transit buses, school buses, private charter buses, tour buses, intercity buses, and shuttle buses. Passengers can include individuals of all ages, from schoolchildren to tourists and local workers to senior citizens. 

Like other motor vehicles, buses can be involved in traffic accidents, causing injuries from minor to catastrophic to passengers. At Hartounian, APLC, our competent and thorough legal team can put knowledge, experience, and extensive resources to work for you if you have been injured in any bus accident. With in-depth understanding and a client-focused approach, we strive to navigate the complexities of each case to bring you the justice you deserve. 

We provide dedicated legal and personal support throughout the injury claims process to help you seek full and fair compensation for your damages and losses. Our team understands the profound impact an accident can have on your life, and we are committed to standing by you every step of the way. 

Injured in a Bus Accident? Don't wait to seek the justice you deserve. Contact us today at (818) 463-1917 for a free consultation.

Understanding Bus Accidents: Key Information for Los Angeles Residents 

Why do bus accidents often result in more severe injuries than car accidents?
Bus accidents can be more dangerous due to the size and weight of buses compared to personal vehicles. This increased mass can lead to more forceful impacts. Additionally, many buses lack seatbelts and other safety features, increasing the risk of injury in a collision. It is crucial for passengers to understand these risks and bus operators to implement enhanced safety measures.

What types of injuries are common in bus accidents?
Victims of bus accidents can suffer from a range of injuries, including:

• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
• Broken or fractured bones
• Neck injuries
• Severe whiplash
• Concussions
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord damage
• Emotional and psychological trauma

Why are bus accident claims more complex than car accident claims?
Bus accident claims are complex because they often involve multiple parties and jurisdictions. Buses operate under both state and federal regulations, making it more difficult to establish liability. Furthermore, determining fault may involve the bus driver, bus company, manufacturers, or even government entities. Having a clear understanding of the legal landscape can help victims navigate these challenges effectively.

Who could be held liable in a bus accident?
Several parties may be liable in a bus accident, including:

• The bus driver
• The bus company
• Manufacturers of defective parts
• Other drivers involved
• Government entities responsible for road maintenance or bus oversight

What types of compensation can bus accident victims pursue?
Bus accident victims can pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Long-term care costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Should I seek legal representation after a bus accident?
Yes, due to the complexity of bus accident cases and the potential for severe injuries and damages, it is critical to seek legal representation to ensure you receive fair compensation. Experienced attorneys can provide invaluable guidance, negotiate with insurance companies, and help avoid potential pitfalls in the claims process.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Bus Accident

If you’ve been involved in a bus accident, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. 

Here are the key actions you should take:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately obvious but could have serious long-term effects.
• Report the Accident to Authorities: Call 911 to report the accident. This will ensure that a police report is filed, which is crucial for your case. The police can also assess the situation and document key details at the scene.
• Gather Witness Information: Speak with anyone who witnessed the accident and collect their contact details. Witness testimonies can be vital when determining fault in the accident.
• Take Photos of the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to the bus, any other vehicles involved, road conditions, and your injuries. These visual records can provide strong evidence for your claim.
• Avoid Making Statements to Insurance Adjusters: Do not give detailed statements to insurance adjusters before consulting with a lawyer. They may try to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. It's best to speak with an attorney before communicating with the insurance company.

By taking these actions, you can help ensure your safety and strengthen your case if you decide to pursue legal action. Additionally, keeping a detailed file of medical records, expenses, and correspondence is beneficial for the claims process.

The Role of Insurance Companies in Glendale Bus Accident Claims

Insurance companies play a major role in bus accident claims, and understanding how they work is crucial to protecting your interests:

• Evaluating Claims: Insurance companies will assess the severity of the accident and your injuries. They will consider factors such as medical reports, witness statements, and the police report when determining compensation.
• Evidence Needed: You may need to provide evidence such as medical bills, lost wages, photographs of the accident scene, and any documentation that proves the extent of your injuries and damages.
• Challenges with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or assign partial blame to reduce their liability. They may offer quick settlements, but these are often much lower than what you are entitled to. It’s crucial to consult an attorney who can protect your rights and negotiate on your behalf.
• Types of Insurance Coverage: Bus accidents can involve several types of insurance, including the bus company’s commercial insurance, government insurance (for public buses), and the other driver’s insurance if they are involved in the accident. Each of these insurance policies has different rules and limits, so it’s essential to understand which policies apply to your case.

Having a seasoned legal team on your side can greatly enhance the process of dealing with insurance companies, helping you avoid common pitfalls and secure a fair outcome. By navigating through the complexities of insurance policies and negotiations, attorneys can significantly influence the positive trajectory of your claim.

The Importance of Investigating Bus Accident Causes

A thorough investigation is vital to understanding the cause of a bus accident and establishing liability. Key aspects of an investigation include:

• Driver’s History: Investigating the bus driver’s driving record, past accidents, or any history of violations is crucial. If the driver has a history of unsafe driving, it may help prove negligence.
• Condition of the Bus: Mechanical failures or poor maintenance can lead to accidents. Investigators should check the bus’s maintenance records to see if there were any mechanical issues or safety violations prior to the accident.
• Road Conditions & Weather Factors: Poor road conditions or weather-related factors like rain or fog can contribute to accidents. Investigators will examine how these factors may have played a role in the crash.
• Determining Fault: A thorough investigation helps establish who is at fault for the accident, which could involve the bus driver, the bus company, other drivers, or even local government entities. Identifying the responsible parties is essential to securing fair compensation.

By conducting a comprehensive investigation, attorneys can uncover critical evidence that supports your case and ensures that those responsible for the accident are held accountable. Our legal team works with expert investigators and utilizes advanced tools to analyze every detail thoroughly.

Common Bus Accident Causes in Glendale, CA

Bus accidents in Glendale, CA, can occur due to a myriad of reasons that vary from operational challenges to environmental conditions. A common factor is the congestion typical of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, which increases the likelihood of accidents due to limited visibility and sudden stops. Bus drivers in Glendale must navigate through high-traffic zones and adhere to schedules that may lead to risky driving behaviors such as speeding or cutting lanes abruptly.

Another significant aspect is the advanced aging infrastructure in certain parts of the city, which can contribute to mechanical failures if buses aren't routinely maintained. Furthermore, the local climate, which frequently includes clear but occasionally unpredictable weather patterns, poses unique challenges for bus operation. Proper training in handling the vast network of city streets, coupled with regular mechanical inspections, can mitigate many of these risks.

Bus Accident Liability Under California Law

Understanding liability in bus accidents in California, including Glendale, involves grasping the intricacies of state laws that govern commercial vehicle operation. Bus operators must comply with both state and federal safety standards, including driver qualifications and vehicle maintenance. When accidents occur due to driver negligence or poor vehicle maintenance, liability may be established against the bus company or other involved parties.

California's legal framework allows for multiple parties to be held accountable in a bus accident. This means claims can be directed at the bus driver, the company, maintenance providers, or even local government agencies if road conditions contributed to the accident. Navigating these facets requires a nuanced approach to legal proceedings, often involving comprehensive investigations and coordination with regulatory bodies. Legal representation is vital in these scenarios to effectively establish fault and pursue rightful compensation.

Need Legal Help After a Bus Accident?
Our Glendale attorneys are ready to assist you. Call (818) 463-1917 or contact us online to get started.