Bus accident claims in Washington are more complex than standard car accident claims, particularly when a public transit agency is involved. As an injured passenger, you may seek recovery from those responsible, but pursuing a public agency requires a formal claim before you can sue.
A routine bus ride can end in hospitalization, months of rehabilitation, or lasting changes to your ability to work. At Stritmatter Law, we investigate who is responsible and handle the government claim requirements while you focus on your recovery.
Can I Sue Metro or Sound Transit in Seattle?
Yes. You can pursue a claim against King County Metro or Sound Transit when negligence causes your injuries. Washington law generally allows local government entities to be held liable for their wrongful conduct and their employees’ negligence while performing official duties. Public ownership does not automatically shield a transit agency from responsibility.
An injury alone does not establish liability. We investigate whether unsafe driving, inadequate maintenance, or another motorist caused the accident, along with the transit agency’s role and any contractors involved. Multiple parties may share responsibility.
Passengers injured on the Seattle Streetcar may face similar government claim requirements.
What Is the Government Claims Process in Washington?
Before filing a negligence lawsuit against a local public transit agency, you generally must present a formal tort claim to its designated claims agent. An incident report to the driver or a customer service complaint does not replace this requirement.
Under RCW 4.96.020, the claim must include information such as:
- Your identifying and contact information.
- When, where, and how the injury happened.
- A description of your injuries and the dollar amount you are claiming.
- Names and contact information for people involved, if known.
The form must also be properly signed. After presenting it, you must wait 60 calendar days before filing suit against the public entity, even if it denies your claim sooner.
Each entity that owns and/or operates public transit has its own claim form and claim submission process.
We help you address Washington’s government injury claim notice requirements and deadlines, including proper delivery and proof of receipt. Filing against the wrong entity or suing too early can put your case at risk.
How Long Do I Have to File a Bus Accident Claim?
Washington generally gives you three years to file a personal injury lawsuit based on negligence, usually measured from the accident date. Exceptions can change that timeline, so your specific deadline needs individual review.
For a claim against a local government entity, you must submit the formal tort claim before the applicable deadline expires. Washington law tolls the lawsuit deadline during the required 60-day waiting period. Settlement discussions do not, by themselves, extend your time to sue.
What If a Private Bus Company Caused My Injuries?
Claims involving privately operated charter buses or tour operators generally follow the personal injury process without the government notice requirement. We may investigate the company’s responsibility for its driver, vehicle maintenance, or unsafe operating practices.
School bus claims require closer review. A bus may belong to a public school district or be operated by a private contractor. Claims against a public district can trigger government filing requirements, while claims against a private company may follow different procedures.
How Can an Attorney Help After a Serious Bus Accident?
A serious bus accident can leave you hospitalized, unable to work, or facing a lengthy recovery. You may have little information about what happened, especially if emergency responders took you from the scene.
We can investigate the accident and seek evidence such as onboard video, driver records, and maintenance logs. We also work to document how your injuries affect your daily life and what care you may need in the future.
Take the Next Step Toward Recovery
You should not have to sort out agency responsibility and filing rules while recovering from an injury. At Stritmatter Law, we can investigate what happened, handle the claim requirements, and work to hold those responsible accountable. Contact us for a free case evaluation after a Seattle bus accident.
