Bus Crash Sparks Concern in the Bay Area

Bay Area residents choose bus transit for many reasons, including convenience, affordability, and sustainability. Most bus riders expect a relatively smooth trip, and they may even look forward to a private moment to read or scroll their phones. What most bus riders do not expect, however, is a crash. Unfortunately, this is a genuine threat for passengers, which is demonstrated with shocking clarity by a recent incident in the Bay Area. If you have suffered injuries in a San Francisco bus crash, you might be wondering about potential compensation. How much compensation can you get? Who can you sue? What does a bus accident settlement cover? These are all valid questions, and they’re best left answered by a qualified, experienced injury attorney in San Francisco.

Muni Bus Crash Causes One Injury

On February 8, 2024, it was reported that a runaway Muni bus in Daly City had caused at least one injury. Officials say that this was a single-vehicle accident, implying that the bus simply veered off the road before crashing. Photos from the scene suggest that the bus may have come into contact with signage, utility poles, and trees before finally screeching to a halt. 

The injured individual was likely a passenger, and they had to be hospitalized as a result of their injuries. Their exact condition is not clear, although more information may arise after an in-depth investigation. It goes without saying that this situation is quite alarming, but it is not the first time a bus has crashed in the Bay Area.

In 2016, a Muni bus crash was blamed on a “computer error” that affected the braking system. Also in 2016, a Greyhound bus headed to the Bay Area crashed, causing two deaths and 18 injuries. In 2018, another Muni bus crashed, causing critical injuries to the driver. In 2014, 10 people died when a FedEx truck slammed into a bus, causing one of the worst bus crashes California has ever seen. 

How Can I Sue for a Bus Crash in San Francisco?

Suing for a bus crash in San Francisco may be easier than you think. Many bus services are operated by government municipalities, and you may have the ability to file a claim directly against the city. Although this process can be slightly more complex than filing a normal car accident claim, it can lead to fair compensation under the right circumstances. You can navigate this process with confidence alongside an experienced personal injury attorney in San Francisco. 

If the bus is operated by a private company, such as a tour company, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against them. This should also be a relatively straightforward process, as private bus companies are required to carry comprehensive insurance coverage for these types of crashes. 

If you have lost a loved one due to a fatal bus crash in San Francisco, you can pursue something called a “wrongful death lawsuit.” This type of lawsuit allows you to recover compensation for a wide range of damages, including future lost wages, emotional distress, loss of consortium, unpaid medical expenses, funeral costs, and much more. 

Of course, you do not necessarily need to sue the bus driver or the bus company in order to recover compensation. Instead, you could file a claim against a negligent driver who caused your bus crash. For example, a reckless motorist might have cut off your bus, forcing the bus driver to swerve off the road to avoid a collision. In this case, you could file a claim against the reckless driver to recover compensation. 

What Do I Need to Prove to Win My Bus Accident Lawsuit?

You may need to prove that the bus driver or the bus company was negligent in some way. For example, you might show that the bus driver failed to follow proper procedures on the road. They might have failed to yield to a semi-truck, or they might have failed to properly maintain the vehicle. Generally speaking, bus drivers and bus companies owe their passengers a duty of care. 

Find a Qualified Bus Accident Lawyer in San Francisco

If you have been searching for an experienced bus accident lawyer in San Francisco, look no further than Mary Alexander & Associates. We know how traumatic and life-altering bus accidents can be, and you are fully within your rights to explore legal action. While this legal process might seem daunting, we can guide you through every step. After consulting with us, you can shift your focus back to the healing process as we pursue compensation on your behalf. Reach out today to learn more about your options for compensation.