Chicago Bus Accident Lawyer

Seeking Justice and Maximum Compensation for Bus Accident Victims

At our firm, we know how devastating a bus crash can be for victims and families who suffer injuries. As an experienced Chicago bus accident lawyer team, we stand with passengers, pedestrians, and motorists harmed by negligent drivers or unsafe transit operations.

Our legal team investigates the cause, holds the responsible party accountable, and helps you recover. We believe in your case and are here to help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and lost wages.

Settlements & Recovered by Our Bus Accident Lawyers in Chicago

Our firm has handled countless bus accident claims across Chicago, helping victims recover compensation after serious accidents. Each case reflects our commitment to standing with injured passengers and families seeking accountability.

$450,000 – Tour Bus Passenger Thrown from Seat

David, a passenger on a Chicago tour bus near Navy Pier, was thrown from his seat when the driver took a sharp turn too fast. He suffered a fractured wrist and concussion. Our investigation revealed driver fatigue and poor maintenance, leading to a $450,000 settlement for his medical expenses and pain and suffering.

$370,000 – CTA Passenger Injured While Exiting Bus

Michael, from Jefferson Park, injured his ankle when a CTA driver closed the doors and moved forward as he exited. Surveillance footage confirmed the driver’s recklessness, and our team secured $370,000 for his medical bills, lost wages, and lasting mobility issues.

$250,000 – School Bus Incident Involving a Child

Emma, age 9, was hurt when a school bus driver accelerated before she was seated, causing a fractured collarbone. We filed a bus accident lawsuit against the transportation contractor, resulting in a $250,000 settlement covering her medical treatment and counseling.

Why Choose Our Chicago Bus Accident Attorneys

Our top Chicago bus accident lawyers have represented more than 5,000 clients, recovered over $450 million, and maintained a 98% success rate across thousands of bus accidents and other motor vehicle accident claims.

Backed by more than 100 years of combined experience, our seasoned attorneys understand the unique challenges of cases involving bus incidents throughout Cook County. We’re available 24/7, ready to listen, guide, and stand with you whenever you need trusted legal support.

Our law firm has earned recognition, memberships, and awards from some of the most prestigious legal organizations, including:

• Million Dollar Advocates Forum
• Super Lawyers®
• American Association for Justice (AAJ)
• Illinois Trial Lawyers Association
• A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau
• Contributing Author for The National Law Review
• AVVO Rating of 10/10

Types of Chicago Bus Accident Cases We Handle

Our legal team represents victims in every type of bus crash, from minor onboard injuries to catastrophic collisions involving multiple vehicles. Below are the most common types of bus accidents we handle across Chicago and Cook County:

• Airport shuttle bus accidents at O’Hare and Midway International Airports
• Bus accidents during turns or while backing up in narrow city streets
• Bus fires or explosions resulting from mechanical or electrical failures
• Charter and tour bus accidents involving Greyhound or Megabus and other private operators
• City bus collisions with fixed objects (light poles, median barriers, or bus shelters)
• Cyclist collisions with city or university shuttle buses in bike lanes
• Fatal bus accidents resulting in wrongful death claims under 740 ILCS 180/2
• Head-on bus crashes on two-lane suburban roads
• Hit-and-run bus accidents on city streets or suburban routes
• Intersection collisions at major crossings such as Michigan Avenue or Ashland Avenue
• Lane-change or sideswipe bus accidents on Lake Shore Drive or I-90/94
• Multi-vehicle pileups involving buses during rush-hour congestion
• Passenger injuries from sudden stops, sharp turns, or onboard falls
• Party bus accidents
• Pedestrian accidents involving CTA or Pace buses at designated stops
• Rear-end bus collisions in stop-and-go downtown traffic
• Rollover accidents involving charter or tour buses on Illinois interstates
• School bus accidents involving Chicago Public Schools or suburban districts
• Single-vehicle bus crashes caused by sudden evasive maneuvers
• Transit bus accidents involving CTA or Pace vehicles

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bus Crashes in Chicago?

Understanding the causes of bus accidents is critical to determining who is legally responsible for your injuries. In Chicago, many bus crashes result from preventable human errors, poor maintenance, or systemwide failures. Our firm investigates each case thoroughly to uncover the truth and hold negligent parties accountable.

Here are some of the most common causes of bus accidents in Chicago:

• Adverse weather conditions (snow, fog, or heavy rain)
• Brake, tire, or steering component failures
• Dangerous construction zones managed by CDOT or IDOT
• Distracted driving by bus operators (phone use, passenger interaction, onboard systems)
• Employer negligence in enforcing Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and related federal regulations
• Failure to conduct regular inspections
• Faulty safety equipment (lights, mirrors, warning systems)
• Fatigued or overworked drivers on long CTA or Pace routes
• Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications)
• Inadequate driver training or certification under the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) requirements
• Inadequate signage or markings near bus stops or intersections
• Lack of proper oversight of private or school bus fleets
• Low visibility due to insufficient lighting or poor weather
• Mechanical defects or design flaws in buses
• Negligent hiring or supervision by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Pace Suburban Bus, or private carriers
• Poor road conditions (potholes, debris, or uneven pavement on city streets)
• Poor vehicle maintenance by bus companies or fleet contractors
• Unrealistic scheduling or route pressure from employers
• Violation of Illinois Vehicle Code safety provisions

What Are the Most Common Bus Accident Injuries?

When a bus crash occurs, passengers and bystanders are often left with severe injuries that require long-term care. Because buses lack seatbelts and often involve sudden impacts, people may be thrown against seats, windows, or other passengers, suffering both physical injuries and lasting emotional trauma after devastating injuries.

Some of the most common bus accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – from sudden jolts or direct head impact during collisions.
• Spinal cord injuries – resulting in partial or permanent paralysis.
• Broken bones and fractures – especially to wrists, legs, ribs, and hips.
• Internal organ damage or internal bleeding – caused by crushing forces or blunt impact.
• Neck and back injuries – such as whiplash or herniated discs from violent stops.
• Facial injuries – including lacerations, fractures, or dental trauma.
• Burns and smoke inhalation – from bus fires or mechanical failures.
• Soft-tissue injuries – including sprains, strains, and severe bruising.
• Amputations or crush injuries – often seen in pedestrian or cyclist injuries.
• Psychological trauma – including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress following catastrophic injuries.

What Damages Can Bus Accident Victims Recover in Chicago?

Victims injured in a bus crash often face a long and painful recovery. Through a bus accident lawsuit, our firm helps clients pursue full and fair compensation for all the ways their lives have been impacted. Whether you were a bus passenger, pedestrian, or motorist struck by a bus, Illinois law allows you to seek damages for both economic and non-economic losses.

Common recoverable damages include:

• Medical expenses – hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost wages – income lost during recovery or due to long-term work restrictions.
• Loss of earning capacity – when serious or permanent disabilities limit future employment.
• Pain and suffering – for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Property damage – repairs or replacement costs for other vehicles or personal property.
• Rehabilitation and assistive devices – including mobility aids, therapy costs, or home modifications.
• Emotional distress – trauma, anxiety, or psychological harm following the crash.
• Wrongful death damages – funeral costs, lost support, and companionship in fatal accident.

What Is the Average Bus Accident Case Worth in Chicago?

The value of a bus incident claim depends on multiple factors. In Chicago, recent data shows an average settlement of $781,317, a median of $210,115, and a range from $14,537 to $5,550,000.

Key factors that influence the payout amount include:

• Severity of injuries and required medical care
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Strength of negligence or liability evidence
• Whether a private company or state entity operated the bus
• The victim’s long-term recovery and emotional impact

Example Bus Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$734,000 – Passenger Thrown from Seat

A passenger suffered a severe heel fracture after being thrown upward when a CTA bus hit a bump too quickly on Adams Street. The case focused on whether the driver was negligent in maintaining a safe speed through a rough section of roadway.

$450,000 – Pedestrian Run Over by Bus

A woman suffered multiple leg fractures and a degloving injury when a CTA bus moved forward as she tried to board near Michigan Avenue. The claim alleged the driver failed to check mirrors and ensure the area was clear before pulling away.

$270,230 – Passenger Dragged by Bus Door

A disabled passenger’s arm became trapped in the closing doors of a CTA bus and she was dragged several feet down 79th Street, resulting in a torn rotator cuff and nerve damage. The case turned on video evidence and driver oversight.

Why You Need a Chicago Bus Accident Attorney

Bus crash cases in Chicago are often complex, involving multiple parties such as the CTA, Pace, school districts, or private bus operators. Each operates under different liability standards, notice requirements, and legal protections.

Filing a lawsuit for a bus accident in Chicago means navigating both state and municipal laws, often in courts like the Circuit Court of Cook County, where government agencies are defended by experienced counsel.

An experienced team understands how to gather key evidence, such as driver logs, surveillance footage, and maintenance records, and build a case that meets the strict procedural rules governing claims against public transportation systems.

How Common Are Bus Crashes in Chicago?

Recent bus accident statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation show that in 2023, there were 1,862 crashes involving buses with more than 15 seats across Chicago. These collisions resulted in:

• 386 injury crashes
• 144 people seriously injured
• 19 fatalities

When smaller vehicles (buses with 9 to 15 seats) are included, the total rises to 2,505 bus-related crashes, with 92 additional injury crashes and 2 more fatalities reported.

Where Do Bus Crashes Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Most bus accidents in Chicago happen along the city’s busiest commuter corridors and intersections. High-traffic areas like Michigan Avenue, Ashland Avenue, Western Avenue, and Lake Shore Drive see frequent CTA bus collisions, especially during rush hour. Crashes are also common near Union Station, Navy Pier, and major transfer points such as Jackson Boulevard and State Street.

Suburban routes involving Pace buses often experience accidents on I-90/94, I-290, and Harlem Avenue, while school bus accidents frequently occur near Chicago Public Schools campuses and residential pickup zones. Many cases we handle involve multiple parties, CTA operators, private bus operators, or airport shuttle services at O’Hare and Midway International Airports.

What Illinois Laws Govern Bus Accident Claims?

Bus accident claims in Chicago are guided by Illinois statutes, municipal codes, and case law, depending on which bus company operates the bus and where the crash occurred. All bus drivers must comply with the Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/), which governs safe driving, licensing, and maintenance standards as well as applicable traffic laws.

Under the Chicago Municipal Code, operators must follow safety provisions such as:

• § 9-12-060 – Only authorized buses may use bus lanes.
• § 9-36-050 – Drivers must stop for school buses displaying stop signals.
• § 9-48-050 – Buses must pick up and drop off passengers only at designated stops.

When it comes to accidents involving private vs government entities, the rules differ. Cases against the CTA or other public systems fall under the Illinois Tort Immunity Act (745 ILCS 10/), which limits damages and shortens filing deadlines. Still, in cases like Wallace v. CTA (2016), the court confirmed the agency can be liable for negligent bus operators.

By contrast, private bus companies, including charter, tour, or airport shuttle services, are classified as common carriers, held to a higher duty of care, and can be sued directly for negligence without the immunity protections that shield government entities. When the negligent driver is a private company’s employee, liability can extend to the employer under respondeat superior.

How Long Do Victims Have to File a Bus Accident Lawsuit in Illinois?

In most Chicago bus incident cases, victims have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. This applies to claims involving negligence of the bus driver, bus company liability, or other motorists involved in the collision.

For minors injured in a bus accident or struck as pedestrians, the two-year period is paused until the child turns 18, giving them until their 20th birthday to bring a claim.

When the crash involves the CTA, a school bus operated by a public district, or another government entity, the timeline is shorter. A Notice of Claim generally must be filed within one year of the accident.

In cases involving a fatal crash, surviving family members, such as a spouse, parent, or child, may file a wrongful death lawsuit within two years of the date of death, as allowed under 740 ILCS 180/2.

Who Is Legally Liable for Bus Accidents in Chicago?

Liability in a bus accident depends on who caused or contributed to the crash. Potential defendants may include:

• Bus drivers – for negligent driving, distraction, speeding, or fatigue.
• The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) – when a CTA bus operator acts negligently while on duty.
• Private bus companies – for unsafe hiring practices, poor maintenance, or mechanical failure.
• School districts or transportation contractors – when school bus accidents result from inadequate training or supervision.
• Bus manufacturers or maintenance providers – if a defective part or improper repair caused the crash.
• Other motorists – when other drivers cause or contribute to a multi-vehicle bus accident.
• Government entities – for hazardous road conditions or poor traffic signal maintenance.

Common Defenses Following Bus Crashes

Defendants in bus incident cases often raise similar arguments to avoid paying compensation. Our firm knows how to counter each one. Common defenses include:

• Driver Denies Negligence: We use witness statements, surveillance video, and inspection records to prove fault.
• Comparative Fault: If they blame the victim, we show clear evidence of the driver’s negligent behavior and safe conduct by our client.
• Mechanical Failure: When bus companies blame parts, we uncover poor maintenance and ignored repair warnings.
• Sudden Emergency: We show the driver failed to react appropriately or follow training.
• Government Immunity: When agencies like the CTA claim protection, we prove exceptions apply and file all notices on time.

How to Strengthen Your Chicago Bus Accident Claim

After a bus crash, what you do next can make a major difference in your claim:

• Call 911 and request an official police report.
• Seek immediate medical care, even for minor injuries.
• Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
• Collect witness information and contact details.
• Avoid speaking to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer.
• Contact an experienced attorney to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

How Our Law Firm Can Help You File a Personal Injury Claim

Unlike a typical personal injury claim, a bus case often involves multiple entities and unique procedural rules. Our law firm manages every part of your civil claim so you can focus on healing. We:

• Investigate the crash and gather key evidence.
• Obtain surveillance footage and interview witnesses.
• Consult experts to prove driver negligence or mechanical failure.
• Negotiate with insurance companies and bus companies to reach fair settlements.
• Litigate in the Cook County Circuit Court, if necessary.
• Seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

FAQs

How much does a Chicago bus accident attorney cost?

Our personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, along with a free consultation, meaning you pay nothing up front. We only collect a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you through a settlement or verdict.

Who can file a bus accident claim in Illinois?

Any person injured in a bus crash, including injured bus passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, or occupants of other vehicles, may file a civil lawsuit if negligence by a bus driver, transit authority, or private company caused their injuries.

Can injured bus drivers seek compensation?

Yes. Bus drivers who are employees can pursue workers’ compensation benefits for medical bills and lost wages. They may also file a third-party lawsuit against negligent drivers, contractors, or manufacturers, so long as they are less than 50% at fault for the accident.

Consult a Chicago Bus Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you or a loved one were hurt and suffered a serious injury in a bus accident in Chicago, you don’t have to face it alone. Our Chicago motor vehicle accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights, investigate the crash, and fight for justice.

We offer a free consultation, and you pay nothing unless we win, because our cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. Contact us today to speak with a dedicated attorney and take the first step toward recovery.