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 Francisco depends heavily on its public bus network to transport thousands of residents, students, and tourists each day. Despite its importance, bus-related collisions continue to pose a significant public safety concern throughout the city. These incidents often result in serious physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens for passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists. Whether the crash stems from traffic delays, driver mistakes, equipment issues, or unsafe bus stop designs, accidents involving buses in San Francisco can leave lasting—sometimes permanent—impacts.
The aftermath of a bus crash in San Francisco can be daunting, especially for those coping with surgeries, prolonged therapy, or chronic medical needs. Victims may be entitled to pursue compensation for emergency treatment, loss of earnings, and psychological suffering. Working with a seasoned San Francisco bus accident lawyer can be key to proving liability and securing the financial support needed to rebuild your life.
This page outlines the common injuries seen in local transit collisions, what forms of compensation may be available, and the legal process following a bus accident in San Francisco. Knowing your legal rights under California law can help you make informed decisions about your health, finances, and future.
At RMD Law, we understand how life-altering a serious bus accident can be for victims and their loved ones. Our legal professionals have successfully represented clients injured in transit-related incidents across San Francisco, including cases involving Muni buses, school buses, and private shuttle services. We offer personalized, compassionate legal counsel and are committed to pursuing full financial recovery for our clients. No matter which transit provider was involved, our team is ready to support you from your first call to final resolution.
Lawsuits involving public bus systems like San Francisco Muni carry unique legal challenges, especially when government agencies are involved. These claims must follow strict procedures, such as filing a government claim within a narrow window of time. At RMD Law, we have deep experience navigating these complex cases and holding San Francisco’s transportation entities accountable for unsafe driving, maintenance failures, or hazardous conditions.
Whether you were hurt as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or driver, our team will conduct a thorough investigation—reviewing maintenance logs, gathering video evidence, and consulting with specialists to build a strong claim. We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bus accident can take and fight hard to recover damages for your treatment, lost wages, and future needs.
You don’t have to face this alone. With RMD Law, you gain a skilled legal team with the determination and experience to hold San Francisco’s transit authorities accountable and help you pursue the justice and results you deserve.
Public transit accidents are a serious concern in San Francisco, a city with a robust and widely used public transportation system. These incidents, while relatively infrequent given the volume of riders, can have significant consequences for passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
In San Francisco, buses fall under the category of “common carriers” as defined by California law. This classification imposes a heightened legal duty on transit providers to safeguard their passengers. Both government-operated and private bus services are obligated to take all practical steps to ensure rider safety. When operators, agencies, or transit companies—whether serving the Mission District, SoMa, or neighborhoods near Golden Gate Park—fail to meet this duty due to operator negligence, poor vehicle upkeep, or insufficient driver education, they can be held legally accountable. This legal standard is central in many San Francisco bus crash claims and is crucial when pursuing financial recovery for injuries.
At RMD Law, we assist individuals injured in a wide range of bus-related incidents across San Francisco and the greater Bay Area. Whether the crash involved a city-operated bus or a regional shuttle, our team understands the complexities that come with these claims:
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) operates a large fleet of Muni buses, metro light rail vehicles, and iconic cable cars that navigate the city’s busy streets. Due to high ridership, steep hills, and crowded urban environments, accidents involving these vehicles are not uncommon and can lead to serious injuries for passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists. Issues such as operator distraction, mechanical failure, or poor visibility at intersections often play a role. These cases can involve complex liability questions, especially when multiple parties, including the city or third-party contractors, are involved.
Golden Gate Transit buses serve San Francisco and connect to neighboring counties like Marin and Sonoma. Accidents involving these regional buses can occur on highways, bridges, and city streets, often at high speeds or in congested traffic. Injuries can be severe, particularly when buses collide with smaller vehicles or fail to account for changing traffic conditions. Additionally, ferry-related incidents may involve dockside injuries or boarding accidents, which also fall under transit liability law.
BART serves as a critical regional rail system, transporting thousands of passengers daily across the Bay Area. Accidents can happen inside stations, on platforms, or during train operations due to issues like malfunctioning doors, sudden stops, or escalator and elevator failures. Riders may also be injured due to poor security or inadequate crowd control in stations. Claims involving BART are handled under specific government procedures, and a careful investigation is needed to determine if negligence occurred.
Tour buses and private shuttles frequently operate in popular tourist areas like Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz landing zones, and near major hotels or event venues. These vehicles often share tight and busy roads with pedestrians, cyclists, and cars, increasing the risk of collisions or pedestrian strikes. Accidents may be caused by overworked or untrained drivers, lack of vehicle maintenance, or disregard for traffic laws. Unlike public transit cases, claims against private operators may involve insurance disputes and aggressive defense tactics, requiring experienced legal support.
Pinpointing the root cause of a bus crash is vital in establishing fault and securing compensation. Common contributing factors in San Francisco include:
Bus drivers must stay focused while maneuvering through San Francisco’s congested streets. Distractions like phone use, eating, or talking to passengers can easily lead to collisions. Even a momentary distraction may result in serious harm.
Many operators work long, demanding shifts—especially during peak commuter times. Fatigue slows reaction time and impairs judgment. If transit employers overlook rest regulations, they may be liable for fatigue-related accidents.
Handling a bus in urban traffic requires proper instruction. When agencies skip critical training programs or hire inadequately qualified drivers, the public faces greater danger on the roads.
Issues like faulty brakes, malfunctioning doors, or steering defects are significant threats to passenger safety. Transit providers that neglect essential maintenance can be held responsible for preventable accidents.
Potholes, missing traffic signals, or poor lighting—especially on hilly streets or tight corners—can heighten the risk of a crash. In some cases, the city or state may share legal responsibility for unsafe road infrastructure.
Reckless drivers who swerve into bus lanes, cut off buses, or speed through intersections can cause devastating crashes. Comprehensive investigations may be necessary to identify every party at fault.
Several entities may bear responsibility following a transit-related collision in San Francisco. A thorough case review is essential to establish liability and maximize your compensation:
Operators may be directly liable if their unsafe behavior—such as failing to stop at a red light or texting while driving—contributed to the accident. This applies to drivers of Muni buses, school buses, and private charters.
Public systems like SFMTA and private shuttle companies are responsible for hiring trained drivers and maintaining safe fleets. Any failure in these obligations can lead to claims of negligence.
If faulty road design, malfunctioning traffic signals, or poorly marked intersections played a role in the crash, city or county governments might share blame. Filing claims against public entities requires strict procedural compliance.
If a defective part—such as a faulty braking system—contributed to the crash, manufacturers or third-party maintenance providers may be liable. These cases often involve technical investigations and expert testimony.
If your injury involves SFMTA or another public transit provider, California law imposes special rules for claims against government bodies.
Under the California Government Claims Act, you must submit a claim within six months of the incident date. Missing this deadline could permanently prevent you from receiving compensation.
Your claim must clearly describe when and where the incident occurred, what injuries you sustained, and the compensation you’re requesting. Incomplete or vague submissions can delay your case. Supporting documents like photos, witness statements, and medical records strengthen your position.
Once your claim is filed, the agency has 45 days to respond. If the claim is denied or goes unanswered, you may proceed with a civil lawsuit. Following each deadline precisely is essential for preserving your legal rights.
Navigating a case against a public transit agency like SFMTA can be complicated. An experienced San Francisco bus accident attorney can manage the legal process, communicate with government representatives, and make sure your case remains on track. These cases often involve multiple at-fault parties—such as private maintenance contractors or negligent drivers—making skilled legal counsel essential.
Due to their considerable size, capacity to transport dozens of people, and limited safety features like seatbelts, bus collisions in San Francisco can cause a variety of serious injuries. These injuries don’t just affect passengers—pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers are also at risk, especially in busy areas such as Downtown San Francisco, near major transit hubs like the Salesforce Transit Center, or along heavily traveled routes like Market Street and Van Ness Avenue.
Sudden stops or collisions can jolt riders abruptly, leading to neck injuries, muscle strain, or whiplash. This is particularly common for standing passengers or those on Muni buses during peak hours. Since these injuries might not show symptoms immediately, seeking prompt medical care is essential for both recovery and documentation in a potential legal case.
During a crash, passengers may strike headrests, windows, or poles, resulting in concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even minor head trauma can impair memory, focus, or emotional stability. In severe cases, ongoing treatment with neurologists or cognitive therapists may be required.
Injuries to the back or spine can have long-lasting consequences. Victims may sustain herniated discs, broken vertebrae, or even partial or total paralysis. These types of injuries often demand surgery, rehabilitation, and lifelong care—and can drastically alter one’s quality of life.
High-impact crashes or rollovers may lead to broken arms, ribs, or hips. Shattered glass or exposed metal can cause deep lacerations or puncture wounds. Many of these injuries need surgical treatment and prolonged recovery, often accompanied by physical limitations.
Many individuals involved in San Francisco bus collisions experience psychological stress—such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional healing is just as vital as physical recovery and may require counseling and support over an extended period.
After a bus-related incident in San Francisco, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Taking certain steps early can protect your well-being and your legal rights.
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare provider. Injuries like internal damage or whiplash can take time to appear. Prompt care also helps create a medical record connected to the incident.
Call 911 to report the crash and ensure a police report is filed. Whether the incident involved a Muni bus, tour bus, tech shuttle, or airport hotel van, official documentation is crucial for insurance claims and legal action.
If it’s safe, take pictures of the scene, the bus, visible injuries, and road conditions. Speak to other passengers or witnesses and get their contact information. These details can be key when determining fault.
Transit operators or their insurers may try to reach you quickly. Don’t provide recorded statements or sign documents without first speaking to an attorney. Your words could be used against you later.
A lawyer with experience handling transit-related cases in San Francisco can guide you through the legal process, identify responsible parties, and help you seek rightful compensation. Public transportation cases often involve city entities with strict timelines.
An experienced local attorney knows the legal complexities of public transit in San Francisco. These cases often involve several parties, tight deadlines, and resistance from public agencies or insurers.
A qualified lawyer will examine all aspects—reviewing driver records, maintenance logs, police documents, and any video footage. Expert investigators may be brought in to reconstruct the event and pinpoint mechanical or human failure.
Filing against the SFMTA or another city-run service involves unique procedures and shorter deadlines. Your attorney will handle all paperwork, interact with agencies, and ensure everything is filed correctly and on time.
Your attorney will assess every type of damage—from hospital bills and rehab to missed income and mental distress. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, they’ll negotiate or escalate the case to court.
If a lawsuit becomes necessary, your lawyer will be ready to argue your case before a jury. They’ll use expert testimony and solid evidence to push for the maximum possible award.
The outcome of your claim relies heavily on strong evidence. The more clearly your injuries can be linked to the accident, the stronger your case.
Police reports from SFPD or CHP, as well as internal transit documents, form the foundation of your case. Statements from witnesses or fellow passengers can also help establish what occurred.
Take clear photos of the crash scene, bus damage, and any injuries. Muni buses often have onboard cameras, and footage from nearby businesses, vehicles, or cell phones can reinforce your account.
Hospital records, doctors’ notes, prescriptions, and therapy logs all show how the incident impacted your health. Consistent medical treatment supports the seriousness of your injuries.
Attorneys often work with specialists—like accident reconstructionists, medical experts, or financial analysts—to demonstrate the cause of injuries and the long-term effects on your life.
If you were hurt in a San Francisco bus collision—on a city bus, private shuttle, or hotel transport—you may be eligible for several types of compensation.
You can recover expenses for emergency treatment, surgeries, therapy, medications, and any projected long-term medical needs. More severe injuries tend to result in higher compensation.
If your injury caused you to miss work or prevents you from returning to your job, you can claim both current and future income losses.
This includes compensation for physical suffering, trauma, and lifestyle disruptions. Conditions like PTSD or major emotional shifts often factor into these amounts.
If your belongings—like a phone, laptop, or bicycle—were damaged in the crash, you can claim replacement costs. Other related expenses, such as home help or transportation, may also be reimbursed.
There’s no fixed amount, but several factors influence the value of your claim. A personal injury lawyer can offer a clearer picture after reviewing your case.
Injuries involving head trauma, internal bleeding, or permanent disability often result in higher compensation due to the need for extensive care and lasting effects.
If the injury affects your ability to work, move, or maintain independence, the claim value increases. Lifelong impairments or disfigurement are major considerations.
If Muni or another party was clearly responsible, your case is stronger. Still, California’s shared fault laws could reduce your award if you’re partially to blame.
Claims involving public agencies may have limits on what can be recovered. Your attorney will evaluate all possible insurance policies and responsible parties to pursue full compensation.
Timely action is critical—missing a deadline can forfeit your right to seek damages.
If the crash involved a charter, rideshare shuttle, or hotel van, you typically have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.
If the SFMTA, Muni, or another city-run service is involved, California law requires you to file a government claim within six months. If denied, you usually have six more months to sue.
Certain exceptions may apply—such as cases involving minors, delayed symptoms, or cognitive impairments. A lawyer can evaluate your situation and ensure all deadlines are met.
Our San Francisco transit accident lawyers are available to provide reliable legal counsel and assist you in seeking the monetary recovery you merit. Reach out to us now for a complimentary case assessment.
Telephone: (949) 528-4853
For a more expedited discussion, please navigate to our Contact Us page.
San Francisco presents a dynamic array of sights and leisure pursuits, encompassing stunning shorelines and varied metropolitan hubs. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, San Francisco furnishes ample chances for discovery.
Reach Out to RMD Law for a Free Consultation About Your Bus Accident in California
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bus accident in California, contact us today for a no-obligation consultation. Our team is ready to provide trusted legal advice and pursue the financial compensation you need.
If you sustained harm in a bus incident within San Francisco due to another party’s negligent actions—such as a distracted operator, perilous 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 factors, including:
California adheres to a comparative fault framework, meaning you can still seek damages even if you bear some responsibility for the incident.
Absolutely. Bus mishaps in San Francisco 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 Francisco.
Californian families rely on our firm to manage public transportation accident claims, a trust we honor with dedication and care. Here’s what they’ve shared:
Trucking accidents are among the most serious and complex incidents on our highways, often causing severe injuries, fatalities, and significant financial burdens. Learn how an experienced California truck accident lawyer – like those at RMD Law – can fight to get victims the compensation they deserve.
So, why is driving slower than other vehicles just as – or more – dangerous as speeding? Let’s break down why driving slower isn’t safe.
From fender benders to severe injury crashes, Orange County car accidents often result in significant physical and emotional trauma, highlighting the need for appropriate medical and legal support.
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.
Business Hours
Open 24/7
Business Hours
Open 24/7
Business Hours
Open 24/7
Business Hours
Open 24/7
Disclaimer: The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.
