Injured in a Houston Bus Accident?
Houston Bus Accident Attorney
A bus crash can hurt many people at once, and it often involves several parties at the same time: the driver, the bus company, a school district or transit authority like METRO, and sometimes another driver. Choosing the right bus injury attorney after a crash can make a real difference in your case. The Miller Law Firm — home of The Texas Bulldog — is here to help.
Quick Answer: Who Pays After a Bus Accident?
If a bus accident injured you in Houston, you may be able to recover compensation from the driver, the bus company, or a government transit authority like METRO. Claims against a government-owned bus have a much shorter notice deadline, as little as six months, so acting quickly matters. The Miller Law Firm offers a free case review.
Bus accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties and intricate laws. A skilled attorney can handle those challenges for you, investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you need to recover.
Watch
Houston Bus Accident Lawyer: School, City & Charter Bus Attorney
Adam Miller — The Texas Bulldog — on bus accident cases in Houston.
Types of Bus Accidents We Handle
The kind of bus involved changes who is responsible and what rules apply. We handle crashes involving every type of bus.
School Buses
Often involve a school district, a contracted bus company, and young passengers. Read about a school bus accident in Houston and the Leander ISD school bus rollover.
City and Transit Buses
METRO and other transit buses are run by government entities, which brings special notice deadlines and damage limits. See our METRO bus accident page.
Charter and Tour Buses
Charter and tour companies are often private carriers that must follow federal safety rules and carry large insurance policies.
Intercity and Motorcoach Buses
Long-distance motorcoach crashes can cause serious injuries to many passengers at highway speeds.
Shuttle and Airport Buses
Hotel, airport, and employer shuttles are often run by private companies and their insurers.
Paratransit and Medical Transport
Vehicles that carry riders with disabilities require extra care in securing passengers and wheelchairs.
Who May Be Liable for a Bus Accident?
Bus companies, public and private, are held to a high duty of care as common carriers. If negligence caused your injury, whether by the driver, the bus company, or another motorist, you may have a claim.
The Bus Driver
If speeding, distraction, fatigue, or unsafe driving caused the crash.
The Bus Company
If it failed to properly hire, train, or supervise the driver, or skipped needed maintenance.
A Transit Authority or School District
If a government-owned bus caused the crash, entities like METRO or a school district may be responsible, subject to special rules.
A Maintenance Contractor
If poor inspections or repairs left a bus with bad brakes, tires, or steering.
The Manufacturer
If a defective part, such as a brake or tire, contributed to the crash.
Another Driver
If a negligent driver of a car or truck caused the bus crash.
Read more about how a bus accident attorney can help you sort through who is responsible.
Special Rules Apply
Claims Against a Government-Owned Bus
Claims against a government entity like METRO or a school district are governed by the Texas Tort Claims Act. You generally must give formal written notice within six months of the accident, far shorter than the standard two-year deadline for a private claim.
How Long You Have to Act
Government-owned bus
METRO, school district
METRO, school district
Private bus company
charter, tour, shuttle
charter, tour, shuttle
Day of crash1 year2 years
For a government-owned bus, the written notice of claim is due within six months of the accident. Some city charters set an even shorter period.
A Short Notice Deadline
The government entity must generally receive notice of your claim within six months of the accident (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 101.101). Some cities require even shorter notice in their charters.
Limits on Damages
The Texas Tort Claims Act limits what you can recover. For many local government entities, such as school districts, the cap is $100,000 per person and $300,000 per incident for injury or death. The exact limits depend on the type of entity.
When the Government Can Be Sued
Texas allows claims for injuries caused by a government employee's negligent operation of a motor vehicle within the scope of the job, which includes bus drivers (§ 101.021).
No Punitive Damages
Punitive (exemplary) damages are not available against a government entity under the Act.
Because the deadline is so short and the rules are technical, call an attorney as soon as you can after a crash involving a school bus or transit bus. Private bus companies follow the usual two-year deadline.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents
Most bus crashes can be traced back to a handful of preventable causes.
01
Driver Fatigue
Long shifts and tight schedules can lead to drowsy driving.
02
Distracted Driving
Phones, radios, and passengers can pull a driver's attention from the road.
03
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
A large bus needs a long distance to stop and can roll over in a sharp turn.
04
Poor Maintenance
Worn brakes, bad tires, and steering problems can cause a crash.
05
Inadequate Training
Companies that hire or train drivers carelessly put passengers at risk.
06
Impaired Driving
Alcohol, drugs, or certain medications can slow a driver's reaction time.
07
Dangerous Road Conditions
Construction zones, poor road design, rain, and fog can contribute to a crash.
08
Other Drivers
Cars and trucks that cut off, rear-end, or sideswipe a bus can cause serious crashes.
Common Bus Accident Injuries
Many buses do not have seat belts for every rider, so passengers can be thrown around the cabin in a crash. Injuries can be serious.
1
Head Injuries
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can happen even when there is no visible wound.
2
Whiplash and Spinal Injuries
Sudden stops can strain the neck and back, and severe crashes can cause lasting nerve damage and loss of movement.
3
Chest and Internal Injuries
Broken ribs and blunt force can cause internal bleeding and organ damage.
4
Arm and Hand Injuries
Wrists, arms, and hands are often fractured when passengers brace for impact.
5
Leg, Hip, and Knee Injuries
Passengers thrown against seats and poles often break legs and hips or tear ligaments.
6
Emotional Trauma
Many riders, especially children, are left with anxiety and fear after a crash.
If you or your child suffered a life-changing injury, read about catastrophic injury claims in Texas. If a child was hurt, call an attorney right away, because different rules can apply to claims involving children.
Preserve It Early
Evidence in a Bus Accident Case
Evidence is crucial for a successful bus accident claim, and bus companies often start building their defense right away. We move quickly to collect and preserve what matters.
Onboard Video
Many buses have interior and exterior cameras. This footage may be overwritten quickly.
Accident and Police Reports
Official reports document the scene, the parties, and the first findings.
Driver Records
Hours worked, training, qualifications, and drug and alcohol testing records.
Maintenance Records
Inspection and repair logs show whether the bus was safe to drive.
GPS and Dispatch Data
Route, speed, and schedule data can show whether the driver was rushed.
Witness Statements
Other passengers, drivers, and bystanders can tell what they saw.
Medical Records
Records that connect your injuries to the crash and show the treatment you need.
Insurance Policies
Federal rules set minimum insurance levels for interstate for-hire passenger carriers, such as $5 million for buses that seat 16 or more. We identify every available policy.
What to Do After a Bus Accident
After a bus accident, taking prompt steps is vital. Time can affect both evidence and your legal options.
1
Right away
Get medical care
Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Some injuries do not show up for hours or days, so get checked even if you feel fine.
2
At the scene
Report the crash
Make sure the accident is reported to the police and to the bus driver or company.
3
At the scene
Document everything
Take photos of the bus, the scene, and your injuries. Get names and contact information for other passengers and witnesses.
4
First few days
Keep your records
Save your ticket, pass, or boarding receipt, plus medical bills and any missed-work records.
5
Ongoing
Be careful with insurers
Do not give a recorded statement or sign a release until you understand your rights.
6
As soon as possible
Call an attorney
If a government-owned bus was involved, the notice deadline may be as short as six months.
Damages You May Recover
Compensation in Bus Accident Claims
Each type of compensation addresses a different need. A bus injury attorney will assess your case to determine the best strategy.
Medical Expenses
Covers treatment costs from the accident, including ongoing care and future medical needs.
Lost Wages
Compensates for income missed during recovery, plus lost earning capacity if you cannot return to your old work.
Pain and Suffering
Addresses the physical pain and emotional toll of the accident.
In cases involving gross negligence by a private bus company, additional exemplary damages may be available. If a loved one died in a bus crash, your family may have a wrongful death claim.
How a Bus Accident Lawyer Can Help
A bus accident lawyer guides you through the legal process, so you can focus on healing. Their experience eases the stress of handling claims and settlements.
Investigate the crash
We gather the accident report, secure video and records, and interview witnesses.
Identify who is liable
We find every liable party and every available insurance policy.
Handle the insurers
We negotiate with insurers for a fair settlement.
File the paperwork
We meet every deadline, including a government notice of claim when it applies.
Go to court if needed
We represent you at trial and work with expert witnesses.
How to Choose a Bus Accident Attorney
Finding the right bus injury attorney can feel overwhelming. Here is what to look for, and what to watch out for.
What to Look For
- Bus accident experience, including claims against government entities
- A strong track record and reviews from past clients
- Local knowledge of Houston courts, experts, and Texas law
- Clear communication, with regular updates in plain language
- A transparent contingency fee, so you pay only if you win
- A free consultation to ask questions before you commit
Red Flags
- A lawyer or case runner who contacts you first
- Promises of a specific dollar amount before reviewing your case
- Pressure to sign right away
- No experience with bus or government claims
- Unclear fees or costs
- Hard to reach, or slow to explain your options
How Much Does a Bus Accident Attorney Cost?
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
$0Upfront to hire us
$0Unless we win your case
$0For your first consultation
We don't chase accident victims, and we fight those who do. If a caller, case runner, or someone claiming to represent a law firm contacted you about your bus accident before you reached out to anyone, that contact may be illegal under Texas law. The Texas Bulldog is a recognized voice against illegal lawyer solicitation and barratry. See our guide on what to do if a lawyer contacts you first.
Client Reviews
Nothing builds trust like hearing directly from the people we have helped. Here is what some of our clients say.
★★★★★
“Adam Miller and his staff are very kind, respectful and professional. They handled my situation very well and made me feel comfortable. I was even able to speak to him directly if I had to discuss any concern I had. I definitely recommend them.”
G Rodriguez
Google Review
★★★★★
“Miller Law Firm is your best choice if you are ever in an accident. They were with me every step of the way and helped me win big! Excellent customer service and an attorney that truly cares! Highly recommend!”
Devin Hebert
Google Review
★★★★★
“Adam Miller is representing me in regards to a vehicle related accident. He is honest, straight forward, and made me feel comfortable during a time of uncertainty. Do not hesitate to call the Miller Law Firm!”
Reed Harding
Google Review
★★★★★
“If you are ever in an accident contact the Miller Law Firm. They are so helpful and reliable. The staff there are amazing and knowledgeable about your case. If they don't know they will find out. Mr. Miller is amazing and funny. It's a Texas BullDog thing.”
Tericka Marshall
Google Review
Helpful Bus Accident Guides
These guides go deeper on bus accident claims in Houston and across Texas.
Bus Accident Lawyers in HoustonYour guide to justice and compensation after a Houston bus crash.Read the guide →Houston METRO Bus Accident LawyerWhat injured METRO riders and drivers on the road need to know.Read the guide →METRO Bus Falls Off Highway 288 OverpassWhat injured passengers need to know after this crash.Read the guide →How a Bus Accident Attorney Can Help YouWhat a lawyer does after a bus crash.Read the guide →Bus Accident Lawyer in KatyProtecting bus accident victims in the Houston suburbs.Read the guide →School Bus Accident in HoustonWhy you need a bus crash attorney after a school bus accident.Read the guide →Leander ISD School Bus RolloverWhy you need a Texas bus accident lawyer after a school bus rollover.Read the guide →Texas Statute of Limitations GuideThe filing deadlines for injury claims.Read the guide →Texas Comparative Fault GuideHow shared fault can affect a claim.Read the guide →
Bus Accident FAQs
Here are answers to common questions from bus accident victims in Houston.
Who can be held liable for a bus accident in Houston?
Depending on the circumstances, liability may fall on the bus driver, the transit authority (such as METRO) or school district that owns the bus, the private bus company, or another negligent driver who caused the crash.
Are claims against a government-owned bus different from claims against a private bus company?
Yes. Claims against a government entity like METRO or a school district are subject to the Texas Tort Claims Act, which caps damages and generally requires a formal written notice of claim within six months of the accident, far shorter than the standard two-year deadline for a private claim.
What compensation can I recover after a bus accident?
You may be able to recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in cases involving gross negligence, additional exemplary damages.
What if I was a passenger on the bus that crashed?
Bus companies, public and private, are held to a high duty of care as common carriers. If negligence caused your injury, whether by the driver, the bus company, or another motorist, you may have a claim.
How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Texas?
Generally two years for a claim against a private party (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003), but as little as six months to file a required notice of claim against a government entity like a school district or METRO. Acting quickly is critical.
How much does it cost to hire a bus accident attorney?
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Can I sue a school district after a school bus accident?
Sometimes. Texas allows claims for injuries caused by a government employee's negligent operation of a motor vehicle, which can include a school bus driver. You must give timely written notice, and the damages are limited. Talk to an attorney as soon as possible.
What if my child was hurt on a school bus?
Get your child medical care first, then call an attorney right away. Claims involving children and government entities have special rules, and evidence such as onboard video can be erased quickly.
What if a bus hit me while I was driving or walking?
You do not have to be a passenger to have a claim. Drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists hurt by a negligent bus driver may also recover compensation. Read about a pedestrian struck by a METRO bus.
Should I give a statement to the bus company's insurance company?
Be careful. The insurance company works to protect the bus company, not you, and may use your words against you. Speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement. Read our recorded statement guide.
Ready to Speak With an Attorney?
Contact a Houston Bus Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been in a bus accident in Houston, do not wait. Call (713) 572-3333 or contact us online for a free consultation. The Miller Law Firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured Texans, and you can read what our clients say in our five-star Google reviews.
We will keep you updated through every step of the process.
Our Houston Office
Address4900 Woodway Drive, Suite 900
Houston, TX 77056
Houston, TX 77056
Phone(713) 572-3333
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