Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Learn your next steps here and get the maximum compensation with our step-by-step walkthrough
Your well-being should be your top priority
Call 911 immediately and contact the local police or the California Highway Patrol (CHP)
Ensure to collect at least the driver’s name, address, and date of birth alongside their license number and state
If you are not too injured, take good pictures of the scene and some videos if you can
Carefully label and safe-keep any proof you’ve gathered to help your case
Reach out to your agent and/or your insurance company immediately
Contact your lawyer as soon as possible
Every case is unique, so it’s important to consult with a legal professional who can provide specific guidance based on your situation. They can guide you through the legal process, help protect your rights, and pursue any potential compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Long Beach relies heavily on its public bus system to move thousands of commuters, students, and visitors throughout the city every day. However, accidents involving buses remain a serious safety issue across the area. These crashes can lead to significant injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship for passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers. Whether caused by traffic congestion, operator error, mechanical failure, or poorly designed bus stops, collisions involving buses in Long Beach often result in long-lasting or even permanent effects.
The aftermath of a bus accident in Long Beach can be overwhelming—especially for victims dealing with surgery, long-term rehabilitation, or ongoing medical treatment. You may be entitled to seek compensation for emergency care, lost income, and emotional distress. Partnering with a knowledgeable Long Beach bus accident attorney can make all the difference in proving fault and obtaining the financial recovery needed to move forward.
This guide explains the typical injuries seen in bus crashes, what types of compensation may be available to victims, and the legal steps to take following a bus accident in Long Beach. Understanding your rights under California law can empower you to make the best choices for your health, finances, and long-term well-being.
At RMD Law, we know just how devastating a bus crash can be for individuals and their families. Our experienced legal team has successfully handled transit-related injury claims throughout Long Beach, including those involving Long Beach Transit (LBT), school buses, and private carriers. We offer compassionate, one-on-one legal guidance and are committed to helping our clients receive the full compensation they deserve. Regardless of which bus service was involved, we’re here to stand by your side from the very beginning through resolution.
Claims involving public transit services like Long Beach Transit come with unique legal hurdles, especially since they involve government-run agencies. These types of cases require following specific procedures, including submitting a government claim within a strict deadline. At RMD Law, we are deeply familiar with the complexities of holding Long Beach’s public transportation providers accountable for negligence, improper maintenance, or dangerous operations.
Whether you were injured as a bus rider, pedestrian, cyclist, or motorist, our team will launch a full investigation—examining vehicle maintenance records, analyzing surveillance footage, and consulting with experts to support your claim. We understand how deeply a bus crash can affect your life physically, emotionally, and financially, and we fight aggressively to secure compensation for your medical bills, missed wages, and future care needs.
We’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process. When you work with RMD Law, you gain a skilled legal team with the experience and tenacity to take on Long Beach’s transit agencies and pursue the justice and results you deserve.
Bus-related collisions are a significant and ongoing hazard on Long Beach’s increasingly busy and congested roads.
In Long Beach, buses are classified as “common carriers” under California law. This designation means that operators owe their passengers the highest duty of care. Both public and private bus services are legally required to take every reasonable measure to protect passengers from harm. When drivers, transit agencies, or operators—whether in Downtown Long Beach, Belmont Shore, or surrounding neighborhoods—fail to uphold this standard due to negligence, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or lack of proper driver training, they may be held legally responsible. This principle plays a central role in many Long Beach bus accident cases and is critical when seeking compensation for injuries.
At RMD Law, we represent clients hurt in a wide range of bus-related incidents throughout Long Beach and Los Angeles County. Whether the accident involved a local bus or an out-of-town shuttle, we have the knowledge to manage the specific challenges these cases bring:
Accidents involving Long Beach Transit (LBT) buses can result in serious injuries due to the size of the vehicles and the number of passengers on board. These collisions may occur during routine city routes, often in high-traffic areas like Downtown Long Beach or Pacific Coast Highway. LBT, as a public entity, is held to a high standard of care and can be liable for crashes caused by driver negligence, poor vehicle maintenance, or operational failures. Filing a claim against LBT involves following California’s strict procedures for government liability cases, including meeting tight filing deadlines.
The Passport and AquaLink services are part of Long Beach’s local transportation network designed for both residents and tourists, especially in popular waterfront and downtown areas. Although these services are convenient, accidents involving their vehicles—whether on land or water—can cause injuries to passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists. These incidents may be caused by operator distraction, faulty docking procedures, or poor maintenance. Pursuing a claim may require investigating multiple agencies or service providers depending on how and where the accident occurred.
LA Metro buses frequently operate in Long Beach, especially along major corridors connecting the city to neighboring areas like Carson, Compton, and downtown Los Angeles. When a Metro bus is involved in a crash within Long Beach, determining jurisdiction and liability can be more complex, as the responsible transit agency is based outside the city. These cases often involve long shifts, driver fatigue, or coordination issues between multiple transit systems. Victims may need to file claims against the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which follows similar strict guidelines as other public agencies.
Crashes involving school buses or private shuttle vans—such as those used by hotels, events, or senior care facilities—can be especially traumatic, particularly when children or elderly passengers are involved. These accidents may stem from improperly trained drivers, rushed schedules, mechanical failures, or failure to follow traffic laws. Depending on the operator, liability could fall on a public school district, private company, or even a contracted third-party transportation provider. A thorough legal investigation is often needed to determine if negligence in hiring, supervision, or vehicle maintenance played a role.
Determining what caused the accident is essential for proving liability and recovering damages. Below are frequent causes of bus collisions in the Long Beach area:
Operators must stay alert while driving through Long Beach’s dense traffic. Distractions like texting, eating, or interacting with passengers can quickly lead to serious crashes. Even a brief lapse in attention can result in injury.
Bus drivers often face extended hours, especially on routes with high commuter volume. Fatigue impacts reflexes and decision-making. If transit employers fail to enforce rest policies, they may be held liable for accidents caused by exhausted drivers.
Operating a bus safely requires comprehensive training. Companies that skip essential training sessions or hire unqualified drivers increase the risk to passengers and others on the road.
Brake problems, steering issues, or faulty doors are all serious safety hazards. When transit companies neglect regular maintenance, they may be held accountable for preventable accidents.
Cracked pavement, missing signage, or dim lighting—especially in residential or industrial zones—can contribute to crashes. In such cases, local or state agencies might also share responsibility for failing to maintain safe roadways.
Drivers who weave through traffic, block bus lanes, or cut off buses can cause major collisions. Identifying all responsible parties may involve expert accident reconstruction and thorough evidence review.
Several parties may be found responsible in the aftermath of a bus accident in Long Beach. A detailed investigation is key to identifying fault and maximizing compensation:
Operators may be held accountable if their careless actions—such as running red lights, texting while driving, or failing to yield—caused the crash. This applies to drivers of LBT buses, school buses, and privately owned shuttles.
Public transit systems and private bus companies have a duty to ensure that their employees are properly trained and that their vehicles are safe. Failing to meet these standards may constitute negligence.
If poor road design, malfunctioning traffic lights, or a dangerous intersection contributed to the accident, a city or county agency may be partially liable. However, claims against government bodies must comply with strict legal procedures.
If a bus part—like the brakes or steering system—was defective, the manufacturer or maintenance contractor may share liability. These cases often rely on technical inspections and expert analysis.
If your accident involved Long Beach Transit or another publicly operated service, you must follow California’s special procedures for filing claims against government entities.
Under the California Government Claims Act, you must file a government claim within six months of the incident. Missing this deadline may bar you from receiving any compensation.
Claims must clearly outline the time, location, nature of injuries, and the damages being requested. Vague or incomplete forms can delay or harm your case. Strong supporting evidence—including medical records and photos—can strengthen your claim.
Once filed, the public agency has 45 days to reply. If your claim is rejected or unanswered, you may then proceed with a formal lawsuit. Managing each deadline carefully is critical to protecting your rights.
Bringing a claim against a public agency like LBT can be complex. A knowledgeable Long Beach bus accident lawyer can handle the legal steps, communicate with transit authorities or insurers, and ensure deadlines are met. Many of these cases also involve outside parties—like private contractors or reckless drivers—making legal experience especially valuable.
Due to their large size, ability to carry dozens of passengers, and the lack of common safety features like seatbelts, bus collisions in Long Beach can lead to a range of serious injuries. These injuries don’t just affect riders—pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists are also at risk, especially in high-traffic areas like Downtown Long Beach, near CSULB, or around major corridors like Pacific Coast Highway.
Sudden stops or impacts can jolt passengers forward or sideways, leading to neck strain, soft tissue injuries, or whiplash. This is especially common among standing passengers or those riding on Long Beach Transit or LA Metro buses. Because these injuries may not show up immediately, it’s important to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible—for both your health and any future legal case.
In a bus crash, passengers may hit seatbacks, windows, or handrails, resulting in concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even seemingly minor head injuries can impact cognitive function, memory, or emotional stability. Depending on the injury’s severity, ongoing neurological care might be necessary.
Back and spinal injuries can be devastating. Victims may suffer herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or, in serious cases, permanent paralysis. These injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term support—and can change a person’s daily life forever.
Crashes involving high speed or rollovers can result in broken limbs, cracked ribs, or shattered hips. Glass and torn metal may also cause severe cuts or puncture wounds. Many of these injuries require surgical intervention and lengthy recovery times, sometimes with lasting limitations.
Many victims of bus accidents in Long Beach experience psychological trauma—such as panic attacks, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional recovery is just as critical as physical healing, often requiring therapy and support over the long term.
The aftermath of a Long Beach transit accident can be disorienting and stressful. Taking the right steps early on can protect your health and your rights.
Even if your injuries appear minor, it’s crucial to get checked by a medical professional. Conditions like internal bleeding or whiplash might not present right away. Timely care helps establish a clear medical record linked to the accident.
Call 911 and make sure a police report is filed. Whether the accident involved Long Beach Transit, a Metro Blue Line shuttle, a private tour bus, or an airport hotel shuttle, documentation is vital for both insurance and legal purposes.
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the bus, crash scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Talk to witnesses or other passengers and get their contact details. These firsthand accounts can be critical for proving fault.
Transit agencies or their insurers may contact you quickly. Don’t give recorded statements or sign anything without legal guidance. What you say early on could be used to reduce or deny your claim.
An attorney with experience in local transit cases can help you navigate complex procedures, identify who’s at fault, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Cases involving Long Beach Transit or Metro often involve government entities with strict deadlines.
An experienced local lawyer understands the unique legal landscape surrounding public transportation in Long Beach. These cases often involve multiple parties, strict deadlines, and resistance from city agencies or insurers.
A skilled attorney will dig into every detail—reviewing driver logs, bus maintenance history, police reports, and any available surveillance footage. They may also bring in experts to reconstruct what happened and identify mechanical or human error.
Filing a claim against Long Beach Transit or Metro means dealing with special legal rules and short filing windows. Your lawyer will take care of paperwork, communicate with government agencies, and keep everything on schedule.
An attorney will calculate all your damages, from medical bills and therapy to lost wages and emotional suffering. If the insurance offer falls short, your lawyer can negotiate—or take the case to court if necessary.
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will be ready to present your case in front of a judge and jury. They’ll use expert witnesses, evidence, and legal strategy to fight for justice and fair compensation.
The strength of your personal injury case depends heavily on the available evidence. The more clearly you can connect your injuries to the incident, the stronger your legal position.
Reports from Long Beach Police Department or CHP, along with internal transit agency logs, are foundational documents in proving fault. Statements from drivers, witnesses, or fellow passengers can add crucial context.
Take clear pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries. Many buses have onboard security cameras. Footage from nearby businesses, phones, or dashcams may also help support your version of events.
Doctor’s notes, hospital bills, prescriptions, and therapy reports are essential in showing how your health was impacted. Regular follow-up care strengthens your claim by demonstrating the seriousness of your injuries.
Attorneys may work with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, or economic experts to help explain what happened, how you were hurt, and what it means for your future.
If you were injured in a Long Beach bus collision—on a public bus, private shuttle, or hotel transport—you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.
You can claim reimbursement for ER visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, prescription drugs, and future medical needs. More severe injuries typically mean greater medical costs.
If you missed work or became unable to perform your job, you could recover those lost wages. If your injuries limit future employment, compensation may also include projected lost earnings.
This includes damages for physical pain, psychological trauma, and loss of enjoyment in life. PTSD, anxiety, or major lifestyle changes often factor into these calculations.
If your belongings were damaged—like a phone, bike, or luggage—you can seek reimbursement. Other out-of-pocket costs, such as transportation or home care, may also be covered.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but several key factors affect the value of your claim. A personal injury attorney can give you a clearer estimate after reviewing your case.
More serious injuries—like head trauma, spinal cord damage, or internal injuries—usually lead to higher compensation due to intensive treatment and long-term effects.
If the injury affects your mobility, independence, or ability to earn a living, your potential payout increases. Permanent disability or major disfigurement are weighed heavily.
If Long Beach Transit or another party is clearly at fault, your case is stronger. However, under California’s comparative fault rules, your own share of responsibility may reduce the final award.
Claims involving public agencies may have caps on compensation. Your lawyer will investigate all applicable policies to ensure every possible avenue for recovery is pursued.
Act fast—missing the deadline could cost you your right to recover damages.
If the crash involved a private shuttle, charter service, or hotel transport, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
If Long Beach Transit, Metro, or a city-operated shuttle was involved, California law requires you to file a government claim within six months. If it’s denied, you usually have six more months to file a suit.
Some exceptions apply—such as if the injured party is a minor, has a cognitive disability, or experiences delayed symptoms. A lawyer can determine if these apply to your case and ensure you meet all deadlines.
Our Long Beach bus accident attorneys are here to offer trusted legal advice and help you pursue the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
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Long Beach offers a vibrant mix of attractions and activities, from beautiful coastlines to diverse urban centers. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Long Beach provides abundant exploration opportunities.
From beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor adventures to world-class attractions and a thriving food and arts scene, Long Beach provides endless chances to explore, savor, and create unforgettable experiences.
If you sustained injuries in a bus incident within Long Beach due to another party’s negligent conduct—such as an inattentive operator, hazardous road conditions, or defective vehicle components—you might have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim under California statutes. A proficient legal representative will assess several crucial elements, including:
Absolutely. Bus mishaps in Long Beach frequently entail not only physical wounds but also emotional and psychological distress that can profoundly affect your existence.
Who Is Eligible to Recover These Damages?: In the majority of instances, the injured individual—and in certain circumstances, close kin—can pursue financial recompense for emotional suffering. Supporting materials may include psychiatric evaluations, therapy notes, and personal declarations detailing how the accident altered your daily life in Long Beach.
Yes. Serious bus injuries often involve more than just physical harm—many bus passengers in California endure emotional and mental suffering as well.
Families in California rely on us to handle their bus accident claims with compassion and commitment. Here’s what they have to say:
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Over $200,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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