A major multi-vehicle crash involving a Metro bus in Downtown Los Angeles left several people injured and caused significant traffic disruptions. According to initial news reports, the collision involved the bus and at least two other vehicles, with one car becoming pinned underneath the front of the bus.

Los Angeles Fire Department crews responded to the chaotic scene, treating multiple patients for injuries. The incident highlights the immense danger posed by large public transit vehicles in dense urban environments and raises critical questions about liability and the process for recovering damages when a government entity is involved.

Legal Analysis: Filing a Claim After a Bus Accident

When you are injured in an accident involving a public transit vehicle like an LA Metro bus, the legal process is fundamentally different and more complex than a standard car crash claim. Government entities are protected by specific laws that create unique hurdles for victims.

• Strict and Short Deadlines: The most critical difference is the statute of limitations. In California, you typically have only six months from the date of the incident to file a formal “notice of claim” with the correct government agency. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to sue entirely. This makes it absolutely essential to contact an experienced bus accident attorney immediately.
• Determining Complex Fault: In a multi-vehicle pile-up like this one, determining fault requires a sophisticated investigation. Was the bus driver negligent? Did one of the other passenger cars cause the initial impact? We immediately work to preserve evidence like the bus’s “black box” (EDR) data, onboard camera footage, and witness statements to prove liability in the car accident.
• Holding the Government Accountable: Our investigation looks beyond just the driver. Was the bus properly maintained? Did the transit authority provide adequate driver training? A thorough investigation can uncover systemic negligence that contributed to the crash.

The injuries in these cases can be severe, and the process is challenging. Whether you were a passenger on the bus, an occupant of another vehicle, or even a pedestrian, you need an advocate who understands the specific rules for government claims. In the most tragic cases, a wrongful death claim may be necessary to seek justice for the family. A comprehensive personal injury case will hold all responsible parties accountable.

Contact Manoukian Law for a free and confidential consultation.