Do You Need a Bus Accident Attorney in Fresno?


Experiencing a bus accident can be a traumatic and life-altering event. Despite the licensing and certifications required for bus drivers, negligence still occurs, leading to serious accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Fresno, you may be entitled to compensation. At Grossman Law Offices, our experienced bus accident attorneys in Fresno are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.

Common Injuries in Bus Accidents

Bus accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size of the vehicle and the number of passengers involved. Common injuries include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Lacerations and bruises
  • Internal organ damage
  • Emotional trauma and PTSD

These injuries can lead to significant medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Our bus accident injury lawyers are dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they need for their recovery.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Understanding the common causes of bus accidents can help in determining liability and pursuing a successful bus accident claim. Some of the most frequent causes include:

  • Driver Negligence: Distracted driving, fatigue, or impairment due to alcohol or drugs.
  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Failing brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures due to inadequate maintenance.
  • Reckless Driving: Speeding, aggressive maneuvers, or disregarding traffic laws.
  • Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or other weather-related hazards.
  • Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads or construction zones.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

If you’re involved in a bus accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward can protect your health and legal rights:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent, get a medical evaluation.
  2. Report the Accident: Notify law enforcement and ensure an accident report is filed.
  3. Gather Information: Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved.
  4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
  5. Avoid Making Statements: Do not admit fault or discuss the accident with insurance companies without legal counsel.
  6. Contact a Bus Accident Attorney: Reach out to a qualified bus accident lawyer to discuss your case.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Bus Accident?

Determining who is responsible for a bus accident is crucial for your bus accident compensation. Potentially liable parties include:

  • The Bus Driver: Negligence due to distracted driving, fatigue, or impairment.
  • The Bus Company: Negligent hiring practices, inadequate training, or failure to maintain the bus.
  • Third Parties: Manufacturers of defective bus parts or maintenance vendors.
  • Government Entities: For accidents caused by poor road conditions or improperly designed construction zones.

Can You Sue a Government Entity for a Bus Accident?

Yes, you can file claims against bus companies that are government entities, but the process is more complex. There are stricter deadlines and procedural requirements when suing a government agency. It’s essential to consult with an experienced bus accident attorney in Fresno to ensure all legal protocols are correctly followed.

How to Prove Negligence in a Bus Accident Case

To succeed in a bus accident injury claim, you must prove that the responsible party was negligent. This involves demonstrating four key elements: duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages. First, you need to establish that the defendant owed you a duty to act responsibly. Then, show that they failed to uphold that duty. Next, prove that their breach directly caused your injuries. Finally, illustrate that you suffered losses as a result of the accident.

Supporting evidence is crucial in building your case. This may include the driver’s employment and driving records, which could reveal prior infractions or lack of qualifications. Cell phone records might indicate distracted driving if the driver was using their phone at the time of the accident. Surveillance footage from traffic cameras can provide visual proof of the incident. Maintenance and inspection records of the bus could uncover negligence in vehicle upkeep. The Event Data Recorder (EDR) information can also offer insights into the bus’s speed, braking patterns, and mechanical functions before the crash.

How Bus Accident Cases Work

The process begins with an investigation to gather evidence and establish liability by collecting accident reports, interviewing witnesses, and obtaining any available video footage. Once sufficient evidence is compiled, we file a claim with the insurance company or initiate a lawsuit, preparing legal documents and notifying all necessary parties. Negotiations then commence to reach a fair settlement; if an agreement cannot be achieved, the case proceeds to litigation, where both sides present their arguments, and a judge or jury determines the outcome. The resolution compensates for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages from the accident. 

As an established bus accident law firm, we will guide you through each stage, ensuring your rights are protected so you can receive the compensation you deserve.

When to Hire a Bus Accident Lawyer

It is crucial to consult a bus crash attorney as soon as possible after the accident. Early legal intervention can help preserve crucial evidence and ensure all important deadlines are met. An attorney can evaluate your case thoroughly and explain your legal options, helping you understand the potential outcomes. They will handle all communications with insurance companies, preventing you from making statements that could inadvertently harm your case. 

A lawyer will advocate on your behalf for maximum compensation, using their expertise to negotiate effectively. If your case involves government entities, an attorney can navigate the complexities, ensuring that all legal protocols are correctly followed.

About Grossman Law

At Grossman Law Offices, we specialize in personal injury law—and that includes bus accident cases in Fresno. Our experienced attorneys recognize the significant physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take on victims and their families. Committed to delivering personalized and compassionate legal representation, we meticulously navigate the intricacies of state and federal regulations surrounding bus accidents. Our proven track record of securing favorable outcomes reflects our dedication to fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve. 

Available 24/7, the team at Grossman Law Offices always stands by your side, protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal journey.

Trust Your Case to a Winning Team

Our team of experienced attorneys has extensive expertise in handling bus accident injuries and claims—and a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront fees—you don’t pay unless we win your case. This approach ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. 

From the initial investigation to litigation, we offer comprehensive legal support and stand by you every step of the way. Choosing Grossman Law Offices means entrusting your case to a firm that prioritizes your rights and works tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Grossman Law Offices today for a free consultation and let our experienced bus accident attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve.