Public transit is part of daily life across California – city buses, Metro trains, and shuttles carry millions of riders every day. But when you are injured on public transit, or hit by a public bus, pursuing a claim comes with a critical catch that catches many victims off guard: a deadline far shorter than for an ordinary accident.
Here is what you need to know before that clock runs out.
A Much Shorter Deadline
Most California injury claims allow two years to file a lawsuit. But when your claim is against a government entity – including a city bus system, a county, or a public transit agency – you must first file a formal administrative claim within just six months of the incident, before you can go to court at all. Miss that six-month window, and even a strong case can be barred for good.
Public Transit Owes a High Duty of Care
There is good news for injured riders, too. Buses, trains, and other public transit are considered “common carriers” under California law, which means they owe their passengers the highest degree of care – a stricter standard than ordinary drivers. A transit agency that fails to operate and maintain its vehicles safely, and injures a passenger or pedestrian as a result, can be held responsible.
Where These Claims Arise
Public-transit injury claims come up in many ways – a bus that brakes or turns suddenly, a collision caused by a transit driver, a slip or fall while boarding, or a pedestrian or motorist struck by a public bus. Because a government entity is involved, all of them are subject to that strict six-month claim deadline.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Claim
If you were hurt on or by public transit, time is not on your side. Seek medical care, report the incident, and gather what you can – then speak with an attorney as soon as possible, well before the six-month deadline, so your claim is filed correctly and on time.
The six-month government-claim deadline is one of the easiest ways to lose an otherwise valid case. If you were injured on public transit or by a public bus in California, Ellin Mardirosian Law offers a free consultation – and the sooner, the better.
Helpful Resources & Links
Practice Areas – Ellin Mardirosian Law
Free Consultation – Contact Us
California Courts – Self-Help Center
California Legislative Information
Free consultation with Ellin Mardirosian Law – call (747) 310-5200. Representing accident and injury victims across California and Nevada. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Armenian.
Disclaimer: This article is general information about California (and, where noted, Nevada) law, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different – for guidance on your situation, speak with a licensed attorney.
