At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman in Portland, Oregon, we understand that bus transit is a lifeline for many. Every weekday, according to their latest passenger count statistics, our area residents take nearly 317,000 trips on TriMet buses for work, school, shopping, services, and recreation.
Our city buses are generally economical and reliable resources for passengers from all walks of life who count on mass transit to travel safely to their destinations, whether they use the bus every day, once a week, or for easy access to special events without massive parking fees.
Unfortunately, as Portland bus accident lawyers, we have handled many cases where mass transit has left our residents injured, out of work, and with more questions than answers regarding who can be held liable for their damages.
With more than three decades of personal injury experience, we try to recover compensation for our bus collision clients and are available to review your claim for a free consultation.
As a parent, putting your child on a school bus can be stressful. You are forced to place a great deal of faith into the hands of the school and the school bus driver. Unfortunately, safety can be an issue. School bus accidents do happen. According to data from the National Safety Council (NSC), there were more than 100 people killed in school bus accidents nationwide in 2022 alone. Eight of those people were school bus passengers. An estimated 12,500 people were hurt in school bus accidents. Nearly half of those injured were school bus passengers.
Buses contracted for high school/college sports and/or other events
Other vans or buses used for workers, clubs, and church groups
Depending on the nature of the accident, personal injuries can occur to passengers and non-passengers alike, including other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists who are traveling alongside these large transit vehicles.
Determining the cause of the crash, and who is at fault, will require the help of an experienced Portland bus accident attorney, so you are not left paying for your medical expenses and lost wages out of pocket.
Know the Steps to Take after a School Bus Accident in Portland, OR
School bus accidents are challenging for parents. It is scary to find out that your child’s school bus was involved in an accident—especially if it is a serious crash. Knowing the appropriate steps to take immediately after such an incident can help ensure the safety of all involved and facilitate the necessary follow-up actions. Here are the steps that parents should take:
Ensure Your Child’s Safety: Immediately after being notified of the accident, confirm your child’s safety. Thereafter, contact the school and/or the local authorities to get accurate information about the incident and the details of what happened.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if your child appears fine, they should be checked out by a medical doctor.. Many injuries, like concussions, may not be immediately apparent. It is wise to have a doctor evaluate them as soon as possible. Not only is it important that your child gets care for their own health and well-being, but medical records are necessary to support any legal claim.
Document the Incident: Gather all possible information about the accident. Along with other things, key details include the location, time, cause of the accident, and contact information of witnesses. If you can, you should take photographs of the accident site. The more information that you have, the better.
Seek Professional Legal Representation: School bus accidents can involve multiple legal complexities, including personal injury claims and dealing with school district liabilities. The sooner you speak to an experienced Portland bus accident lawyer, the better. Your attorney will protect your rights and your interests.
What are the Most Common Causes of Bus Crashes in Portland, Oregon?
Most bus crashes are caused by the careless or negligent behavior of either the bus driver or another vehicle’s driver.
That can include:
Stopping in bus lanes
Suddenly changing driving lanes
Swerving into traffic
Colliding with pedestrians or bicyclists
Traveling at high speeds
Operating their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Driving distracted by cellphones, GPS devices, or other electronics
Fatigued driving
Inexperienced or poorly trained bus drivers
Driver error whether that of the bus driver or another’s vehicle’s operator may be the most common cause of traffic collisions in Portland, but they are not the only reason these large vehicles are involved in crashes that cause injuries. The truth is, bus collisions can be complex, and require extensive investigative research to isolate the cause and the responsible parties.
Public Bus Accidents vs Private Bus Accidents: What You Need to Know
In Oregon, the legal implications for accidents involving public buses differ significantly from those involving private buses. Here are key points bus accident victims should know:
Liability Laws
Public Buses: Public bus services in Oregon are often operated by government entities such as city or county transit authorities. As such, they are considered public utilities. Claims against them involve sovereign immunity—which can limit or alter the standard procedures for filing a lawsuit, and may require what’s called a Tort Claim Notice to be filed within 180 days of the event.
Private Buses: Private bus companies, such as tour buses or charter buses, are governed by different regulations. These companies are commercial entities and do not benefit from sovereign immunity. The legal process can be more straightforward. With that being said, it may still be challenging to navigate without a lawyer’s help.
Insurance Coverage
Public Buses: Public buses typically have substantial insurance policies due to the higher number of passengers and the greater potential for significant claims. Oregon law requires that public transportation entities maintain higher levels of insurance.
Private Buses: The insurance for private buses can vary significantly depending on the specific company and the scope of their operation. Oregon mandates minimum insurance requirements—but companies may carry more than the minimum coverage.
Regulatory Oversight
Public Buses: Public transportation is heavily regulated for safety and compliance. In Oregon, public buses must adhere to strict state and federal regulations, which include regular maintenance and safety checks.
Private Buses: While also regulated, private bus operations may have more variability in compliance due to the differing scales of operation. However, they must still meet safety standards that protect passengers and the public.
How Long Do You Have to File a Bus Accident Claim in Oregon?
In Oregon, there is typically a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims (some narrow exceptions might apply).. A bus accident claim is generally subject to this two-year statute of limitations. Do not fall behind in the claims process: Consult with a Portland bus accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Less Time for Public Bus Accident Claims: In Oregon, you must file a Tort Claim Notice (which is just a notice of your intent to bring a claim) within 180 days of the accident. It is a crucial step, as failing to meet this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation later. The notice of claim is a preliminary step before filing a lawsuit. Among other things, it must detail the circumstances of the accident, the nature of your injuries, and the damages you are claiming. A Portland lawyer with experience handling public bus accident claims can help to protect your rights and your interests.
Why Trust the Portland Bus Accident Attorney at The Law Offices of Jon Friedman?
Are you preparing to bring a bus accident claim? Whether a private bus accident, a public bus accident, a school bus accident, or any other type of case, it is imperative that you have strong and experienced legal representation. At The Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we go above and beyond to fight for justice for victims and families. Our decades of experience and our client testimonials tell the story best. When you contact us at our Portland law office, you will connect with an Oregon bus accident lawyer who can:
Listen to your story and answer questions about your case;
Investigate your Portland bus accident—gathering evidence to prove fault;
Handle the legal paperwork and represent you in settlement negotiations and or trial if necessary; and
Develop a personalized strategy focused on maximizing your financial recovery.
Portland Bus Accident Lawsuits May Involve More than One Liable Party
With different variations of buses operating on our city streets and interstates, assessing the at-fault party may be harder than citing the bus driver for speeding. Many parties may be responsible for the collision, based on their involvement with the bus operator.
They can include, but are not limited to the bus:
Owner
Operating or management company
Bus or parts manufacturer
Maintenance crews
Bus accident lawsuits can be complicated and require consulting with Portland bus accident attorneys who have experience in overseeing multi-party claims and can pinpoint the origin of the collision — including something seemingly as simple as the bus administrators failing to conduct the necessary background checks on their drivers.
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman, we have the resources to examine your bus crash injuries, so you can focus on healing while we pursue the liable party or combination of parties for the best outcome for your unique claim.
Partnering with the Right Portland Bus Accident Lawyer
Bus accidents can result in serious injuries and extensive damages that must be fully calculated by an experienced attorney to ensure no detail is left to chance during your evaluation.
That may include pursuing compensation for your:
Immediate and future medical costs
Lost wages or other forms of income due to time off work
Loss of future income as a result of diminished ability, physical or mental impairment
Punitive damages, if the accident is proven to be the result of careless or negligent driving
Lifetime care and support in the event of a very serious injury such as traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage
Call Our Experienced Portland Bus Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
If you have been hurt by a Portland bus accident lawyer, contact our Multnomah County and Portland personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Jon Friedman today by calling 503-242-1440 for a free confidential assessment of your claim.
If you were onboard any type of bus when an accident occurred, your name likely appears on the police report, or manifests, or investigation paperwork, or other documents that can lead the bus company, or their insurance company or lawyers directly to you. This means they may call to learn your side of what happened during the crash. Do not agree to give any statement to them, or agree to sign any forms without speaking with a skilled bus accident attorney in Portland first. We can help provide a bigger picture of your case, so you can make informed legal decisions going forward.
When bus accidents occur, it may be the fault of a third party, which could include another driver who crashed into the bus. Partnering with an experienced bus accident attorney in Oregon will help you understand who was liable for the crash, and whether there is more than one party that may be pursued for damages. We can help you understand your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome for your unique case.
The first thing a Portland bus accident lawyer will do is help you understand whether your situation is a case. Next, the law firm will determine which driver, company, or other entity is liable for your damages before plotting the best legal approach to achieve a fair and just financial outcome for your case. Once we know you have a case, we will get to work on reviewing the accident scene, identifying and interviewing witnesses from the crash site, and partnering with expert witnesses who can help outline fault and your physical injuries and how they have impacted your daily activities and overall quality of life.
Like most passengers, bus passengers have an expectation that the driver of the vehicle they are in will operate it with care and ensure their safe arrival. This typically means bus passengers are engaged in other activities to pass the time, like reading a newspaper, catching up on emails, or simply daydreaming during their journey. This means, when a crash occurs, it could be hard for the passengers to know exactly what happened, how hurt they are, or what their next steps should be.
The police report may contain statements from the drivers, eyewitnesses, and passengers, or cite a liable party because they ran a stop light or were driving impaired. However, police reports alone will not resolve the legal issues. This is why it is important to partner with experienced bus accident attorneys in Portland to fully investigate the crash, the evidence available, and all factors associated with the collision.
If your child was injured while on a school bus, the public school or its district may be responsible for the negligence of the school bus driver. This investigation may involve a municipal or state agency, which typically requires our bus accident attorneys to file a claim notice within 180 days of the crash. If the bus is operated by a private school, or a private third party, the claim will unfold differently, based on applicable law. We can help you determine who, or what entity is liable for your damages.
Since many buses are owned by the city or government, the time frame to get actual notice to the responsible party may be 180 days from the date of the incident and then you have two years from the date of the wreck to file suit or resolve this case. If the bus involved in the accident is not a government owned or operated bus, you have the regular two years from the date of the accident to file, and there is usually no need to file a tort claim notice.
You should operate as if no one else has filed the police report and file one yourself. It is important to have a police report. Don’t assume the bus driver will call the police.
Yes, you must have valid driver’s license as well as a commercial driver’s license. School bus drivers must also pass multiple written tests, a physical, drug test, and do behind the wheel training.
If your child was injured on a school bus they are unable to file their own claim as they are a minor. You are able to file a bus accident claim on their behalf and hire an Oregon bus accident lawyer to take over the case.
Jon and his staff were incredibly professional, respectful and fought hard for me and my case. Not only did they help me navigate this incredibly complicated process but I felt that Jon and the people he works with legitimately took my wellbeing seriously and made sure I understood and was on board at every juncture. Regardless of the roadblocks that...
- Mike V.
Mr. Friedman is an excellent attorney and his guidance and responsiveness was not only helpful but above and beyond the service I expected. Jon and his team are outstanding and highly recommend.
- Aaron L.
When I first contacted Jon Friedman, he was very patient and listened to every word I told him about my fall and injuries. He asked questions and seemed genuinely concerned about me and asked if I had been seen for my injuries. I had been seen initially, however, I didn't have insurance to continue treatment, so Jon helped in guiding...
- Jena L.
A friend of mine recommended Jon, after hearing I had been in an auto accident. From our first phone call, through the consultation, all the way to the end, Jon was professional, affable and on top of everything. He urged me to advocate for myself when visiting doctors to make sure I received the proper care and frequently checked in...
- Cher M.
I was involved in a motorcycle accident back in 2019 and needed legal council to proceed towards addressing financial hardships and guidance. I looked up several lawyers online and Jon was the one who I felt had the knowledge, experience, and personality that could really help with my case. Jon was with me from the first day I called him...
- Bradley L.
I highly recommend Jon Friedman to anyone who is looking for legal representation. After getting injured in an accident, I needed someone who would provide guidance in an unfamiliar and extremely stressful to me situation. I couldn't have asked for a better representative and advisor than Jon. He expertly took over the unpleasant business of dealing with multiple agencies and...
- Natalya W.
Jon & his staff were straight-forward, speedy & reliable when helping us win our personal injury case. Jon was willing to take the extra time needed to explain each step in the legal process, in terms we could understand. My case revolved around my young daughter, whom Jon treated delicately & with a father's sensitivity. I truly feel that protecting...
- Erin B.
Care and Compassion may be unusual adjectives to describe an attorney, but combine that with Expertise and Advocacy, and you have Jon Friedman! Jon is an incredible lawyer who knows the ins and outs of Personal Injury cases. Jon is diligent in his advocacy of client rights and is invested in the outcome of his clients. I was in an...
- Steph H.
Excellent lawyer, but even better person. Jon came very highly recommended, but still managed to exceed all expectations. He provided expert legal advice in connection with a motor vehicle accident I was involved in that ultimately required neck surgery. Jon is an open and honest, no-nonsense lawyer that truly cares about his clients. He was extremely responsive, always available, and...
- P Hayes
Most of the times there is nothing good you could say about an accident, however, in my case there was one good thing and it was that I got to have the guidance and support of this Lawyer, Jon. I did not at any point feel alone throughout this whole 2 year process. His professionalism was impeccable at every moment....
- Sandra J.
Jon was a huge help in navigating the ins and outs of my car accident. I would retain his legal services if needed in the future and recommend him. Thanks again Jon for all the help.
- Thomas
When I was seriously injured in a pedestrian vs. automobile accident I didnt know what to do. The medical bills were going to be stacking up, which I couldn't afford, and I did nothing wrong. I did some searching and found Jon. After meeting with him he immediately took charge of my case and everything was taken care of from...
- Tony L.
Thank you Jon for helping me.
- Jeanne G.
Jon is great! He has helped my family through some tough times. He is a tireless advocate and won't give up until he can find a solution. Jon communicates every step of the way through the legal process and always involved us in all the major decisions. He helped us navigate the confusing legal world. We would highly recommend him...
- Liz K.
Jon is amazing. So much so that I have hired him TWICE. Being in an accident SUCKS. The insurance company-- even your own company-- is out for them, and them only. You need someone to fight for you. That's Jon. He doesn't just sit back and collect... he WORKS for you. Fights for you. And is so proactive. He hires...
- Katie B.
Jon Friedman is very good at what he does. Jon was very patient, professional, and responsive when he helped me with a recent MVA. Jon explained the process well and made sure I always involved and informed. I highly recommend Jon Friedman and would used him again in a heartbeat. Thank you Jon!
- Anonymous
Jon was caring, knowledgable, and worked hard to represent me with my injury claim. Would certainly recommend him to others. I now have peace of mind and can go on with my life. Dorothy
- Dorothy M.
Jon was the best support I could have had through two long years. Sometimes I'd just want to give up. He'd stop, explain what I had to do and why; the process wouldn't look so daunting. I've been around personal injury cases for decades. I've never seen a lawyer who is better at helping people through the parts of the...
- Darlene W.
Over 25 years ago my husband was in an accident. Jon won him an outstanding settlement. Fast forward. I am in an accident. We didn't know who to call until we remembered Jon. I called him and once again he came through. We just settled my claim last week and it was everything that we had asked for. I would...
- Lorrie
I didn't realize I needed the services of an attorney until it was almost too late to make a claim. Jon made sure everything was completed quickly and smoothly and his compassion really made it less stressful for me. He was very clear in guiding me through the insurance and legal processes and thanks to Jon, I have a settlement...
- Maya K.
I would recommend Jon Friedman to anyone! He exceeded all of my expectations and helped me obtain a generous settlement. I was involved in a motor vehicle accident that required 2 surgeries on my neck. Jon helped me every step of the way. I would have been lost without his expertise. Jon treated me as a individual and not "just...
- Michele J.
Mr. Friedman cuts to the chase and lets you know up front exactly what is going on and if you have a valid issue. He is dependable, follows through with his promises, calls in assistance when needed, and is forthright and fair in conclusion. I give him 5 stars because he earned 5 stars. I highly recommend Jon. Thank you.
- Jan N.
If you are looking for an attorney to represent you to the fullest... I will admit that John Friedman is the lawyer you are looking for! Yes there are a lot of lawyers out there, but will they bend over backwards for you? Jon will! He translate and put things in writing to where "YOU" can understand it. The insurance...
- Asia V.
My family will forever be grateful to John for his kind and persevering help for me after my injury. It is very lonely and scary to recover and rebuild your life after a major injury. Having John as my advocate gave me hope and allowed me to focus on getting healthy once again. I was impressed at John's abilities to...
- Patty M.
I have known Jon Friedman for twenty years and never thought the occasion would happen where I would need his services...but as life goes I was involved in a serious accident and thought that I could handle the insurance company claims adjustor and all the pressure from the physical healing, work, and negotiations. I was in way over my head...
- Brian B.
If there was a single highlight to being in a car accident, it was being able to work with Jon Friedman. Jon was referred to me by friend of mine after I was involved in a fairly bad car accident. Jon went above and beyond to make sure that I was comfortable, taken care of, and got everything I deserved....
- Geoff S.
I didn't want to hire a personal injury attorney but the car insurance company was giving me the run around and didn't even want to pay my medical bills. So I called around and found this place he has been honest, upfront with the whole process and I would recommend him to anyone who has been injured in the Portland...
- James J.
It was a pleasure meeting and working with you. No words my thanks. I appreciate everything you have done. Thank you for caring about me as one of your clients. That’s special and hard to find. You are one of a kind. Also, thank you for being straight forward and honest with me. You treated me like I’m a someone,...
- Leeann B.
Dear Jon Friedman I want to thank you so much for obtaining a VERY satisfactory settlement in my accident injury case. I felt I was well represented by you! Your constant communication made me feel that I was your first priority, though I realize you had a large case load with other clients. As a manager in a large organization...
- Michael
A friend referred me to see Jon Friedman at a very low point in my life. Three months earlier I’d been hit in two auto accidents within 20 days. I thought, initially, that the pain I was experiencing afterward was a matter of muscle sprains and that if I saw a chiropractor, the pain would go away within a month...
- Jeannie H.
Jon Friedman helped me to an extent I could never have expected.I was hurt in a car accident. My initial attorney came well recommended but was frequently unavailable and was not communicating with me about very important issues. It was very stressful and I felt that I was on my own.That changed when I found and consulted with Jon Friedman....
- Michael T.
In 2010, while waiting at a signal light, our car was ‘rear-ended’, resulting in its total loss. We sustained severe injuries to multiple body areas, including the need for a hip replacement. We were referred to Jon Friedman, attorney, to guide us through the complicated process of MVA litigation. From our initial meeting we realized Mr. Friedman was a patient...
- Dorothy and Hap S.
I was involved in an auto accident on Jan,6,2013. I found Jon Friedman online or maybe by fate. I personally had no car insurance but the person that wrecked my truck did. I did not know that their insurance would cover me. I had extensive medical bills but my personal health care provider also did not cover auto accidents. Jon...
- Carl B.
Jon was so wonderful to work with. He was always available to answer my questions and concerns in a way that I was able to understand. Jon is a straight shooter and definitely someone you’d want in your corner to ensure that you are not taken advantage of. Jon is very compassionate, caring and very good at what he does....
- The Josephs
After my car accident in May 2009; I was referred to Jon Friedman Attorney; I am very thankful for that referral. Jon worked on my case everyday for many, many months. It was not easy at times & I had many, many questions for him during my case. Each time I asked a question, he had an answer; if not...
- Caroline
Attorney Jon Friedman has all the experience and dedication any person would want in a lawyer. I appreciate his drive and determination. He is focused, and motivated to help.
- A. Connett
Jon – I should have contacted you from the start. After the accident I thought everything would go smoothly and I could handle it on my own. My mistake. I am fortunate that I got in touch with you. Once you had the info you took the ball and ran with it. You had many suggestions that I had not...
- Anonymous
Jon, I found your place page when I google’d for your phone number. As I plan to tell you on the phone when I call: I can’t thank you enough for helping me after my car accident. I am in such a good place now thanks to your help and patient guidance! I was amazed at all of the details...
- Rhonda D.
Jon is passionate about helping his clients AND a pleasure to work with.
- Anonymous
Hello, My name is Dale J. Finding an attorney is never easy or fun, especially if you need one due to a traffic accident. I was in severe pain, not working and starting to build a huge mountain of doctor bills. That’s when a friend of mine said, Go See Jon Friedman !!! He Will Help You !!! During my...
At the Law Offices of Jon Friedman in Portland, Oregon, we understand that bus transit is a lifeline for many. Every weekday, according to their latest passenger count statistics, our area residents take nearly 317,000 trips on 
