Bossier City Bus Accident Attorney

Suffered an Injury in a Collision Involving a Bus?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in Bossier City, you may be facing serious medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Bus accidents can be far more complex than standard car accidents because they often involve multiple passengers, government entities, or large corporations. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we are here to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve. When you need an experienced Bossier City bus accident lawyer, our team is ready to protect your rights.

Contact Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law to schedule a free consultation.

Common Types of Buses

Bus accidents can occur with many different types of buses. Each comes with its own risks and legal considerations:

• School Buses: These transport thousands of children every day across Bossier City and Louisiana. Because children are passengers, school bus accidents can be devastating and involve special state and federal safety laws.
• Public Transit Buses: Buses operated by city or parish transit systems are considered government entities. Filing claims against public transportation providers often requires meeting strict notice and filing deadlines.
• Charter & Tour Buses: Groups often hire charter buses for long-distance trips or tours. If an accident occurs, the bus company or its driver may be held responsible.
• Intercity Buses: Greyhound and other regional buses travel across state lines. Accidents involving these companies may fall under both state and federal jurisdiction.
• Shuttle Buses: Commonly used by hotels, casinos, and airports in the Bossier City area, shuttle buses can cause injuries if they are overcrowded, improperly maintained, or negligently operated.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

While bus drivers receive special training, accidents still happen due to negligence or unsafe conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Error – Speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or failing to follow traffic laws.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Worn-out brakes, bald tires, or mechanical failures due to lack of inspections.
• Unsafe Road Conditions – Potholes, poor signage, or construction zones can contribute to crashes.
• Overloading – Carrying too many passengers or improperly loading luggage can make buses harder to control.
• Other Drivers – Sometimes accidents are caused by cars, trucks, or motorcycles cutting off buses or driving recklessly.
• Weather Conditions – Rain, fog, or hurricanes in Louisiana can reduce visibility and traction.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we thoroughly investigate every factor that could have contributed to the accident to hold the right parties accountable.

Louisiana Bus Driving Laws

Louisiana has strict rules and regulations governing bus operations to ensure passenger safety:

• Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) – Bus drivers must hold valid CDLs with the appropriate endorsements.
• Hours of Service Rules – To prevent fatigue, drivers must comply with limits on how long they can operate without rest.
• School Bus Regulations – Louisiana law requires all drivers to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and extended stop arms.
• Inspection & Maintenance Requirements – Bus operators must perform regular inspections and maintain their vehicles in safe working condition.
• Passenger Safety Standards – Federal laws require certain safety measures, such as emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and in some cases, seat belts.

Failure to comply with these laws can be used as evidence of negligence in a bus accident case.

What to Do After a Bus Accident

If you are involved in a bus accident in Bossier City, taking the right steps is important for both your health and your legal claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
• Report the accident to the police and request a copy of the accident report.
• Gather evidence if possible—take photos, collect witness information, and note bus numbers or company names.
• Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting a lawyer.
• Contact a Bossier City bus accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Why Choose Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law?

Bus accident cases require a deep understanding of Louisiana personal injury law and, in many cases, government liability rules. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we bring years of experience handling complex accident claims. Our firm provides:

• Personalized attention and compassionate guidance
• Aggressive investigation into driver records, maintenance logs, and safety violations
• Negotiation with insurance companies to maximize compensation
• Trial-ready advocacy if your case cannot be resolved through settlement

Bus Accident FAQs

Who can be held responsible for a bus accident?

Liability may fall on the bus driver, the bus company, the manufacturer of a defective part, another driver, or even a government agency responsible for road maintenance.

What compensation can I recover after a bus accident?

You may be entitled to medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and in some cases, punitive damages.

How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Louisiana?

Louisiana law generally gives you one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Because this deadline is strict, it is important to act quickly.

Are bus accident claims different from car accident claims?

Yes. Bus accidents often involve multiple victims, larger insurance policies, and sometimes government entities, which means the claims process is more complex.

Do I need a lawyer to handle a bus accident claim?

Yes. Without an experienced attorney, you may face pressure from insurance companies to settle for less than you deserve. A lawyer ensures your rights are fully protected.

Speak with a Bossier City Bus Accident Lawyer Today

Recovering from a bus accident can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we are committed to helping victims and their families secure the justice and financial support they need.

Call (318) 633-0186 today to start your claim.