Can I Sue if I Get Hurt on a Bus in Virginia?

 Posted on December 21, 2025 in Personal Injury

As of 2025, Virginia law still allows injured passengers and pedestrians to bring claims after bus-related injuries in certain cases. It depends on who owns or operates the bus, how the injury happened, and which legal rules apply. Bus injury cases are different from regular car accident claims because many buses are owned or run by government agencies.

If you think you might have a claim, our Fairfax, VA public transportation injury lawyer can help. Bus accident claims can involve strict deadlines and special notice requirements that do not apply in other injury cases, so you need strong legal representation to fight for fair compensation.

Can I Sue the City or State for a Bus Injury in Virginia?

Virginia allows certain injury claims against government entities, but only if specific rules are followed. The Virginia Tort Claims Act, found at Virginia Code § 8.01-195.1, explains when the Commonwealth of Virginia can be held responsible for injuries caused by government employees. For example, this may apply if a government-operated bus driver causes a crash while performing job duties.

Local governments have additional rules. Under Virginia Code § 15.2-209, a person injured by a city, town, or county vehicle typically must provide written notice of the claim within a short period of time. In many cases, this notice must be sent within six months of the injury. Missing this deadline can prevent the claim from moving forward, even if the injury is serious.

What If the Bus That Injured Me Was Privately Owned?

If the bus was privately owned, such as a charter bus or tour bus, the claim usually follows standard negligence rules. Negligence can look like unsafe driving, distracted driving, speeding, poor vehicle maintenance, and more. These claims do not usually require special government notices, but deadlines still apply. Most importantly, you will still need to prove that negligence occurred, and it caused your injuries and damages.

What Evidence Helps Prove a Bus Injury Claim?

Evidence is especially important in bus injury cases. Many buses have onboard cameras, GPS tracking, and maintenance records. This information can help show how the incident happened and whether the driver or operator acted safely.

Other helpful evidence may include medical records, witness statements, incident reports, and photos or videos from the scene. Acting quickly matters because some evidence may only be kept for a limited time.

How Long Do I Have to Sue After a Bus Injury in Virginia?

Virginia has strict deadlines for injury cases. Under Virginia Code § 8.01-243(A), most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date of injury. Claims involving government-owned buses often have much shorter notice deadlines. Waiting too long to take action can result in losing the right to pursue compensation, even if the injury has lasting effects.

Does It Matter If I Was Partly at Fault for the Bus Injury?

Virginia follows a contributory negligence rule. This means that if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident, you may not be able to recover compensation.

Because this rule is strict, bus injury claims often involve a close review of the facts. Transit authorities and insurance companies may look for reasons to deny responsibility. Having an attorney review the evidence early can help protect your claim and address these challenges before they affect your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Fairfax, VA Public Transportation Injury Attorney

If you were injured while riding a bus or struck by one, legal guidance can help you understand your options. Our firm works on a contingency-fee basis, which means you do not pay unless compensation is recovered. Call 703-844-3746 today to schedule a free consultation with our Fairfax, VA public transportation injury lawyers who have more than 50 years of legal experience. We are available 24/7. Hablamos Español.