What to do if you’re involved in a Chicago bus accident

Personal Injury - March 6, 2025 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates

Bus accidents in Chicago can be devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries, financial losses, and legal questions. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, bicyclist, or driver of another vehicle involved in a bus crash, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps to take to protect yourself.

At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, our Chicago personal injury attorneys help injured victims navigate complex bus accident claims and fight for the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Chicago bus accident, here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Seek immediate medical attention

Your health and safety should be your top priority after a bus accident. Even if you feel fine, some injuries—such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms right away.

• Call 911 and report the accident.
• Request medical attention at the scene, if needed.
• Visit a doctor as soon as possible and keep all medical records.

Prompt medical care protects your health and provides critical evidence for your injury claim.

Step 2: Report the accident

After a Chicago bus accident, ensure the proper authorities document the crash.

• If you were a bus passenger – Report the accident to the bus driver, transit authority, or private bus company immediately.
• If you were in another vehicle, a pedestrian, or a cyclist – Call Chicago police to file an accident report.

Why is this important?

Under Illinois law, accidents involving injuries or significant property damage must be reported to the police. An official accident report can be vital evidence when filing an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Step 3: Gather evidence at the scene

If you are physically able, collect as much information as possible.

• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, traffic signs, and road conditions.
• Get contact information from witnesses, the bus driver, and other involved parties.
• Write down details such as the bus number, route, and company name (e.g., CTA, Pace, Greyhound, school bus, or private shuttle).

Bus accident claims often involve multiple parties, so gathering evidence early can strengthen your case.

Step 4: Determine who is liable for the bus accident

Determining liability in a Chicago bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible.

Potentially liable parties

1. The bus driver
   • If the driver was speeding, distracted, fatigued, or impaired.
   • If they ignored traffic signals or failed to yield.
2. The bus company or transit authority
   • If they failed to properly train drivers.
   • If they did not maintain the bus or conduct regular inspections.
   • For CTA accidents, liability may fall under government agency laws (Tort Immunity Act, 745 ILCS 10/).
3. Another negligent driver
   • If another motorist caused the crash by reckless driving, DUI, or running a red light.
4. The bus manufacturer or maintenance company
   • If a mechanical defect, brake failure, or tire blowout caused the accident.
5. The City of Chicago or Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)
   • If dangerous road conditions, faulty traffic signals, or poor signage contributed to the crash.

Each case is unique, and an experienced Chicago bus accident lawyer can help identify all responsible parties and maximize your compensation.

Step 5: Understand your legal rights & compensation

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescriptions)
• Lost wages (if the accident impacted your ability to work)
• Pain and suffering (physical pain, emotional trauma, PTSD)
• Property damage (if your vehicle, bicycle, or belongings were damaged)
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed in a bus accident)

Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault. Having a skilled attorney can help minimize fault and maximize recovery.

Step 6: Be cautious when dealing with insurance companies

Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim by:

• Offering a low settlement that doesn’t cover all damages.
• Pressuring you to make a recorded statement that can be used against you.
• Delaying the claim to discourage you from pursuing legal action.

DO NOT sign anything or accept a settlement offer before speaking with an attorney. At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we handle all negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Step 7: Contact a Chicago bus accident attorney

Bus accident claims involve government agencies, transit authorities, and private companies—all of which have legal teams protecting their interests. Having an experienced bus accident lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we:

• Investigate the cause of the bus accident.
• Gather evidence, police reports, and witness statements.
• Determine liability and negotiate with insurance companies.
• File lawsuits if necessary to fight for the maximum compensation.

We have over 100 years of experience handling complex personal injury cases in Illinois.

Hurt in a bus crash? We can help.

If you’ve been injured in a Chicago bus accident, knowing your rights and taking the proper steps can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Whether the accident involved a CTA bus, school bus, private shuttle, or commercial bus, you have legal options.

At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we fight for injury victims and ensure they receive justice and fair compensation. Contact us today at (800) 985-1819 for a free consultation and let our legal team handle your case while you focus on recovery.