Bus Accident Injuries – Legal Help for Passengers and Motorists in Washington
Bus Accidents in Our Community
Public transportation keeps Washington moving, from Intercity Transit buses to local school buses and private charters. But when a crash happens, the results can be serious. At Bluhm Morgan PLLC, our bus accident lawyers in Washington represent both passengers and motorists who have been injured in collisions involving public or private buses across Thurston County.
Buses are large, heavy vehicles that can cause severe damage in a crash, especially on high-traffic routes like I-5, Capitol Boulevard, and Cleveland Avenue. Whether the incident involves a city bus, a school bus, or a commercial shuttle, our attorneys know how to handle the complexities these cases bring.
Unique Challenges of Bus Accident Claims
Bus accident claims can be especially complex because they often involve government entities or large transportation companies. If you were hurt while riding a city bus or your child was injured in a school bus accident, you may need to file a special tort claim notice before pursuing a lawsuit. In Washington, this notice usually must be filed within a limited time, and missing the deadline can jeopardize your right to compensation.
Bluhm Morgan PLLC understands these local and state procedures and helps clients meet every requirement while building a strong case. We handle communication with city attorneys, school districts, and insurance carriers so you can focus on healing.
Injuries to Bus Passengers vs. Other Drivers
A bus accident can cause injuries to people inside the bus as well as to others on the road. Bus passengers often face serious trauma because most buses lack seatbelts, leaving them vulnerable to being thrown around in a crash. Meanwhile, drivers or pedestrians struck by buses face extreme impact forces that can lead to catastrophic injuries.
Our attorneys represent victims in every situation, including passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. We pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages, rehabilitation, and the emotional impact of these crashes.
Determining Fault in Bus Crashes
Figuring out who is responsible for a bus accident requires careful investigation. Liability may fall on the bus driver, the transit company, the school district, a vehicle maintenance provider, or even another driver whose negligence caused the collision.
At Bluhm Morgan PLLC, we collect
driver training records, maintenance logs, and eyewitness statements to establish fault. When a bus is operated by a public entity like Intercity Transit, additional regulations apply, and we ensure every filing meets the legal standards required by Washington state law.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bus Accidents
If I was hurt as a passenger on a city bus, who can I claim against?
Usually, you can bring a claim against the public transit authority if the bus driver was at fault, or against another motorist if they caused the collision. These claims may require a special filing process for government entities.
Is there a shorter time limit for claims involving public buses or school buses?
Yes. Claims against a city or school district may have shorter filing deadlines. A tort claim notice must often be submitted before a lawsuit can be filed. Acting quickly helps preserve your right to compensation.
What if my child was injured in a school bus accident?
We handle these cases with special care. Children injured in school bus crashes deserve full compensation for medical care, long-term treatment, and emotional recovery. We pursue accountability from any responsible party, including the district or its transportation contractor.
Support for Bus Accident Victims
Bus accidents can leave victims facing high medical costs and complicated legal processes. Whether the case involves Intercity Transit, a school district, or a private charter company, Bluhm Morgan PLLC provides experienced, local representation to help you recover what you deserve.
We know the roads, the rules, and the community — and we’re ready to stand by your side. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn how our firm can help after a bus accident in Washington or surrounding areas.