[12-19-2024] Los Angeles, CA – Seven Injured and Hospitalized After Metro Bus Collides with Lumber Truck
El Monte, Los Angeles County – An early morning crash involving a Metro bus and a lumber truck in South El Monte on Wednesday sent seven people to the hospital, according to officials.
The accident occurred around 6:20 a.m. on Rosemead Boulevard near Klingerman Street.
The bus, identified as Line 266, which serves the route between Sierra Madre and Lakewood, was being operated by a contractor, Southland Transit, a Metro representative stated.
Among those hospitalized was the bus operator, while initial reports suggested up to 12 people sustained injuries. Details about the conditions of the injured passengers have not been made public.
As authorities investigated the incident, northbound lanes of Rosemead Boulevard between Klingerman and Rush streets were closed.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is investigating to determine the cause of the crash.
Source: KTLA5
How Can You Claim Compensation if You Suffer an Accident with a Metro Bus?
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a Metro bus and suffered injuries or damages, here’s a general guide on how to pursue compensation:
1. Seek Medical Attention
- Prioritize your health and well-being by seeking immediate medical care, even if your injuries seem minor. Documentation of your injuries is critical for any claim.
2. Report the Incident
- File a report with the appropriate authorities, such as the police or transit agency, to create an official record of the accident. Request a copy of the report for your records.
3. Gather Evidence
- Collect as much evidence as possible, including:
- Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Contact information of witnesses.
- The Metro bus number, route, and operator details.
- Retain receipts or bills for medical expenses and other related costs.
4. Contact the Transit Authority
- Notify the transit agency (e.g., Metro) about the incident. Most public transit systems have specific procedures for filing claims against them. Adhere to their process and timelines.
5. File a Government Tort Claim
- Claims against public transportation entities often fall under government liability laws. This means you may need to file a government tort claim within a specific time frame (often 6 months from the date of the accident). Check with the relevant agency to confirm deadlines and requirements.
6. Consult a Lawyer
- Laws involving government entities can be complex. An experienced personal injury lawyer in California can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help maximize your compensation.
7. Determine Damages
- Calculate all your losses, including:
- Medical bills (current and future).
- Lost wages or earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage (if applicable).
8. Negotiate or Pursue Legal Action
- After filing your claim, the transit agency may offer a settlement. Review any offer carefully, preferably with legal advice, to ensure it’s fair.
- If the agency denies your claim or offers inadequate compensation, you may need to file a lawsuit.
Key Considerations:
- Government Immunity: Public transit agencies are protected by certain laws, but they can still be held accountable for negligence.
- Strict Deadlines: Missing a deadline for filing a tort claim can prevent you from pursuing compensation.
- Shared Fault: If you are partially at fault, your compensation might be reduced under comparative negligence laws.
Act quickly and seek legal assistance to ensure your rights are upheld and that you receive fair compensation. If you’re looking for an El Monte personal injury lawyer, call My Lawyer Mark at (866) 721-5808 to schedule a free consultation. If you also need a copy of your accident’s police report, you can request it for free by filling out this contact form:
