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.
San Bernardino depends heavily on its public transportation system to carry thousands of commuters, students, and tourists throughout the region each day. Unfortunately, collisions involving buses continue to pose a serious safety concern across the city. These incidents can result in severe physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial strain for passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Whether the cause is traffic congestion, driver negligence, mechanical issues, or poorly planned bus stops, bus-related accidents in San Bernardino frequently lead to long-term or even permanent consequences.
The aftermath of a bus crash in San Bernardino can be overwhelming—particularly for victims undergoing surgery, physical therapy, or extended medical treatment. You may have the right to seek compensation for hospital expenses, lost earnings, and emotional suffering. Working with an experienced San Bernardino bus accident lawyer can be key to proving liability and recovering the financial support you need to move forward.
This guide outlines common injuries resulting from bus collisions, the types of damages victims can pursue, and the legal actions to take following a crash in San Bernardino. Knowing your rights under California law can help you make informed decisions about your health, financial future, and overall well-being.
At RMD Law, we understand how life-changing a bus accident can be for victims and their families. Our seasoned legal team has successfully handled transit injury cases throughout San Bernardino, including those involving Omnitrans, school buses, and private operators. We provide compassionate, personalized legal support and are dedicated to helping our clients recover the full compensation they are entitled to. No matter which bus company was involved, we are ready to advocate for you from start to finish.
Cases involving public bus systems like Omnitrans bring specific legal challenges, especially since they deal with government agencies. These claims must follow special procedures, including filing a government claim within a limited time frame. At RMD Law, we have extensive experience navigating the complexities of holding San Bernardino’s transit authorities accountable for unsafe practices, poor maintenance, or driver negligence.
Whether you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or driver, our team will conduct a thorough investigation—reviewing maintenance logs, securing video evidence, and consulting with professionals to support your case. We recognize how deeply a bus accident can impact you physically, emotionally, and financially, and we work tirelessly to obtain compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and future care needs.
We’re here to support you through each stage of the legal journey. With RMD Law, you gain a knowledgeable team that knows how to challenge San Bernardino’s transit agencies and fight for the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.
Motorcoach mishaps present a considerable and persistent peril on San Bernardino’s progressively bustling and gridlocked roadways. Collisions involving buses contribute to the area’s traffic challenges and safety concerns.
In San Bernardino, buses are considered “common carriers” under California law. This classification means that operators owe passengers the utmost duty of care. Both public and private transit providers are legally obligated to take all reasonable steps to ensure rider safety. When drivers, transportation agencies, or operators—whether in Downtown San Bernardino, Highland, or nearby communities—fail to meet this duty due to negligence, lack of training, or poor maintenance, they may be held legally liable. This principle is a cornerstone of many San Bernardino bus accident cases and plays a vital role when pursuing compensation for injuries.
At RMD Law, we represent individuals injured in a broad range of bus-related accidents throughout San Bernardino and the Inland Empire. Whether the incident involved a local route or a regional shuttle, our team is equipped to navigate the specific challenges of each case:
Omnitrans is San Bernardino County’s primary public bus service, operating dozens of routes throughout the region. Accidents involving Omnitrans buses can happen due to driver negligence, mechanical failure, or external factors like road hazards or reckless motorists. Because Omnitrans is a public transit agency, claims must follow California’s government claim procedures, which include strict deadlines and documentation requirements. Victims injured on or by an Omnitrans bus may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
The sbX Green Line is Omnitrans’ Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service, designed to move large volumes of passengers quickly across major corridors like San Bernardino and Loma Linda. Due to its higher speeds, larger buses, and dedicated lanes, crashes involving sbX vehicles can result in serious injuries for passengers, pedestrians, or nearby drivers. These incidents may involve complex liability questions, especially when bus-only lanes or signal priority systems are involved. An experienced attorney can investigate whether driver error, transit policy, or third-party negligence contributed to the crash.
Metrolink trains connect San Bernardino County to surrounding areas, including Los Angeles, Riverside, and Orange Counties. Accidents involving Metrolink trains—whether derailments, collisions at crossings, or pedestrian strikes—can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These cases often involve multiple parties, including Metrolink, Union Pacific, local government agencies, and private maintenance contractors. Because train accidents involve both federal and state laws, legal claims are often more complex and require expert analysis and strong evidence.
School buses and private charter coaches are common throughout San Bernardino for daily student transport and group travel. When these vehicles are involved in collisions, passengers—especially children—can suffer serious or life-altering injuries. Liability may fall on the school district, private bus operator, vehicle manufacturer, or another driver depending on the cause. Claims involving minors or commercial carriers require careful handling, as they often involve additional legal protections, insurance considerations, and emotional trauma.
Identifying the root cause of a crash is critical to establishing responsibility and securing damages. Below are some of the most common factors behind bus accidents in the San Bernardino region:
Bus operators must remain vigilant while navigating San Bernardino’s congested roads. Distractions like texting, using devices, or talking with passengers can quickly lead to serious collisions. Even a momentary lapse can have devastating effects.
Transit drivers often work long hours, especially on high-demand commuter lines. Fatigue slows reaction times and impairs judgment. If transit companies neglect to enforce proper rest breaks, they can be liable for crashes caused by overworked drivers.
Driving a large passenger vehicle requires in-depth training. When transportation companies cut corners or hire underqualified personnel, they put everyone at risk.
Problems with brakes, suspension, or doors pose significant safety hazards. Transit operators that fail to conduct routine inspections or address known issues may be held responsible for resulting accidents.
Potholes, inadequate lighting, or missing road signs—especially in rural or industrial areas—can cause or contribute to crashes. In such cases, government agencies responsible for road upkeep may also share the blame.
Other motorists who tailgate, illegally pass buses, or ignore bus lanes can trigger major collisions. A thorough investigation may be needed to determine fault and pursue all responsible parties.
Bus accidents in San Bernardino often involve multiple parties. A comprehensive investigation is essential to determine fault and help victims recover maximum compensation:
Drivers may be held accountable if their negligent behavior—such as speeding, texting, or ignoring traffic laws—led to the crash. This applies to drivers of Omnitrans, school, or private buses.
Public agencies and private operators are responsible for properly training drivers and keeping buses safe. When they fail to meet these obligations, they can be found negligent under California law.
If a poorly maintained road, malfunctioning signal, or unsafe intersection contributed to the crash, a government entity could be partially at fault. These claims follow strict rules and filing deadlines.
If a mechanical failure caused by a defective part played a role in the crash, the manufacturer or repair provider may be liable. These cases often require expert engineering analysis.
If your bus accident involved Omnitrans or another publicly funded transit service, you must follow California’s special procedures for claims involving government entities.
The California Government Claims Act requires that a formal claim be filed within six months of the accident. Failing to meet this deadline could prevent you from seeking any compensation.
Your claim must clearly describe the date, location, type of injuries, and requested damages. Missing or vague details can delay your case. Supporting evidence such as medical records, photos, and eyewitness statements strengthens your claim.
Once submitted, the government agency has 45 days to respond. If the claim is denied or ignored, you may move forward with a formal lawsuit. Timely action is crucial to preserving your legal rights.
Pursuing compensation from a public transit provider like Omnitrans can be complex. A knowledgeable San Bernardino bus accident lawyer can manage legal filings, communicate with agencies, and ensure your claim complies with all requirements. These cases often involve multiple parties, making legal experience critical to success.
Because of their large size, capacity to carry many passengers, and limited safety features such as seatbelts, bus accidents in San Bernardino can result in a wide range of serious injuries. These injuries don’t just affect those inside the bus—pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers of nearby vehicles are also at risk, especially in high-traffic areas like Downtown San Bernardino, near Cal State San Bernardino, or along major roads like the I-215 or Route 66.
Sudden impacts can throw passengers forward or sideways, causing soft tissue damage, neck strain, or whiplash. This is especially common on Omnitrans buses or other regional transit lines, particularly when passengers are standing or seated without restraints. Because these injuries may not appear right away, getting prompt medical attention is crucial—for your health and for any potential injury claim.
During a crash, riders can hit windows, poles, or seatbacks, leading to concussions or even traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even mild head trauma can disrupt memory, emotional balance, or cognitive ability. In more serious cases, patients may require long-term neurological treatment and rehabilitation.
Injuries to the spine or back can be life-altering. Victims may suffer from fractured vertebrae, slipped discs, or, in severe cases, paralysis. Recovery often involves surgeries, months of physical therapy, and permanent adjustments to daily routines.
High-speed bus collisions or rollover events can lead to broken bones—arms, legs, ribs, or hips. Debris such as shattered glass or jagged metal can also cause deep cuts or punctures. These injuries often require surgery and extensive recovery, and in some cases, long-term mobility challenges.
Many San Bernardino bus crash survivors experience emotional and psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Therapy and counseling may be needed to fully heal, especially after a traumatic crash or injury.
In the aftermath of a bus crash, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Taking immediate and informed steps can make a big difference in both your recovery and your legal rights.
Even if injuries seem minor, a full medical exam is vital. Internal injuries or soft tissue damage may not show up right away, and early documentation helps link your condition to the incident.
Call 911 and ensure a police report is filed. Whether the accident involved Omnitrans, a local shuttle, or a private tour bus, official documentation is essential for insurance and legal matters.
If you’re able, take photos of the crash site, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Talk to bystanders and fellow passengers, and get their contact information. Their statements may help prove who was at fault.
Insurance companies for transit providers often reach out quickly. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing anything until you speak with a personal injury attorney—your words could be used against you.
A lawyer with experience in San Bernardino transit cases understands the legal complexities of suing public or private transit operators. They can protect your rights, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Transit-related injury cases often involve complex legal issues, especially when government agencies are involved. A local attorney with experience in San Bernardino knows how to navigate the system effectively.
Your attorney will examine all evidence—maintenance records, bus driver logs, witness reports, and any available video footage. In many cases, expert analysts are brought in to help recreate the crash and pinpoint what went wrong.
Filing a claim against a public entity like Omnitrans involves strict rules and time limits. Your lawyer will manage all paperwork and ensure deadlines are met while pursuing all legal options on your behalf.
An attorney will calculate the full extent of your damages, from medical expenses and lost wages to emotional distress and long-term care. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, they’ll prepare for trial to fight for your best interests.
If your case proceeds to court, your lawyer will present solid evidence, call expert witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury. They’ll be ready to pursue the outcome you deserve.
Your legal case is only as strong as the evidence behind it. The more documentation and testimony you have, the better your chances of securing fair compensation.
Reports from the San Bernardino Police Department or California Highway Patrol are essential. These include statements from bus drivers, passengers, and witnesses, which help build a clear picture of what happened.
Images from the crash site, visible injuries, and any surveillance or dashcam footage can strengthen your claim. Buses may also have internal cameras that can provide vital evidence.
Your medical records, prescriptions, and therapy notes help document the severity of your injuries. Consistent care supports your claim by showing the injury’s ongoing impact on your health.
Attorneys often bring in medical specialists, economic analysts, or accident reconstructionists to explain how the crash happened, how it harmed you, and how it affects your future.
If you were injured in a San Bernardino bus crash, you may be entitled to compensation. This includes both immediate and long-term losses.
You may be reimbursed for hospital bills, doctor visits, rehab, and necessary medications. More serious injuries often come with higher medical costs and longer recovery periods.
If you had to miss work or your injuries prevent you from returning to your job, you may recover those lost wages. For lasting injuries, projected future income loss may also be included.
This category includes physical pain, mental health challenges, and a reduced quality of life. PTSD, anxiety, or permanent disability can significantly increase the value of your claim.
You can also recover for damaged personal property—phones, clothing, bikes—and out-of-pocket expenses such as transportation, home modifications, or caregiving services.
There’s no fixed dollar amount, but several factors help determine how much compensation you can expect. A personal injury lawyer can give a more specific estimate after reviewing your case.
More serious injuries like brain trauma or spinal damage usually result in higher compensation due to the cost and lasting effects of treatment.
If the injury prevents you from working or requires long-term care, your claim’s value increases. Permanent disability or major lifestyle changes are also significant.
Your case is stronger when there’s clear evidence that the bus driver or transit operator was at fault. Under California law, shared fault may reduce compensation, but it won’t eliminate it.
If you’re suing a public agency, there may be caps on certain types of damages. An attorney will explore all potential sources of compensation, including multiple parties or policies.
Deadlines matter—a missed filing could mean giving up your right to compensation.
If your accident involved a private shuttle, charter, or tour bus, California law gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Claims involving Omnitrans or city-operated buses must be filed within six months under California’s Government Claims Act. If the claim is denied, you typically have six more months to sue.
There are limited exceptions—such as for minors, people with cognitive impairments, or cases with delayed symptoms. A lawyer can evaluate your timeline and help ensure you meet every legal requirement.
Our San Bernardino bus crash lawyers are prepared to provide reliable legal counsel and assist you in seeking the monetary recovery you are owed. Reach out to us now for a complimentary claim assessment.
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San Bernardino offers a dynamic blend of sights and endeavors, from stunning natural scenery to varied urban zones. Whether you’re a permanent resident or a short-term guest, San Bernardino presents countless opportunities for discovery.
If you suffered injuries in a bus incident within San Bernardino due to another party’s negligent actions—such as a distracted operator, hazardous road conditions, or faulty vehicle components—you might have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim under California statutes. A skilled legal representative will evaluate several critical elements, including:
California adheres to a comparative fault framework, meaning you can still seek damages even if you bear some accountability for the incident.
Absolutely. Bus mishaps in San Bernardino 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 San Bernardino.
San Bernardino families rely on us to handle their bus accident claims with compassion and commitment. Here’s what they have to say:
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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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