Banning Bus Accident Statute of Limitations

Drivers and pedestrians share the streets with buses each day. City buses, school buses, and private companies all fill the roads with large multiseat vehicles. If you are involved in an accident with one of these vehicles, you may suffer serious injuries and property damage because of the size and weight of the bus.

If you have a personal injury claim, you have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit against the other party. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. The Banning bus accident statute of limitations depends on what kind of bus was involved in the collision. For help understanding the time limits that apply in your case, reach out to our experienced bus crash attorneys.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Private Buses?

A statute of limitations is the maximum time a claimant has to bring a legal claim in a civil suit. In California, you have two years from the date of an accident or injury to file a lawsuit (CA Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). This deadline includes any claim for negligence or wrongful death.

If your bus accident is caused by a private bus company in Banning, such as a shuttle or limo, you would have two years to make a legal claim against them. These buses are considered “private vehicles” and are subject to the same rules as any other private company. Since California is an at-fault state, you must file your claim with the bus company’s insurance carrier, and that means dealing with the insurer and its attorneys.

What if the Other Party Is a Public Bus?

If the bus involved was a public bus, such as a city bus or a school bus, then you only have six months from the date of the accident to file a claim in Banning. Under the California Tort Claims Act, claimants must follow a precise sequence of steps to bring a claim against the government, including cities and school districts.

• Confirm that the entity is a government agency. You must sue the proper agency and department within the government.
• Complete the proper forms for filing an action with the agency. The location of the accident may mean you have to file several lawsuits. For instance, an accident with a city bus on the highway may require filing with both the city and CalTrans.
• File within the six-month deadline. If you miss the deadline, you will not be able to file your claim.

After you file, the government has 45 days to respond. If they accept your claim, they will pay you and close your case. If not, you have six more months to appeal your case.

Our Banning Attorneys Can Help You File Your Bus Accident Claim Within the Statute of Limitations

As you can see, a bus accident is a complicated legal matter with tight deadlines. If you believe you may need legal assistance, Walter Clark Legal Group is here to answer your questions and keep your case on track. Whether the defendant in your case is a private carrier or a city bus, it is important to stay on top of the deadlines in your case.

That’s where we come in. We will help you gather the evidence you need to file your claim within the Banning bus accident statute of limitations. If you have a shorter government deadline, our legal team will ensure your documents are filed on time and with the proper agencies. Call us as soon as you’ve been involved in an accident. We’ll review your case and give you our best legal advice.