Colorado Springs Bus Accident Attorneys
Are You in Need of a Colorado Springs Bus Accident Lawyer?
When a bus accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating. Bus accidents can involve government entities and private carriers, which complicate the legal landscape. You may be entitled to significant compensation, but you won’t get it without a fight. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we have a proven track record of success, and we are deeply committed to our clients.
Why Choose Us Over Other Bus Accident Attorneys in Colorado Springs
If you were injured as a bus rider, pedestrian, or someone driving or traveling in another vehicle, you may be eligible to receive significant compensation. A knowledgeable Colorado Springs bus accident attorney can assess your situation and help protect your rights.
Here's what sets Timothy R. Bussey and The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. apart:
- Millions recovered for our clients
- Over 30 years of legal experience
- Led by former Deputy District Attorney Timothy R. Bussey
- Recipient of the Martindale-Hubbell Gold Client Champion Award
- Member of the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA)
- Featured on the cover of Colorado Springs Magazine
- Nationally published author and CLE speaker
- Recognized by Colorado Super Lawyer for more than 14 years based on peer reviews and independent research
You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
Let The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. fight for justice after your bus accident injury. Call our Colorado Springs car accident lawyers at (719) 475-2555 to learn more today.
Why You Should See a Lawyer Right Away
Time is not on your side after a bus accident. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can forget what they saw, and insurance companies will move quickly to limit their financial exposure. The sooner you contact Timothy R. Bussey, the sooner we can:
- Investigate the scene
- Collect evidence such as surveillance footage and black box data
- Interview witnesses
- Communicate with insurers on your behalf
- Ensure deadlines and statutes are not missed
Early legal representation strengthens your case and can help secure a better outcome.
Do You Have a Legitimate Case?
During your free consultation, The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. can review your case and go over your options for seeking compensation. You may have a valid claim if:
- You were injured in a crash involving a bus
- The accident was caused by someone else’s negligence (driver error, poor maintenance, etc.)
- You suffered physical, financial, or emotional damages as a result
Bus accidents can affect a wide range of victims:
- Bus riders
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Motorcycle riders
- Drivers and passengers in other vehicles
What's the Legal Process for a Bus Accident Claim?
At every stage of the legal process, your attorney acts as your advocate, pushing for full and fair compensation. While every case is unique, most bus accident claims follow these general steps:
- Free Consultation – Discuss your situation with a personal injury attorney.
- Investigation – Your lawyer gathers evidence to establish fault.
- Medical Evaluation – Documenting injuries and necessary treatment.
- Filing a Claim – A claim is submitted to the at-fault party's insurance or government agency.
- Negotiation – Attempts to reach a fair settlement.
- Lawsuit (if necessary) – If negotiations fail, your lawyer may file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Trial or Settlement – Your case resolves either in court or through a final negotiated agreement.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in Colorado?
In most personal injury cases in Colorado, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident if it involved a motor vehicle. However, if a government entity (like a city bus) is involved, you may have only 180 days to file a notice of claim.
Failing to act within these timeframes could prevent you from recovering any compensation. That’s why contacting a lawyer quickly is so important.
Types of Buses in Colorado Springs
Colorado has a variety of bus services, each operating under distinct regulations and oversight. Understanding the differences is crucial in any personal injury claim.
- Public Transportation Buses: Operated by agencies like Mountain Metro Transit or RTD (Regional Transportation District), these are government-run and require claims to be filed under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (CGIA), which imposes strict deadlines and damage caps.
- School Buses: Involving minors, these accidents trigger enhanced safety considerations and may involve public school districts or private contractors. Liability can extend to the school system and the driver.
- Charter and Tour Buses: Typically operated by private companies, these buses are subject to federal and state commercial transportation regulations. Companies must meet higher insurance minimums and are responsible for maintenance and driver qualifications.
- Private Shuttles: Hotel, hospital, and airport shuttle buses often carry commercial insurance. Liability may lie with the business operating the shuttle.
- Intercity Buses: Services like Greyhound fall under federal Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and can involve multi-jurisdictional legal complexities.
Who Is Liable for Your Injuries?
Bus accidents can be legally complex, often involving multiple potentially responsible parties. Determining liability is a critical first step in securing compensation for your injuries. Here are some of the parties who may be held accountable:
- The Bus Driver: If the driver was distracted, fatigued, under the influence, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they may bear direct responsibility. Professional drivers are held to a higher duty of care, and even momentary lapses can result in serious consequences.
- The Bus Company or Operator: Whether it’s a private charter company or a major transportation provider like Greyhound or Metro, the employer may be liable for negligent hiring, inadequate driver training, lack of supervision, or failure to enforce safety protocols. Additionally, companies that cut corners on maintenance or ignore known issues can be held liable for mechanical failures.
- City, County, or State Transportation Agencies: If a public transit bus (like LA Metro) is involved, a government entity could be responsible. However, claims against government agencies have shorter deadlines and strict procedural rules, making it crucial to act quickly.
- Other Drivers: In some cases, another motorist’s reckless or negligent behavior causes a collision that involves the bus. Even if the bus didn't cause the crash, injured passengers may still have a valid claim against that third-party driver.
Identifying the correct liable party often requires a detailed investigation, accident reconstruction, and expert analysis — which is why working with a skilled Colorado Springs personal injury attorney is essential in maximizing your recovery.
Not Sure if You Have a Case?
Our experienced bus accident attorneys will review your situation for free. Call (719) 475-2555 to speak directly with our team.
Types of Compensation Available
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, Colorado law allows you to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. These damages are meant to help restore what you’ve lost — physically, financially, and emotionally — and in some cases, hold negligent parties accountable.
- Medical Bills (Past and Future): You may recover costs for emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up visits, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any long-term care needs. Future medical expenses are especially important in serious injury cases where ongoing treatment or rehabilitation is required.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: If you missed work due to your injuries, you can claim compensation for those lost earnings. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your ability to earn a living in the future, you may also be eligible for damages related to diminished earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical discomfort and trauma caused by your injuries. Even if your medical costs are covered, you still deserve compensation for the pain endured.
- Emotional Distress: Accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disturbances. Emotional distress damages reflect the mental toll of the event.
- Property Damage: If any personal items — like a cell phone, laptop, or vehicle (in cases where you were driving) — were damaged in the crash, you may be reimbursed for repair or replacement.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed — such as sports, hobbies, or socializing — this non-economic damage may apply.
A skilled personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and ensure no category of damages is overlooked, helping you pursue the maximum compensation you're legally entitled to.
Case Results
Commercial Truck Accident – $2.6 Million
Our client was T-boned by a tractor-trailer. As a result, the client suffered significant back injuries requiring surgery, multiple injections, and other ongoing treatments, altering the course of their life forever. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., was able to secure a judgment in excess of $2.6 million dollars for the injured client.
Wrongful Death Car Accident – $750,000
The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., represented the wife of a man killed in an auto accident. The case settled before trial for $750,000.
What Clients Are Saying About Us
I can’t recommend him enough - Amy (5-Star Google Review)
I am incredibly grateful to Tim Bussey. As someone who had never hired an attorney before, I was quite nervous about the process. However, Tim immediately put me at ease with his compassion and kindness. It was clear he genuinely cared and took the time to explain everything in detail, ensuring I understood each step. His expertise and dedication were evident throughout the process. His empathy and professionalism made this situation much more manageable. I was very pleased with the outcome and I can’t recommend him enough.
Tim's steady, consistent approach led to a positive outcome far beyond what we expected - Beth (5-Star Google Review)
From our first contact with The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we were treated with personal, individualized interest, dignity, and flawless contact and follow-through. Tim's steady, consistent approach led to a positive outcome far beyond what we expected and dared to hope for. Five stars for Tim and his staff!
Speak With a Trusted Bus Accident Lawyer in Colorado Springs
The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. is ready to fight for your rights and pursue justice. With decades of legal experience and a reputation for excellence in Colorado Springs, Timothy R. Bussey is prepared to skillfully handle your case with attention it deserves.
Call (719) 475-2555 today for a free consultation, and let us get to work holding the right people accountable for your injuries.
Bus Accident FAQs
What should I do if I’m injured in a bus accident in Colorado Springs?
Seek immediate medical attention, call the police, and document everything if you're able—photos, witness info, and details of the crash. Then, contact an experienced bus accident attorney at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. to protect your rights and start building your case.
Can I file a claim if I was a passenger on the bus during the crash?
Yes. As a bus passenger, you may have a strong claim against the bus driver, bus company, another at-fault driver, or even a government agency—depending on who caused the crash. Our firm can investigate and pursue the responsible parties on your behalf.
Who can be held liable for a bus accident in Colorado?
Liable parties may include the bus driver, the company that owns or operates the bus, a private charter service, a school district, a government transit authority, or another motorist involved in the crash. We work to identify every party responsible so you can recover full compensation.
What types of injuries are common in bus accidents?
Bus accidents often result in serious injuries like head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord damage, internal injuries, and soft tissue damage. Even less severe injuries can have long-term effects and deserve full medical evaluation and legal attention.
How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Colorado?
You typically have three years to file a personal injury claim after a motor vehicle accident in Colorado. However, if the bus was operated by a city or government agency, you may only have 180 days to file a notice of claim. Time matters—don’t wait.
What if the bus involved was operated by a government agency?
If the bus was public (such as a Mountain Metro Transit vehicle), special rules apply under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act. You’ll need to file a formal notice of claim within 180 days, and failing to do so could prevent any recovery. We can help ensure every legal step is handled properly.
What compensation can I receive for a bus accident injury?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, future medical care, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage. In severe cases, compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement may also apply.
Meet Our Colorado Springs Bus Accident Attorney
Timothy R. Bussey
Timothy R. Bussey is the founder and lead attorney of The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. in Colorado Springs. A former Deputy District Attorney and former active-duty Air Force Judge Advocate, Mr. Bussey has built a reputation for tough, strategic representation in both criminal defense and personal injury law.
Mr. Bussey has successfully argued cases before the Colorado Supreme Court, and he is a nationally published legal author and frequent Continuing Legal Education (CLE) speaker. Known for his meticulous preparation and courtroom skill, he takes pride in fighting for his clients with integrity, tenacity, and a commitment to justice.
Additional Information
- NHTSA Aims to Make It Easier to Survive a Bus Rollover Crash
Commercial Motor Vehicle Traffic Safety Facts - FMCSA- Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts 2016 - FMCSA
- Mountain Metro