Can I Sue the City After a Bus Accident?

 Posted on April 30, 2025 in Personal Injury

Bus accidents can leave victims with serious injuries, long-term medical expenses, and emotional trauma. If your crash involved a public transit bus in Los Angeles — such as one operated by LA Metro — you might wonder whether you can sue the city for damages. The answer might be yes, but claims against government entities in California follow a different process and have stricter deadline than claims against other civilians.

Here is what you need to know if you are thinking about filing a claim against a city or public agency after a bus crash. Our Los Angeles personal injury attorneys can further assist with the specifics of your case.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for an L.A. Metro Bus Accident?

When a city-run bus is involved in a collision, liability often falls on a government agency like the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). Other potentially responsible parties may include:

• The bus driver, if they were negligent or violated traffic laws

• A third-party driver, if another vehicle caused the crash

• A maintenance contractor, if poor vehicle maintenance played a role

• A manufacturer, in the case of a defective part or mechanical failure

Determining liability requires a thorough investigation, especially when multiple parties may be at fault.

How Is Suing a Government Entity Different from Suing Another Civilian?

In California, injury claims against public entities fall under the California Government Claims Act. This law requires you to file a written claim with the appropriate agency before you can sue. You typically have just six months from the date of the accident to submit your claim.

The government then has 45 days to respond. If the claim is denied, you have only six months from the denial to file a lawsuit in court. Missing any of these deadlines could result in losing your right to recover compensation.

What Can You Be Compensated For?

If you are successful in filing a claim or lawsuit against the city or transit authority, you may be able to recover damages for:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care and long-term treatment

• Lost income and reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage

In cases involving serious injuries, a skilled attorney can help ensure that your claim accounts for both current and future financial needs.

Contact an L.A. Bus Accident Attorney

Filing a lawsuit against a city agency is not simple — but you do not have to face the process alone. If you were injured in a bus accident in Los Angeles or elsewhere in LA County, contact Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. to speak with a Los Angeles public transit injury attorney who understands California’s legal requirements for government claims. Call 818-242-8201 for a free consultation and let us help you protect your rights.