Most of us have ridden a bus at some point—whether for school, work, or travel—but when a bus accident occurs, the consequences can be severe. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, thousands of people are injured in bus-related crashes each year across the United States. If you are struck by a bus or injured while riding one, you deserve the same justice and compensation as any other accident victim. Because these cases often involve government agencies or complex liability issues, having an experienced Bakersfield Bus Accident Lawyer on your side is critical to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured while riding a bus or struck by one, you deserve the same justice and compensation as any other accident victim. However, pursuing a bus accident claim can be complicated—especially when the case involves a city bus, school bus, or other government-operated vehicle. These claims often require navigating strict deadlines, government immunity issues, and extensive legal procedures.
That’s why having an experienced Bakersfield bus accident lawyer like Donald Colvin is essential. Donald not only understands complex vehicle claims—he also takes the time to understand you, not just your case. His extensive background handling municipal and private bus accident claims helps clients secure the maximum compensation available, even when government agencies are involved.
Thousands of Bakersfield residents rely on buses every day—whether for commuting, school transportation, or long-distance charter travel. Although bus accidents occur less frequently than car crashes, they often result in more severe injuries due to:
The size and weight of buses
High passenger capacity
Lack of seatbelts in many models
The bus’s high center of gravity, increasing rollover risk
Passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and even nearby drivers can all suffer catastrophic injuries in a bus collision. And because bus accidents often involve government entities or school districts, filing timely claims is critical. Working with an experienced Bakersfield accident attorney ensures your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
Because buses lack many of the safety features found in passenger vehicles, injuries in a bus crash can be especially severe. Passengers may be thrown from their seats or struck by unsecured objects such as backpacks or personal belongings. Pedestrians and cyclists are also at high risk due to lack of protection.
Common injuries include:
Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
Spinal cord damage
Severe skin burns
Lacerations, cuts, and abrasions
Facial injuries or disfigurement
Broken or fractured bones
Internal organ injuries
Soft-tissue strains and sprains
In the worst cases, bus accidents can result in permanent disability or death. Anyone injured in a bus wreck should immediately consult with a Bakersfield bus accident lawyer to understand their legal options.
If you are involved in a bus collision, taking the right steps can strengthen your injury claim:
Even if your injuries seem minor, some conditions—like brain injuries or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms right away.
If you are able, take photos or videos of:
Vehicle positions
Damage to the bus and other vehicles
Road conditions
Visible injuries
Bus number and identifying information
Write down anything you remember about how the accident happened.
Get names and phone numbers of:
Witnesses
Other passengers
Drivers involved in the collision
Most bus drivers are required to notify police, but if officers do not arrive shortly, call to report the accident yourself.
Provide only basic information such as your name, address, and ID. Do not say you feel fine or speculate about who caused the crash. These statements can be used against you later.
Bus accidents are complex. An attorney can:
Handle communication with insurers
Preserve evidence
Navigate government claim deadlines
Pursue full compensation for your injuries
If you were injured in a bus accident in Bakersfield, do not navigate the process alone. These cases require fast action and experienced legal guidance. Contact Colvin Accident Lawyers for a free consultation and get the answers you need to protect your rights.