Bus Accident Claims – Drivers and Passengers

Keep a record of any medical care: Even if you feel “fine,” the adrenaline of an accident can mask symptoms like whiplash or internal bruising. Visit a GP or A&E immediately to ensure your injuries are professionally documented. Keep all medical records and receipts.

Report the Incident to the Driver: Ensure the bus driver logs the accident with the bus company.

To the Gardaí: If the Gardaí don’t attend the scene to take details of the collision, visit your local station to make a formal statement.

Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you are physically able, take photos of the bus (including the registration and route number), the road conditions, and your visible injuries. Take photos of any other vehicles involved.

Identify Witnesses: Collect names and phone numbers of fellow passengers or bystanders.

Keep Your Ticket: Your bus ticket or Leap Card record provides essential proof that you were on the vehicle when the incident occurred.

Injured Passengers: Whether you were seated or standing, you are owed a duty of care by any bus or transport company, be it a bus, train or Luas. Injuries may include falls from sudden braking, collisions, or falls while boarding/alighting.

Pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter users: Vulnerable road users hit by or colliding with a bus due to the bus driver’s negligence.

Other Motorists: Drivers or passengers in cars, vans, or motorcycles involved in a collision with a bus.

Minors: Parents or legal guardians of children under the age of 18 who have been injured in the accident can bring a claim on their behalf, for example, injuries sustained on school transport or public services.

Bus Driver Error: Excessive speed, distracted driving, fatigue, or sudden halts.

Sudden Manoeuvres: Harsh braking, poor driving or sharp cornering before passengers are safely seated.

Mechanical Failure and hazardous conditions: The bus company could be liable for poorly maintained vehicles, including faulty brakes, doors, or worn tyres. Hazardous conditions, such as slippery floors, loose handrails, or uneven bus stop infrastructure, can cause passenger injuries.

Solicitor Consultation: Tell us what happened. We review your case, obtain medical reports, and identify the correct defendant (the bus operator, the driver, or a third party).

Injuries Resolution Board (formerly PIAB): Most claims must first be submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board. We can do this on your behalf, as the board will not address your legal queries at any stage of your case. They will assess your medical records and suggest a compensation amount, which is typically lower than what you could potentially be entitled to.

Accept or Reject the Injuries Resolution Board offer: You and the defendant can either accept the assessment or reject it. If you reject it, we will initiate court proceedings on your behalf. This does not mean your case will go to court.

Settlement meetings: Most cases are settled through negotiation before ever reaching a courtroom.

General Damages: For “pain and suffering,” including physical injuries (like whiplash or fractures) and psychological trauma (like travel anxiety).

Special Damages: To cover out-of-pocket expenses, such as medical bills, medication, physiotherapy, and loss of earnings if you had to take time off work.

Material Damages: Compensation for damaged personal property, such as broken glasses, phones, or clothing.