Bus Accident
Lawyer in Texas

How We Help You

Bus accidents can be devastating, often involving dozens of passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians. Victims are left facing medical bills, lost wages, and long recoveries. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we represent bus accident victims in Harlingen, Brownsville, Cameron County, Hidalgo County, and across the Rio Grande Valley.

Bus accident laws govern legal issues related to collisions involving public transportation buses, school buses, tour buses, and private charter buses. These laws address liability, insurance, and the rights of injured parties. Because cases involving government-operated buses fall under special rules, it is critical to work with an attorney who understands both personal injury law and the Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA).

Causes of Bus Accidents in the Rio Grande Valley

Bus accidents may stem from several causes, including:

• Driver Negligence: Speeding, distracted driving, texting, driving under the influence, or fatigue.
• Poor Maintenance: Worn brakes, bald tires, broken lights, and other neglected repairs.
• Weather Conditions: Heavy rain, flooding, or fog—common in South Texas—leading to reduced visibility and traction.
• Other Drivers: Collisions caused by reckless drivers cutting off buses or ignoring traffic signals.
• Unsafe Roads: Potholes, poor signage, or debris left in the roadway.

Common Injuries in Bus Accidents

Because of their size and lack of seat belts in many models, buses can cause severe injuries in a crash. Victims often suffer:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Head trauma and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Lacerations and internal bleeding
• Wrongful death in high-impact collisions

Even “minor” crashes can lead to serious injuries due to sudden stops, falls inside the bus, or impacts with hard surfaces.

Liability in Bus Accident Cases

Determining liability is complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility:

• The Bus Driver – Liable if negligence or recklessness directly caused the accident.
• The Bus Company/Owner – Responsible for maintenance, training, and safety policies.
• School Districts or Public Transit Agencies – May be liable under the TTCA if their negligence caused the crash.
• Manufacturers – If a design or mechanical defect (such as faulty brakes or steering) contributed.
• Other Drivers – When another motorist’s negligence caused the bus to crash.

The Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA) and Bus Accidents

One of the most important laws in Texas bus accident cases is the Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA).

What the TTCA Does

• The TTCA allows individuals to bring claims against government entities (such as school districts or municipal bus systems like Valley Metro or Brownsville Metro).
• Normally, government agencies have sovereign immunity, meaning you cannot sue them. The TTCA provides limited waivers to allow claims for accidents involving government vehicles like school buses and city buses.

Important TTCA Rules in Bus Accident Cases

• Notice Requirements: You must provide written notice to the government agency within a short timeframe (sometimes as little as 6 months).
• Damage Caps: The TTCA limits compensation against government entities. In Texas, caps are typically $250,000 per person and $500,000 per incident.
• Strict Deadlines: Missing TTCA deadlines may bar your claim completely, even if you were seriously injured.

Why You Need a Lawyer for TTCA Claims

Because TTCA cases involve strict rules, missing a notice deadline or filing in the wrong court can destroy your case. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we handle TTCA claims regularly, ensuring compliance with every procedural requirement.

Bus Company Regulations

Bus companies are subject to strict federal and state regulations that govern:

• Driver qualifications (CDL requirements, background checks).
• Limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue.
• Routine inspections and maintenance schedules.
• Safety training for drivers and staff.

Violations of these regulations can strengthen your claim by showing the company’s negligence.

Insurance Coverage in Bus Accidents

Bus companies typically carry large insurance policies. However, insurers often fight aggressively to reduce payouts, especially when multiple passengers file claims. An attorney ensures you are not pressured into settling for less than you deserve.

Wrongful Death Claims

If a bus accident in Harlingen or Brownsville results in a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Compensation may include funeral expenses, loss of income, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.

What To Do After a Bus Accident in Harlingen, TX

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately. Some injuries are hidden at first but worsen over time.
2. Report the Incident. File a report with local law enforcement or school/transportation officials.
3. Gather Evidence. If possible, take photos, collect witness contacts, and keep medical records.
4. Call a Harlingen Lawyer Right Away. Especially if a school bus or city bus was involved, because TTCA deadlines are short.

Why Go With Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers

• Experienced in bus accident litigation and TTCA claims.
• Aggressive trial lawyers—not afraid to go to court when insurers or agencies refuse fair settlements.
• Local knowledge of Cameron County, Hidalgo County, and Rio Grande Valley courts.
• Bilingual legal team—Hablamos Español.

Call Our Harlingen Bus Accident Attorneys Now

Bus accident cases are complex, especially when government entities are involved. Don’t wait—TTCA deadlines can be as short as 6 months.

Call (956) 368-0000 today for a free consultation with our Harlingen bus accident lawyers. Hablamos Español.