Buses move thousands of people through Broomfield every day. RTD transit buses, school buses, and charter coaches share our roads with other vehicles. When these large vehicles crash, the results can be devastating, including severe injuries and huge costs.
At Goldman & Haydel Personal Injury Lawyers, we represent people hurt in bus accidents in Broomfield and throughout Colorado. Managing attorney Scott Goldman brings years of trial experience to every case. He understands the complex laws that govern bus accidents and knows how to hold negligent bus companies accountable.
If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident, call us at (720) 571-0606 for a free consultation.
Bus Accident Prevalence in Colorado and Broomfield
Bus accidents happen more often than most people realize. For instance, data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) show that in 2024 alone, Colorado had 197 bus crashes. That’s nearly one bus accident every two days. These resulted in 94 injuries and 4 fatalities.
Nationwide, buses are involved in serious crashes regularly. According to the National Safety Council, 128 people died in school bus-related crashes in 2023. That’s a 23% jump from the previous year. About 68% of those deaths were occupants of other vehicles, not the bus itself.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that school buses are among the safest vehicles on the road, yet their passengers and drivers can still suffer fatal injuries. In 2023 alone, 13 occupants of school transportation died in crashes in the US.
Types of Bus Accidents We Handle in Broomfield
The law firm of Goldman & Haydel represents clients injured in all types of bus accidents:
RTD Transit Bus Accidents
Colorado’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) buses serve Broomfield with regular routes connecting to Denver and Boulder. When RTD buses crash due to driver negligence or poor bus maintenance, we help injured passengers pursue compensation. These cases often involve government entity claims with strict notice requirements.
School Bus Accidents
Children riding to school deserve safe transportation. We represent families when school bus crashes cause injuries or fatalities. These cases can involve the school district, private bus companies, or other negligent drivers.
Charter and Tour Bus Crashes
Private bus companies operate charter services for sports teams, church groups, and tours. When these buses crash, multiple passengers can be hurt. We investigate whether the company failed to properly maintain vehicles or hire qualified drivers.
Airport Shuttle and Hotel Bus Accidents
Private shuttles transport passengers between Denver International Airport, hotels, and Broomfield businesses. Crashes involving these vehicles can result from driver fatigue, distraction, or unsafe driving practices.
Interstate Bus Carriers
Greyhound and other interstate carriers pass through Colorado on I-25 and other highways. Federal regulations govern these buses, but crashes can occur in Colorado areas. We hold these companies responsible when they violate safety standards.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Broomfield
Bus accidents happen for many reasons. Our investigation focuses on identifying what went wrong and who is responsible.
Driver Error and Negligence
Bus drivers must follow strict safety rules. When they drive too fast, make unsafe lane changes, or fail to pay attention, crashes can result. We examine driver training records, employment history, and compliance with hours-of-service rules.
Driver Fatigue
Long shifts and demanding schedules can lead to exhausted drivers. Federal law limits how long drivers can work without rest. When companies ignore these rules or pressure drivers to skip breaks, fatigue-related crashes become more likely.
Distracted Driving
Bus drivers face many distractions. Passengers, navigation systems, two-way radios, and mobile devices can all pull attention from the road. Even a few seconds of distraction at highway speed can cause a serious crash.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Buses require regular inspections and maintenance. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering problems often trace back to skipped maintenance. We review maintenance records to determine if the bus company cut corners on safety.
Inadequate Driver Training
Operating a large bus requires skill and proper training. Some companies hire inexperienced drivers or fail to provide adequate training. This puts everyone on the road at risk.
Other Motorist Negligence
Many bus accidents happen because other drivers cut off buses, run red lights, or make illegal turns. We investigate all parties involved to ensure our clients receive full compensation.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Poor road design, inadequate signage, or hazardous conditions can contribute to bus crashes. When government entities fail to maintain safe roads, they may share liability for resulting injuries.
Colorado Laws That Apply to Bus Accident Cases
Bus accident claims in Colorado involve specific laws that don’t apply to regular car accidents. Understanding these laws is crucial to protecting your rights.
Common Carrier Law in Colorado
Under Colorado Revised Statutes 40-9-102, buses are common carriers. This means they owe passengers a heightened duty of care beyond what regular drivers must provide. Common carriers must exercise the highest degree of care to protect passenger safety.
This higher standard makes it easier to prove negligence against bus companies. They can’t just meet ordinary safety standards. They must go above and beyond to prevent injuries.
Statute of Limitations for Bus Accident Claims
Colorado gives you three years to file a lawsuit for injuries from a motor vehicle accident. This deadline comes from Colorado Revised Statutes 13-80-101. However, claims against government entities like RTD or school districts have much shorter deadlines.
Government Entity Claims
When your bus accident involves RTD, a school district, or another government agency, special rules apply. You must file a notice of claim within 182 days of your injury. Missing this deadline can destroy your right to compensation forever.
This notice must include specific information about your injuries, how the accident happened, and the compensation you’re seeking. The government then has 90 days to respond. Only after this process can you file a lawsuit.
Multiple Liable Parties
Bus accidents often involve several potentially liable parties. The bus driver, bus company, maintenance provider, vehicle manufacturer, and other motorists could all share responsibility. State law allows us to pursue claims against all responsible parties, particularly under Colorado Revised Statutes section 13-21-111.5 and Colorado Civil Jury Instructions Chapter 9.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
Interstate buses must comply with federal safety regulations. These rules cover driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and drug testing. When companies violate 49 CFR Part 386, we use those violations as evidence of negligence.
Injuries We See in Bus Accident Cases
Bus crashes cause serious injuries. Passengers have no seat belts, airbags, or crumple zones to protect them. When a bus suddenly stops or crashes, passengers get thrown around the interior.
Head and Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are common in bus crashes. Passengers hit their heads on seats, windows, or the floor. These injuries can cause memory loss, personality changes, and permanent cognitive problems.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a bus crash can damage the spine. Herniated discs, fractures, and spinal cord damage can result. Some victims face paralysis and lifelong disability.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Bus passengers often suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, and hips. These fractures require surgery, extended recovery, and sometimes permanent medical hardware.
Internal Injuries
Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs. Internal bleeding, organ damage, and abdominal injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can be life-threatening.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash, muscle tears, and ligament damage are common. These injuries cause chronic pain and can limit your ability to work or enjoy daily activities.
Psychological Trauma
The emotional impact of a bus crash shouldn’t be ignored. Many victims develop PTSD, anxiety, or depression. Children involved in school bus accidents may fear riding buses again.
Compensation Available in Bus Accident Cases
Colorado law allows you to recover several types of damages after a bus accident:
Economic Damages
These cover your financial losses:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, and rehabilitation
- Future medical costs for ongoing treatment and therapy
- Lost wages from time off work
- Loss of earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job
- Property damage to personal belongings
- Home modifications if you have permanent disabilities
- Cost of assistive devices like wheelchairs or walkers.
Non-Economic Damages
These cover non-financial losses that the law recognizes as compensable:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish or emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disfigurement or scarring
- Loss of consortium for your spouse.
Under Colorado law, non-economic damages in most personal injury cases filed on or after January 1, 2025, are capped (limited) at $1.5 million. This limit is set to increase every subsequent two years. The cap can also be increased in cases involving particularly severe injuries.
Wrongful Death Damages
If your loved one died in a bus accident, you may recover:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills from final treatment
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Pain and suffering your loved one experienced before death.
For wrongful death cases filed after January 1, 2025, non-economic damages are capped at $2.125 million.
Steps to Take After a Bus Accident in Broomfield
Your actions after a bus accident can affect your legal claim.
1. Get Medical Help Immediately
Your health comes first. Even if you feel okay, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Medical records also document the connection between the accident and your injuries.
2. Report the Accident
Make sure the bus company or school district knows about the accident. For RTD buses, report it to RTD. For school buses, notify the school district. Get a copy of any accident report.
3. Document Everything
If you’re able:
- Take photos of the accident scene, bus damage, and your injuries.
- Get contact information from other passengers and witnesses.
- Note the bus number, route, and driver’s name.
- Keep all medical bills, prescriptions, and treatment records.
- Track time off work and other expenses.
4. Preserve Evidence
Don’t discard damaged clothing or personal items. These can serve as evidence. Request preservation of surveillance footage before it’s deleted.
5. Avoid Giving Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly. Be polite but don’t give recorded statements or sign anything without talking to a lawyer first. They’re looking for ways to reduce your claim.
6. Contact a Broomfield Bus Accident Lawyer
Call us at Goldman & Haydel as soon as possible. The earlier we get involved, the better we can protect your rights and preserve evidence. Remember, you may be up against companies or agencies that have the capacity to defend themselves right away.
Why Choose Goldman & Haydel Personal Injury Lawyers
Our firm stands out in the crowded field of Colorado personal injury lawyers. Here’s why:
Experience That Matters
Managing attorney Scott Goldman brings extensive trial experience to every bus accident case. He founded Goldman & Haydel on the principle that everyone deserves professional and ethical representation. Scott has handled complex personal injury cases throughout Colorado and knows how to navigate the legal system.
Attesting to his legal excellence, Scott has been named among The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and among the Lawyers of Distinction. He earned his JD from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School and his LLM in Taxation from the University of Denver. He’s admitted to practice in Colorado state courts and the U.S. District Court of Colorado.
Proven Track Record
Our clients’ testimonials speak to our commitment:
“Scott Goldman handled my case with utmost care and professionalism. He was approachable and very reliable throughout the process. He responded to all my emails promptly regardless of when I sent them. I would get responses from Scott even during the weekends.”
“Outstanding law firm that has represented me on several different cases throughout the years. Mark Haydel was excellent to work with, knowledgeable, and passionate about his work. He was able to obtain the best possible judgment for me, and more than once.”
Top-Rated Reputation
We maintain:
- Superb 10/10 rating on AVVO
- BBB A+ Rating
- Lead Counsel verified status
- Strong reputation with all Colorado courts.
No Upfront Costs
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us nothing unless we win your case. This further means everyone can afford quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Personalized Attention
We limit our caseload to ensure every client gets the attention they deserve. You’ll work directly with experienced attorneys, not paralegals or junior staff. We provide regular updates and honest assessments of your case.
How We Handle Bus Accident Cases
At Goldman & Haydel, our approach to bus accident cases is thorough and client-focused. Here’s what we can do for you when you work with us:
Free Initial Consultation
We start with a detailed consultation to understand what happened and how it affected you. We’ll review any evidence you have and explain your legal options. This consultation costs you nothing.
Comprehensive Investigation
We immediately begin investigating your accident. This includes:
- Obtaining police reports and accident reconstruction analysis
- Gathering surveillance footage from the bus and nearby cameras
- Interviewing witnesses and passengers
- Reviewing the bus company’s maintenance records
- Examining driver logs and employment files
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
- Analyzing the bus’s electronic data recorder (black box).
Identifying All Liable Parties
Bus accidents can involve multiple responsible parties:
- The bus driver
- The bus company or school district
- Maintenance contractors
- Vehicle manufacturers (if defective parts caused the crash)
- Other motorists
- Government entities responsible for road maintenance.
We pursue claims against everyone who contributed to your injuries.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Bus companies and government entities have large insurance policies and teams of lawyers. They may try to minimize your claim or deny responsibility. We handle all communication with insurance adjusters and won’t let them take advantage of you.
Fighting for Maximum Compensation
We thoroughly document your damages:
- Medical records and expert testimony about your injuries
- Employment records and expert analysis of lost earning capacity
- Day-in-the-life videos showing how injuries affect you
- Testimony from family members about changes in your life.
Trial-Ready Representation
Most personal injury cases settle without going to court, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies can see we’re willing and able to go to court. This strengthens our negotiating position and often leads to better settlement offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Accident Claims
How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Colorado?
For most bus accidents, you have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. However, if the bus is owned by a government entity like RTD or a school district, you must file a notice of claim within 182 days. Missing these deadlines can destroy your right to compensation.
What if the bus driver says the accident was my fault?
Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover compensation as long as you’re less than 50% responsible. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Can I sue if I was riding a school bus?
Yes. School bus passengers can file claims against negligent drivers, school districts, or other responsible parties. Special rules apply to government entities, including shorter notice requirements.
What if the bus company offers me a settlement?
Don’t accept any settlement without consulting a lawyer. Early settlement offers are usually far less than your claim is worth. Once you accept, you can’t ask for more money later, even if your injuries get worse.
How much is my bus accident case worth?
Every case is different. The value depends on your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and how the accident affects your life. We’ll thoroughly evaluate your damages and fight for maximum compensation.
Do I need a lawyer for a bus accident claim?
Bus accident cases involve complex legal issues, multiple liable parties, and well-funded opposition. Having an experienced lawyer can dramatically increase your chances of fair compensation. We handle the legal complexity while you focus on recovery.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
We at Goldman & Haydel work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront costs and no fees unless we win your case. Legal representation is available regardless of your financial situation.
Can I file a claim if a family member died in a bus accident?
Yes. Colorado law allows certain family members to file wrongful death claims. You must act quickly, as wrongful death claims have a two-year statute of limitations.
Contact Our Broomfield Bus Accident Lawyers Today
Bus accidents cause serious injuries that can change your life forever. You deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But getting fair compensation means fighting against bus companies, insurance companies, or government entities with teams of lawyers.
Goldman & Haydel Personal Injury Lawyers levels the playing field. Managing attorney Scott Goldman has the trial experience and legal knowledge to take on the toughest opponents. Our top-rated law firm has helped countless Coloradans recover the compensation they deserve. Our clients appreciate our responsive communication, thorough preparation, and commitment to their best interests.
Don’t wait to protect your rights. Government entity claims require notice within 182 days. Evidence disappears. Witnesses’ memories fade. The sooner we start working on your case, the better we can serve you.
Call Goldman & Haydel Personal Injury Lawyers at (720) 571-0606 for a free consultation. We serve Broomfield and all of Colorado. No fees unless we win.
