A bus crash can turn your life upside down in an instant.
Whether you were struck by a city-operated RTA bus, injured on a charter ride, or harmed as a pedestrian, the aftermath is overwhelming—physically, financially, and emotionally. At Daly & Black, P.C., our New Orleans bus accident lawyers are here to hold negligent transit companies, government entities, and insurers accountable.
When the system is stacked against victims, we go to war for them. From public transportation to private carriers, we know how to cut through red tape, uncover the truth, and fight for every dollar you’re owed.
If you’ve been injured in a bus crash—as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver—call Daly & Black now.
The Risks of Bus Travel in New Orleans
New Orleans streets are shared daily by thousands of residents, tourists, and commercial vehicles—including large buses operated by public agencies, private charters, and school districts. While these vehicles are vital to city infrastructure, they also pose serious danger when accidents occur.
Due to their size, weight, and limited maneuverability, buses are more likely to cause severe injury or death—especially when cyclists, pedestrians, or smaller vehicles are involved. Research analyzing over 350,000 pedestrian and cyclist injuries from 2016 to 2020 found the risk of fatal injury was highest when victims were struck by large vehicles like buses or trucks.
These crashes often affect children and vulnerable road users and result in life-altering harm. Because buses are typically operated by government agencies or major companies, recovering compensation is more complex than in a standard car accident.
Common Injuries in New Orleans Bus Accidents
Bus crashes often lead to catastrophic injuries—even at lower speeds. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were more than 110,000 injury crashes involving large trucks and buses in 2021.
Victims commonly suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): From blunt impact or whiplash, often resulting in lasting cognitive impairment
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis: Especially in high-speed or rollover accidents
- Broken bones and orthopedic trauma: Common in limbs, ribs, or pelvis
- Internal injuries: Including organ damage and internal bleeding
- Facial and dental injuries: Often caused by shattered glass or impact with seats and poles
- Psychological trauma: Such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression following a serious crash
These injuries bring high medical costs, extended time off work, and emotional hardship. At Daly & Black, we understand the ripple effects—and we fight for your full recovery.
What to Do After a Bus Crash
Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, taking the right steps after a bus crash is critical:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
- Document the scene. Take photos, get video, and collect witness names and contact info.
- Report the incident. File a complaint with the transit agency, bus company, or school district. Get a copy of the police report.
- Be cautious with insurance adjusters. Don’t provide recorded statements without legal guidance.
- Call a bus accident lawyer. Daly & Black can start an independent investigation and issue legal preservation notices.
Each type of bus case is different. Claims against the New Orleans RTA may have shorter deadlines and procedural requirements. Private companies, school buses, and national carriers like Greyhound have different obligations and insurance policies.
We handle them all—and we know how to hold each one accountable.
Why Do I Need a Bus Accident Lawyer?
Bus accident claims are complex. They often involve multiple potentially liable parties, including:
- The bus driver
- The transit agency or charter company
- The school district
- A third-party driver
- A vehicle or parts manufacturer
Each party brings its own legal protections, insurance carrier, and set of procedures. Many claims also involve federal and state safety regulations—such as those enforced by the FMCSA around driver qualifications, rest periods, and vehicle maintenance.
Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2320, employers can be held vicariously liable for employee negligence. But whether a transit agency, school board, or private contractor is liable often depends on how the crash occurred and whether they failed to prevent foreseeable harm.
An experienced bus accident lawyer can:
- Identify all liable parties
- Access maintenance records and regulatory documentation
- Navigate public vs. private claims timelines and caps
- Build a litigation-ready case backed by expert evidence
At Daly & Black, we’re equipped for the complexity—and prepared to go ALL IN.
How Much Compensation Can You Recover in a Bus Accident?
Every case is different, but you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
If the bus was operated by a public entity like the RTA, Louisiana Revised Statute §13:5106 caps general damages at $500,000. This cap includes pain and suffering but does not apply to special damages like medical costs or income loss.
If other parties contributed—such as a contractor or bus manufacturer—those claims are not subject to the public entity cap. Identifying all responsible parties is key to maximizing your recovery.
At Daly & Black, we explore every angle to ensure you recover what the law allows.
The Daly & Black Difference
You don’t need a law firm that just checks boxes and pushes fast settlements. You need a team that fights like your future depends on it—because it does.
At Daly & Black, P.C., we bring together deep trial experience, insurance litigation skills, and a relentless client-first mindset. We’ve gone up against powerful transit systems, national carriers, and government agencies—and we don’t back down.
We also prioritize your peace of mind. From day one, we keep you informed and in control. You’re not just a case number—you’re a person with a story that deserves to be heard.
When you hire Daly & Black, you get more than a lawyer. You get a partner who’s ALL IN.
FAQ
Who can be held liable in a New Orleans bus accident?
Public agencies like the RTA, private bus companies, drivers, maintenance contractors, and parts manufacturers may all share liability. A lawyer will help you identify every responsible party.
What should I do if I’m injured as a bus passenger?
Get medical help, file a report, and gather any possible evidence. Don’t speak with insurers before talking to a lawyer—they’re protecting the company, not you.
How can a lawyer help with a bus accident claim?
We investigate, preserve evidence, value your claim, and fight for full compensation—whether through negotiation or litigation. Daly & Black levels the playing field against powerful insurers and public entities.
No Win, No Fee: Bus Accident Representation in New Orleans
If you’ve been hurt in a bus accident, don’t trust your future to a company or agency looking to protect its bottom line. The bus accident attorneys at Daly & Black, P.C. are ready to fight for you—with zero upfront cost.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.Call us today for a FREE consultation. Let us hold them accountable and get every dollar you’re owed.