Denver Bus Accident Lawyer

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Being in a bus crash and sustaining injuries is a terrifying and stressful experience. These personal injury cases can be particularly complex because school buses and RTD buses are different, each with its own distinct regulations. If you are seeking financial damages either for yourself or a family member, securing skilled representation is key to success.

At Olson Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced attorneys can navigate your case from start to finish, providing clarity and sound legal advice throughout the process. Call our law office today at (303) 381-2234 to schedule an initial consultation with a Denver bus accident lawyer.

Why You Should Work With a Top-Rated Denver Bus Accident Lawyer

Bus collision cases are unique, and the law often treats them differently from a typical passenger vehicle wreck. Because of this, it is essential to partner with a legal professional who understands the intricacies of Colorado law and how they apply to your specific case.

Our seasoned Denver lawyers are committed to helping victims seek full compensation following a serious bus accident. Our firm is deeply rooted in the local community, and we have made it our mission to stand by individuals and families during some of the most difficult times in their lives. When serious accidents happen, we step in; not just as attorneys, but as advocates who care.

Our team brings decades of combined experience in personal injury law, with a track record of securing meaningful outcomes for our clients. We have successfully handled complex cases involving catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and insurance disputes, always with a focus on delivering justice and restoring lives.

Words of Trust From Our Clients

We are known for our integrity, courtroom experience, and client-focused approach, gaining the trust of numerous individuals across the region. Read our testimonials to learn more about past clients’ experiences with us.

Types of Denver Bus Accidents Our Attorneys Handle

Our team has extensive experience handling a wide range of bus accident cases across the state, including but not limited to:

  • Regional Transportation District (RTD) Buses – RTD buses are a vital part of the public transportation system in the Denver-Aurora area, offering a range of services to meet community needs. Between 2019 and 2025, an average of 113 RTD trains and buses have been involved in crashes in Denver.
  • School Buses – Collisions involving school buses can be particularly frightening because children are frequently affected. From 2011 to 2016, Colorado school bus wrecks totaled 1,500.
  • State and Private Buses – State and private bus accidents pose a significant public safety concern, especially when transporting passengers. In the United States, private bus accidents can range from minor fender benders to catastrophic accidents involving multiple vehicles.

Get in touch with our law office today to learn more about the types of auto collision cases our Denver attorneys can take on.

Common Causes & Injuries of Bus Accidents in Denver

Bus drivers have a legal responsibility owed to their passengers; this is known as their duty of care. These individuals must operate their vehicles safely and actively prevent harm to their passengers and others on the road.

Some of the ways in which a bus driver can act negligently and cause a collision include the following:

  • Tailgating
  • Speeding
  • Ignoring road signs or traffic signals
  • Road rage
  • Driver fatigue
  • Distracted driving, such as texting, GPS use, and eating
  • Driving impaired with alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications
  • Reckless driving
  • Sudden stops or unsafe boarding and unboarding practices

There may also be causes of bus accidents that may be out of the bus driver’s control, such as:

  • Poor vehicle maintenance, such as brake failure and tire blowouts
  • Weather conditions
  • Unsafe road conditions, like potholes, construction zones, and a lack of signage
  • Mechanical defects or manufacturer errors
  • Other motorists’ negligent behavior

Several types of injuries can result from a bus accident to the driver, passengers, and other individuals surrounding the vehicle, such as:

  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Bruises and contusions
  • Whiplash
  • Sprains and strains
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Seatbelt-related abrasions or bruising
  • Fractured or broken bones
  • Traumatic brain injury (including concussions)
  • Skull fractures
  • Internal bleeding
  • Spinal cord trauma

Who Can Be Held Liable for Bus Accidents in Denver?

Bus accident cases are not always clear-cut in terms of liability. More than one party may be responsible for the crash, which can quickly complicate the compensation process. The type of bus always influences who can be held accountable for damages.

For example, in a school bus wreck, any number of entities may share liability, including the school district, the bus company, and the bus driver. However, in RTD bus accidents, liability may fall on RTD itself or an equivalent public transit agency, a private contractor, or a specific road authority.

There are special considerations to keep in mind when it comes to Colorado-specific traffic laws. For instance, governmental bodies, such as school districts, RTD, and cities, often have immunity or caps on damages, notice requirements, and shorter deadlines. Our hardworking Denver attorneys can help you identify the liable party in your bus crash case and make sure justice is served.

How To File an RTD Bus Accident Claim in Denver, Colorado

RTD bus accident claims follow a unique process for filing and eventually securing compensation. By being proactive in the aftermath of a crash, you can preserve a claim and your rights to financial recovery.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor, prompt medical treatment documents your condition and creates essential records for your claim.

Report the Incident

Ensure the accident is reported to RTD and local law enforcement. Obtain a copy of the official accident report as soon as it is available.

File a Notice of Claim

Because RTD is a public entity, you must comply with the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act:

  • A formal Notice of Claim must be filed within 182 days, just over 6 months, of the accident.
  • Failure to meet this deadline may bar your right to recover compensation entirely.

Begin the Claims Process

If your notice is accepted, you can pursue compensation through:

  • Insurance negotiations
  • Administrative claims
  • Filing a personal injury lawsuit, if needed

Preserve Evidence

Photos, videos, witness statements, bus surveillance footage, and medical records all help strengthen your case.

Denver Bus Accident Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Compensation Can I Get From a Bus Accident in Denver?

Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. In Denver, the amount depends on the severity of your injuries and who is at fault, such as the RTD, a private bus company, or another party.

How Long Do I Have To File a Bus Accident Claim for My Injury in Denver?

You typically have three years to file a personal injury claim in Colorado, but if the accident involves a public entity like RTD or a school district, you must file a Notice of Claim within 182 days, or your case may be barred entirely.

After a Bus Accident in Denver, Should I Speak to a Lawyer Immediately?

Yes, an experienced lawyer can guide you through what to do next, protect your rights, and help you avoid costly mistakes, especially if you are dealing with a government entity like RTD or a private bus operator.

How Much Does Hiring a Bus Accident Lawyer Cost?

At Olson Personal Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front, and we only get paid if we win your case. We also offer a free consultation to help you understand your legal options.

What Specific Evidence Should I Collect Immediately After a Bus Accident in Denver?

Try to collect photos of the scene, your injuries, bus and vehicle damage, contact info for witnesses, and any available bus number or driver ID; this evidence can be critical for proving liability and supporting your claim.

What if I Were a Passenger on the Bus? Does My Claim Process Differ?

Yes, as a passenger, you are typically not at fault, which may simplify your claim, but it still requires identifying the responsible party, whether the bus driver, RTD, or another motorist.

Injured in a Bus Accident in Denver? Call Our Denver Bus Accident Lawyer

Our Denver bus accident lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you deserve. With our experienced team by your side, you can navigate the complex claims process with confidence. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. Do not wait—call now to protect your rights and start your recovery.

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