If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a bus accident in Jersey City, you need experienced legal representation to pursue the compensation you deserve. Bus accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, our Jersey City bus accident lawyer understands the complexities of bus accident claims and fights aggressively to recover maximum compensation for our clients.
Why Choose Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers for Your Bus Accident Claim
Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers has recovered over $535 million for injured clients across New Jersey since our founding in 1967. Our team includes certified civil trial attorneys with decades of combined experience handling truck accidents, including bus crashes. Edward P. Capozzi, founder and chair of our Personal Injury Department, brings over 25 years of legal experience to every case. He has earned recognition as a Super Lawyer since 2013 (initially recognized as a Super Lawyers® Rising Star in 2012) and received induction into the New Jersey Law Journal Hall of Fame in 2014. Our attorneys have achieved numerous multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements, including a $2.25 million settlement for a client injured when an NJ Transit bus was struck from behind by a school bus. Our strong reputation is supported by testimonials from clients we’ve successfully represented.
We handle bus accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our Jersey City office is conveniently located at 239 Washington Street, Suite 307, and we offer free consultations to discuss your case. Call (201) 583-5765 to schedule your free consultation with a Jersey City personal injury attorney today.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Jersey City
Bus accidents occur for various reasons, and identifying the cause is critical to establishing liability. Driver negligence represents a leading cause—speeding, distracted driving, and drowsy driving all contribute to bus crashes. Mechanical failures present another significant cause. Defective brakes, steering systems, or tire blowouts can cause a bus to lose control suddenly. Unsafe road conditions, including potholes, debris, and poor weather, contribute to accidents. Additionally, inadequate maintenance by bus companies increases the risk of mechanical failures that lead to crashes. Poor driver training and inadequate safety protocols also play roles in many bus accidents.
When investigating your bus accident claim, our attorneys examine all potential causes to establish liability and maximize your compensation. We also investigate NJ Transit bus accidents involving public transportation systems.
Types of Bus Accidents We Handle
Our attorneys represent victims injured in all types of bus accidents. We handle NJ Transit bus accidents, which involve governmental entities and require navigating special notice requirements and immunity considerations. We also represent clients injured in private charter bus collisions, school bus accidents, intercity bus crashes, and accidents where a bus was struck by another vehicle. Each type of accident presents unique liability issues that our experienced team knows how to address.
Additionally, we handle motor vehicle accidents involving buses and other commercial vehicles, as well as pedestrian accidents where pedestrians are struck by buses. Our Jersey City personal injury lawyers also handle train accidents and other public transportation accidents.
Injuries from Bus Accidents
Bus accidents frequently result in severe and catastrophic injuries due to the force involved. Victims suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBI) that can cause permanent cognitive and physical impairment, affecting memory, concentration, and personality. Spinal cord injuries and paralysis occur when passengers are thrown violently or crushed during impact, potentially resulting in permanent disability. Broken bones and fractures are common, as are internal injuries and organ damage from blunt force trauma. Additionally, whiplash and soft tissue injuries affect many bus accident victims, causing chronic pain and requiring ongoing medical treatment. Lacerations, burn injuries, and crush injuries also occur in severe bus accidents.
Head and neck injuries are particularly common in bus accidents due to the sudden deceleration and impact forces. These injuries can have long-term consequences requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
Bus Accident Liability in New Jersey
Establishing liability in a bus accident claim requires proving that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries. Bus companies have a duty to maintain their vehicles properly, hire qualified drivers, and operate safely. When a bus company fails to meet these obligations, it may be held liable for passenger injuries.
Third-party liability also applies when another driver causes the accident. For example, if a car strikes a bus, the car’s driver may be liable for injuries to bus passengers. Additionally, manufacturers may be held liable if a defective part caused the accident.
Public transit claims involve special considerations. NJ Transit is a governmental entity, and claims against it require compliance with the Tort Claims Act, including providing written notice within 90 days of the accident. Our attorneys understand these procedural requirements and ensure your claim meets all deadlines and requirements.
How to File a Bus Accident Claim
After a bus accident, take immediate steps to protect your claim. Seek medical attention for your injuries, even if symptoms appear minor. Document the accident scene with photographs and video if possible. Obtain contact information from witnesses and the bus driver. Report the accident to the bus company and file a police report.
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a bus accident lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident, as established under New Jersey Revised Statutes § 2A:14-2. However, if the accident involves NJ Transit or another public entity, you must provide written notice of your claim within 90 days. Missing this deadline can bar your claim entirely.
Compensation in a bus accident case includes economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a bus accident?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injury, may not show symptoms right away. Report the accident to the bus driver and the company. Document the scene with photographs and collect witness contact information. Preserve any physical evidence, such as your clothing or personal items damaged in the accident. Follow up with medical providers and keep detailed records of all treatment and expenses. Do not sign any documents or statements without consulting an attorney. For more guidance, see our article on what to do if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident.
How long do I have to file a bus accident lawsuit in New Jersey?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Jersey is two years from the date of the accident under N.J.S.A. § 2A:14-2. However, if your claim involves a public entity like NJ Transit, you must file a notice of claim within 90 days of the accident. Failing to meet this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Contact an attorney immediately to ensure your claim meets all applicable deadlines. Read more about the deadline for claiming injuries after a car accident.
Can I sue a bus company directly?
Yes, you can sue a bus company for negligence. Bus companies have a legal duty to maintain their vehicles, hire qualified drivers, and operate safely. If the company breaches this duty and causes your injuries, you can recover compensation. Additionally, you may pursue claims against the bus driver personally, other drivers involved in the accident, and manufacturers of defective parts that contributed to the crash.
What damages can I recover in a bus accident case?
You can recover economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium. In cases involving gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct. For detailed information, see our guide on what damages I can recover in a bus accident case.
How much is my bus accident claim worth?
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of medical treatment required, your lost income, and the impact on your quality of life. Catastrophic injuries resulting in permanent disability command higher settlements than minor injuries. Our attorneys evaluate all factors in your case to determine fair compensation. We have recovered millions for clients injured in bus accidents and other transportation accidents. Learn more about how much lawyers usually take from a settlement.
Do I need a lawyer for a bus accident claim?
While you can file a claim without an attorney, having legal representation significantly increases your chances of recovering full compensation. Insurance companies and bus companies have experienced adjusters and attorneys working to minimize payouts. Our attorneys level the playing field by investigating your accident thoroughly, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, and litigating if necessary. We handle your case on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Contact Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers for Your Free Consultation
If you suffered injuries in a bus accident in Jersey City or elsewhere in New Jersey, contact Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers at (201) 583-5765 today. Our Jersey City personal injury attorneys are ready to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. Call (201) 583-5765 or visit our Jersey City office at 239 Washington Street, Suite 307. We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis. Let our experienced team fight for the compensation you deserve.
Written by: Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers Last Updated : October 30, 2025We are the trial attorneys with the experience and knowledge to get you the results you deserve. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, we take time to get to know you, as well as your case. We are committed to excellence. It is important for our team to understand your fears, concerns and expectations. We are always available to answer any questions, and are willing to come to you if you are unable to come to us.
Contact Your New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys
