Metro buses are the most widely used public transportation in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) reported more than 311 million rides in 2024.
With so many vehicles on the road and millions of passengers relying on them, accidents are unfortunately, inevitable. Whenever a crash occurs, victims often face pain, financial stress and an unfamiliar legal process. Understanding state law and the challenges of filing can make a real difference.
Who is responsible for bus accidents?
Under California law, LACMTA may be liable for bus accidents if the facts show the agency’s negligence. Fault, however, does not always rest with the public agency alone. Other parties who may be liable include:
- The bus driver, when careless or reckless actions led to the crash
- A third-party driver, if another vehicle caused the collision
- The city or county, when poor road conditions and malfunctioning traffic signals caused accidents
- Vehicle manufacturers, if a defect in any part of the vehicle is the reason for the crash
Identifying potentially liable parties in advance can significantly strengthen a personal injury case.
How is fault determined in bus accidents?
Fault in a bus accident is not legally determined by the responding law enforcement officer. Although police may document the scene and collect various forms of evidence, settlement negotiations or a judge ultimately determines liability.
In California, the pure comparative fault rule allows an injured person to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, but the total financial recovery is reduced by that person’s own percentage of negligence.
What are the challenges in filing a claim?
Pursuing a claim against a public agency is often challenging due to:
- Government claim deadline: Victims must file a formal claim with the Authority within six months of the crash before they can start a lawsuit.
- Proving negligence: The victim must present sufficient evidence that LACMTA or another party breached a duty of care.
- Insurance disputes: Without legal help, victims may settle for far less than their case is worth because government agencies often have legal teams that work to reduce payouts.
Victims often benefit from taking prompt steps to protect their rights. This typically includes taking photos of the scene, seeking immediate medical evaluation and securing legal guidance to meet all requirements in pursuing compensation.
