Bus Accident Lawyer
Torrance, CA
WHAT IS MY CASE WORTH?
"*" indicates required fields
Professional Legal Support from an Experienced Bus Accident Attorney in Torrance, CA
When using public transportation or sending your child to school by bus, you rely on the bus driver, company, school officials, and other authorities to ensure safety. However, bus accidents still happen frequently in Torrance, CA, and the greater Los Angeles area, often leaving devastating effects on victims and their families. The consequences of a bus crash can be far-reaching—physically, emotionally, and financially. Laws exist to protect you and hold at-fault parties accountable, but navigating the legal process, especially when dealing with a government entity, can be complex and challenging.
Having knowledgeable legal representation is crucial in pursuing compensation for your injuries. Our dedicated team in Torrance, CA has bus accident attorneys, led by Vince Xu, and is here to provide the expertise you need. We have successfully helped many victims of bus crashes recover from life-changing injuries, and we are committed to maximizing the compensation you deserve. By allowing us to handle your legal battles, you can focus on your recovery with peace of mind.
Possible Liable Parties in Bus Accident Claims
Negligence plays a major role in most bus accidents. To seek compensation, you must demonstrate that a legal duty was breached, leading to the accident and your resulting injuries. Determining fault can be complicated, as multiple parties may share responsibility for the breach, including:
- The Bus Driver: Drivers are required to follow traffic laws and specific regulations that apply to them in California, Los Angeles County, and local jurisdictions. A driver may be held liable for failing to comply with these laws or engaging in negligent behavior.
- The Bus Company as Employer & Other Related Entities: If a bus driver causes an accident while on duty, their employer may be held liable for damages. Compensation may also be sought from companies, such as tour or cruise operators, that provide transportation services.
- The Bus Company as a Common Carrier: In California, common carriers that transport people for payment are held to the highest standard of care. Employers may be liable for failing to hire qualified drivers, inadequate training, or poor maintenance. Additionally, companies could be at fault if they fail to enforce proper safety protocols.
- Manufacturers: Accidents caused by defective parts or bus components may lead to product liability claims against the manufacturer for faulty design, production, or assembly that put passengers at risk.
- Maintenance Providers: Companies contracted to maintain buses could be liable if they fail to properly service the vehicles, leading to unsafe conditions on the road.
- Other Motorists: Like car accidents, other drivers may be held accountable for negligent behavior contributing to a bus collision. In such cases, courts consider comparative fault to assign responsibility for damages.
Torrance, California Bus Accident Lawyer
Vince Xu is a seasoned personal injury attorney and is dedicated to securing justice and compensation for clients affected by negligence. We provide compassionate, personalized attention throughout the legal process. Contact us today for top-tier legal representation.
Challenges in Public Transportation Injury Claims
Many residents in Torrance, CA, and the Los Angeles area rely on public buses, implicating the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority (LACMTA) as a potential liable party. School districts and boards, as employers of bus drivers, may also be involved. If a bus accident victim seeks compensation from government entities, special legal procedures apply.
Under the California Tort Claims Act, strict protocols must be followed when filing claims against government bodies like the LACMTA. For instance:
- Claims must be filed with the relevant agency within six months of the accident date.
- The claim must include contact details and identify all government agencies involved.
- It should also provide the date, location, and details of the accident, as well as evidence of negligence by the government entity involved.
Failure to follow these rules could result in the denial of your claim. However, if your administrative claim is rejected, you may still pursue a lawsuit in court. Keep in mind, though, that under the California Tort Claims Act, you must file a lawsuit within one year of your claim’s denial.
Other California Laws Affecting Bus Accident Cases
Several other state laws could impact your case:
- Statute of Limitations in California: For claims against private, non-governmental entities, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the right to recover damages. There are few exceptions, so it’s important to act quickly.
- Comparative Negligence: California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
Speak with a Skilled Torrance, CA Bus Accident Attorney
Attorney Vince Xu and our experienced legal team have a proven track record of helping victims recover damages after bus accidents. We have achieved substantial settlements and awards for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Given the time-sensitive nature of these claims, especially when government entities are involved, we encourage you to act quickly.
To schedule a free consultation with a bus accident lawyer serving Torrance, CA, and Los Angeles, call us at 310-848-5054 or visit our website for more information about the critical role an attorney can play in personal injury cases.
Se Habla Español | 我说普通话
Free Consultation
"*" indicates required fields