# Shreveport *Bus Accident Lawyers*

Thousands trust Shreveport buses daily for work and school transportation. When carelessness causes crashes, victims face serious injuries and insurance companies prioritizing profits over recovery. For 50+ years, Rice & Kendig has helped bus crash victims rebuild their lives.

[Your Free Consultation](https://ricekendig.com/contact-us)

[Rice & Kendig Injury Lawyers](https://ricekendig.com/) > [Personal Injury Lawyers](https://ricekendig.com/shreveport-injury-lawyer) >  Shreveport Bus Accidents

## Cases

## Our Track Record in

## *Bus Accident Cases*

- **[$900,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/mansfield-roadway-obstruction-900k-settlement)** — Motor Vehicle Accident: A truck towing a large piece of equipment blocked a rural roadway, leading to a collision that left our client with rib and ankle fractures.
- **[$1,000,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/18-wheeler-wrongful-death-1m-settlement)** — Wrongful Death: A series of truck collisions on a rural roadway resulted in catastrophic injuries and the wrongful death of our client.
- **[$900,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/oilfield-truck-accident-900k-settlement)** — Car Accidents: Clients were rear-ended by an oilfield service truck, resulting in shoulder and wrist injuries and the aggravation of a hernia.
- **[$755,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/rear-end-collision-755k-settlement)** — Car Accidents: A distracted driver failed to stop for our client’s vehicle, causing injuries, including sacroiliac joint dysfunction and post-concussion syndrome.
- **[$650,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/shreveport-trip-and-fall-650k-settlement)** — Trip and Fall: A caterer suffered major shoulder and knee injuries requiring surgery after tripping over a loose board that the facility had failed to repair.
- **[$826,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/haughton-rear-end-accident-826k-settlement)** — Car Accidents: A client was rear-ended in Haughton by a distracted driver, resulting in herniated discs and central stenosis.
- **[$675,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/desoto-parish-distracted-driver-675k-settlement)** — Car Accidents: Our client sustained spinal injuries and chronic headaches after being rear-ended by a distracted driver in Desoto Parish.
- **[$850,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/shreveport-rear-end-accident-850k-settlement)** — Car Accidents: A driver’s failure to yield on LA 3132 led to a high-impact rear-end collision, causing the client to suffer multi-level disc disease and chronic pain.
- **[$2,000,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/truck-tire-defect-2m-settlement)** — Truck Accidents: An 18-wheeler driver suffered severe facial and internal injuries after a defective tire blew out, causing the truck to flip several times.
- **[$2,700,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/slip-and-fall-head-injury-2-7m-settlement)** — Slip and Fall: A client suffered a head injury after slipping on unattended mop water in a facility that failed to post warning signs.
- **[$16,000,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/wrongful-death-18-wheeler-16m-settlement)** — Wrongful Death: A tragic head-on collision caused by a speeding 18-wheeler resulted in the wrongful death of a mother and great-grandmother and injuries to an infant.
- **[$1,000,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/premises-liability-roadway-collapse-1m-settlement)** — Premises Liability: The client was a passenger in a vehicle when the roadway suddenly collapsed, causing vertebral compression fractures and significant PTSD.
- **[$2,150,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/wrongful-death-2-15m-settlement)** — Wrongful Death: The client suffered fatal injuries when the defendant ran a stop sign, causing a collision that resulted in multiple broken bones and severe head trauma.
- **$1,600,000** — Truck Accidents: Former sheriff's deputy, age 72, was rear-ended by a heavy-duty work truck, aggravating a degenerative neck problem.
- **[$1,275,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/car-collision-1-275m-settlement)** — Car Accidents: The client was a passenger when another driver ran a stop sign, causing a t-bone collision resulting in a broken femur requiring surgery.
- **[$750,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/truck-accident-750k-settlement)** — Truck Accidents: An 18-wheeler lost power and rolled back into the client's vehicle, aggravating a pre-existing lower back injury.
- **[$2,000,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/car-accident-2m-settlement)** — Car Accidents: The client's pre-existing Chiari malformation was aggravated in a rear-end collision, requiring a posterior craniotomy.
- **[$650,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/car-accident-distracted-driver-collision-650k-settlement)** — Car Accidents: The client was turning into a gas station when struck from behind by a distracted driver, resulting in neck injuries requiring a 2-level cervical fusion.
- **[$465,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/truck-accident-leads-to-neck-surgery-465k-settlement)** — Truck Accidents: An inattentive 18-wheeler driver made an improper turn, causing a collision that aggravated the client's pre-existing neck injury requiring surgery.
- **[$1,000,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/car-accident-collision-1m-settlement)** — Car Accidents: An 84-year-old client suffered multiple injuries when a vehicle turned left in front of her, causing a t-bone collision.
- **[$2,500,000](https://ricekendig.com/results/pedestrian-hit-by-sleeping-driver-2-5m-settlement)** — Pedestrian Accidents: The client was helping a friend load car seats when struck by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel.
- **$987,525** — 18-Wheeler Collision: Logging truck’s failure to yield caused client to suffer fractures in the arm and leg, amputation of 3 toes, and shoulder injuries.
- **$1,000,000** — Premises Liability: Fall at a hotel convention center caused hand, neck, and low back injuries resulting in a 7-year recovery period.
- **$500,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Injuries to back, chest, shoulder, leg and spine requiring surgery.
- **$500,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was rear-ended sustaining injuries to the neck, back, and knee.
- **$500,000** — Wrongful Death/Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was struck and killed during daylight hours while retrieving an item from the highway.
- **$500,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was t-boned by a city vehicle sustaining neck and back injuries, TMJ, and headaches that required physical therapy and multiple injections.
- **$504,150** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was rear-ended causing injuries to the neck and right side of the body. Client’s neck injury required surgery.
- **$545,000** — Cycling/Motor Vehicle Collision: Client on a bicycle was hit by a police patrol car causing brain damage, and injuries to the head, neck, legs, and arm.
- **$550,000** — 18-Wheeler Collision: Client was rear-ended by a big rig causing low back and neck pain; physical recovery and treatment included injections, physical therapy, and counseling.
- **$625,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Head-on collision led to wrist and hand injuries that required surgery, seat belt injuries, pain in the neck, sternum, pelvis, abdomen, shoulder, and back, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- **$650,000** — 18-Wheeler Collision: 18-wheeler driver was rear-ended by another 18-wheeler causing headaches and neck injury.
- **$663,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was backed into while on the job at an oil field site. Collision resulted in numerous back and neck injuries requiring surgeries.
- **$665,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision/Wrongful Death: Client went to the aid of a vehicle accident victim and was struck and killed by a passing vehicle.
- **$685,000** — Premises Liability: Client sustained two broken legs from a fall over an unreasonably dangerous tripping hazard.
- **$800,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Head-on collision that left client with back and neck injuries as well as seat belt injuries. Client’s recovery was lengthy and included physical therapy and injections.
- **$800,606** — Motor Vehicle Collision: A defendant driver's unprotected left turn caused a collision, resulting in a severely broken leg requiring surgery, PTSD, loss of independence, and job loss for the client.
- **$950,000** — 18-Wheeler Collision: 18-wheeler driver turned left, without the protection of a green arrow, in front of client. The collision caused injuries to the hand, neck, shoulder, low back, hip, foot, ankle, and eye.
- **$950,000** — 18-Wheeler Collision: Client was hit by a delivery truck and the vehicle rolled over. Client’s injuries included six broken ribs and a neck injury requiring extensive medical treatment.
- **$987,610** — 18-Wheeler Collision: Client was rear-ended multiple times by a big rig causing PTSD, spinal injuries requiring spinal fusion surgery, physical therapy, and counseling.
- **$1,000,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was hit by a commercial vehicle that ran a stop sign. Injuries to the knee, neck, and back requiring interventional pain management.
- **$1,000,000** — 18-Wheeler Collision: Client was rear-ended by a drunk driver of an 18-wheeler causing client to suffer short-term memory loss and injuries to the head, neck, shoulders, and back.
- **$1,151,000** — Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was struck by a vehicle in a gas station parking lot. Client suffered head and brain damage resulting in memory loss.
- **$1,250,000** — Wrongful Death: Client’s husband died due to a logging truck running a red light.
- **$1,375,000** — Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision: Client sustained injuries to head, leg and wrist. Client’s broken leg required surgery. In addition, client sought treatment with a neurologist for his head injury and cognitive issues.
- **$5,100,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client’s motorcycle was hit by a car leaving him in the ICU with facial injuries, arm injuries, and amputation of one leg.
- **$1,996,460** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was rear-ended while sitting at a stop sign. Neck and back injuries resulting in headaches and disability. Neck injury required surgery.
- **$1,855,500** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Defendant driver’s failure to stop at a stop sign caused a collision injuring the client’s leg and ankle (required surgery), knee, hip, back, and chest. The airbags deployed, causing airbag injuries.
- **$1,500,000** — Motor Vehicle Collision: Client was hit head-on by a delivery truck sustaining injuries to the knee, hand, neck, and back. Neck injury required surgery.
- **$1,400,000** — Workplace Injury: A piece of loading equipment fell on client causing spinal injuries resulting in partial disability.

[See How We’ve Won for Others](https://ricekendig.com/results)

## Awards & Recognition
- Super Lawyers
- Accredited Business
- Preeminent
- Avvo 10 Superb
- Top 100
- Top 10 shreveport
- Advacates Forum
- Top 100 2020
- Seal of Shreveport Bar Association featuring a stylized column in navy blue.

## Types of Bus Accidents We Handle

Every bus accident story is unique, and behind each case is a family whose life has been turned upside down. At Rice & Kendig, we've helped countless Shreveport residents navigate the aftermath of various bus accidents:

- ### School Bus Accidents
  As parents ourselves, we know there's nothing more terrifying than learning your child has been hurt on their way to school. Whether it's a collision, a sudden stop that causes injury, or an incident during loading or unloading, we investigate every detail to hold negligent parties accountable. Our team works tirelessly to ensure your child receives the medical care and support they need to recover fully.
- ### Public Transit Crashes
  Many Shreveport residents rely on SporTran buses to get to work, medical appointments, or run daily errands. When negligence turns these routine trips into nightmares, you need advocates who understand the complexities of claims against government entities. We know the strict deadlines and special requirements these cases involve, and we'll guide you through every step of the process.
- ### Charter Bus Accidents
  Whether you were headed to a casino, traveling with your church group, or embarking on a tour, a charter bus crash can leave you far from home and suffering from serious injuries. We handle the complex web of state laws and insurance policies while you focus on healing. Our team investigates every aspect – from driver qualifications to maintenance records – to build the strongest possible case.
- ### Private Shuttle Accidents
  From hotel shuttles to airport transportation services, private carriers have a duty to transport passengers safely. When they fail in this duty, our experienced attorneys step in to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
- ### Interstate Bus Crashes
  Interstate bus companies like Greyhound must follow strict federal safety regulations. When they cut corners to save money or push drivers beyond safe limits, passengers pay the price. We know how to investigate these complex cases and prove violations that strengthen your claim.
- ### Special Needs Transportation Accidents
  Buses serving disabled passengers have additional responsibilities to ensure safe transport. When proper procedures aren't followed or equipment isn't properly maintained, we fight for those who may not be able to fight for themselves.

## Common Bus Accident Injuries We Have Seen

Behind every injury statistic is a person whose life has been forever changed. We've helped clients cope with:

- **Traumatic Brain Injuries**
  : Memory loss, personality changes, and cognitive impairments that impact daily life.
- **Spinal Cord Injuries**
  : Life-altering injuries that may require ongoing care and permanent lifestyle adaptations.
- **Multiple Fractures**
  : Complex breaks requiring surgery, extended recovery time, and comprehensive rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries
  : Serious organ damage and internal bleeding that require immediate and ongoing medical attention.
- **Burn Injuries**
  : Severe burns from fuel fires or explosions requiring extensive treatment and rehabilitation.
- Psychological Trauma
  : PTSD, anxiety, and depression that require professional mental health support.
- **Wrongful Death**
  : When accidents claim lives, we help families secure compensation while honoring their loved one's memory.

No matter what type of cause or injury you've faced — whether it's listed here or not — we're here to help. 

## Common Causes Behind Bus Accidents in Shreveport

Understanding why bus accidents happen helps us build stronger cases and prevent future tragedies. Here's what we've discovered through years of investigating these crashes:

- Driver Fatigue
  : We've seen it too often — bus companies pressuring drivers to stay behind the wheel when they should be resting.
- Inadequate Training
  : Some bus companies put profits ahead of safety by rushing drivers through training or skipping essential safety protocols.
- **Distracted Driving**
  : From checking route displays to handling passenger issues, bus drivers face many distractions. 
- Poor Maintenance
  : Regular maintenance isn't just a requirement – it's a matter of life and death. We've seen tragic accidents caused by worn brakes, bad tires, and other preventable equipment failures.
- Weather-Related Accidents
  : Louisiana weather can change in an instant, and bus drivers must adjust accordingly. When they fail to slow down or take proper precautions in bad weather, we prove how their choices endangered passengers.

## What You Should Do After a Bus Accident

We know you're feeling overwhelmed right now. The moments after a bus accident are confusing and frightening, but you don't have to figure this out alone. Here's how we recommend protecting yourself and your future:

### Your Health Comes First: Get Medical Care

Even if you think you can walk it off, please get checked out by a medical professional. We've seen too many clients who thought they were "fine" develop serious symptoms days or weeks later. Your health is too precious to take chances, and proper medical documentation will help protect your rights.

### Preserve Your Story: Document What Happened

If you can, try to capture as much information as possible about the accident. Every detail matters:

- Use your phone to take photos of everything — the bus, other vehicles, your injuries.
- Get names and numbers of other passengers who saw what happened.
- Note the weather and road conditions that might have contributed.
- Keep your bus ticket or any receipts proving you were a passenger.
- Save every medical record, receipt, and document related to your injuries.

### Make It Official: Report the Accident

We'll help you navigate the reporting process, but it's important to file official reports with:

- Local police or law enforcement.
- The bus company or transit authority.
- Your child's school district (for school bus accidents).
- Federal authorities (for interstate bus accidents).

### Protect Your Rights: Be Careful What You Say

Insurance companies often try to take advantage of accident victims when they're most vulnerable. To protect yourself:

- Don't give recorded statements to insurance adjusters without our lawyers present.
- Don’t discuss the accident or your injuries on social media.
- Don't accept quick settlement offers that might undervalue your claim.

Call Rice & Kendig immediately — let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing!

## Compensation You Could Receive After a Bus Accident in Shreveport, LA

A bus accident impacts every aspect of your life, and your compensation should reflect that. At Rice & Kendig, we dig deep to understand how the accident has affected you and your family, fighting for every dollar you deserve:

### Medical Care

We've seen how medical bills can overwhelm families. We'll fight for compensation covering all your healthcare needs, including:

- Emergency treatment, hospital stays, and current/future surgeries.
- Physical therapy, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Mental health support and counseling for trauma and anxiety.
- Necessary medical equipment and long-term care needs that insurance might deny.

### Lost Income

When injuries keep you from working, the stress isn't just physical — it's financial. We help recover:

- Current and future lost wages, salary, and business opportunities.
- Lost benefits, retirement contributions, and career advancement opportunities.
- Job retraining costs if you can't return to your previous position.
- Long-term impact on your earning capacity.

### Pain and Suffering

We understand that some of the deepest impacts can't be measured in dollars:

- Physical pain and emotional distress, including PTSD and anxiety.
- Loss of enjoyment in daily activities and hobbies.
- Changes to your physical abilities and appearance.
- Loss of consortium damages for your spouse for the loss of companionship and support

### Additional Losses

We pursue compensation for all other accident-related losses:

- Property damage and personal belongings.
- Transportation and accessibility modifications.
- Impact on family members' lives.
- Wrongful death damages when applicable.

## Louisiana Bus Laws You Need to Know

The legal system can feel like a maze, especially when you're trying to heal. Let us guide you through the important laws that affect your case:

### Time Matters: New Filing Deadlines

Louisiana recently changed how long you have to file a claim:

- Accidents before July 1, 2024
  : You have one year to take action under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492.
- Accidents after July 1, 2024
  : You have two years to file under Act 272 of the 2023 Regular Session.
- When the bus is owned by a government entity, a Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days of the accident under most municipal codes.
- If the government entity does not respond, you can file a lawsuit 30 days after filing the Notice of Claim.

### Higher Standards for Bus Companies

Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2317.1 and federal regulations (49 CFR Part 396), buses are considered "common carriers," meaning:

- They must exercise the "highest degree of care" to ensure passenger safety.
- They're subject to strict Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.
- They face heightened liability under Louisiana's negligence laws.
- They must maintain detailed records of maintenance and safety inspections.

### Public Transit-Specific Laws

For SporTran and other public transit accidents, Louisiana R.S. 48:1751-1756 applies:

- Claims must follow the Louisiana Governmental Claims Act.
- Damage caps may apply under R.S. 13:5106.
- Special sovereign immunity considerations under R.S. 9:2800.

### Commercial Driver Requirements

Under Louisiana R.S. 32:408 and FMCSA regulations:

- Drivers must maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsement.
- Medical certificates must be renewed every 2 years (49 CFR 391.45).
- Drivers are limited to 10 hours of driving time after 8 consecutive hours off duty.
- Random drug testing is required per 49 CFR Part 382.
- Annual safety training and certification is mandatory.

### Mandatory Insurance Coverage

Louisiana law and federal regulations require comprehensive insurance:

- Minimum $5 million liability coverage for buses crossing state lines (49 CFR 387.33)
- For intrastate buses: minimum $1.5 million under Louisiana R.S. 45:163(D)
- School buses must carry special coverage under R.S. 17:159
- Additional uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is required unless specifically rejected

### Additional Key Regulations

- Vehicle Safety Standards
  : All buses must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
- Maintenance Records
  : Required to maintain 3 years of inspection and maintenance records.
- Hours of Service Logs
  : Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are mandatory under 49 CFR Part 395.
- Passenger Safety
  : Must comply with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements
- Emergency Protocols
  : Must have emergency evacuation procedures under 49 CFR 390.3.

Struggling After Your Accident? *We're Here to Help.*

At Rice & Kendig, our Shreveport bus accident lawyers have more than 40 years of experience helping clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Get your free case review now!

*No Fee Unless We Win For You*

Free Consultation

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772

## TESTIMONIALS

## What Our Clients *Have to Say*

- They were there to support me all the way. Even when I wanted to give up, honestly.
- I genuinely feel like Rice & Kendig had my best interest at heart and they made sure that nothing was left out.
- I knew that they would take care of us, and I would definitely recommend them to anybody.
- Rice & Kendig are very good at seeing what the weakness in our case is and what the strength is and developing both sides of the case.
- They take great care of you. They care, and they make sure that you get what you need, they make sure that you're okay.
- I suggest Rice & Kendig if you want someone who cares about you and your situation.
- They did such a good job fighting for us and not dragging it on... Thanks to Rice & Kendig, the matter was over within a year.
- He called me every day, made sure I was okay... he was just perfect. You couldn't ask for a better attorney.
- They took care of us right away. They were loving.

## BENEFITS

## Why Choose Rice &

## *Kendig for Your Bus Accident Case?*

- **We've Been Where You Are**: For over 50 years, we've stood beside Shreveport families like yours, fighting against powerful bus companies and winning. We don't just handle cases — we help rebuild lives.
- **You'll Work Directly with People Who Care**: When you call us, you won't be passed off to inexperienced junior staff or admin staff. You'll work directly with experienced attorneys who know your story and care about your future.
- **We Know the Inside Story**: Bus companies have their playbook — and we know it by heart. Our deep understanding of transportation regulations and industry practices helps us anticipate their moves and build stronger cases for our clients.
- **We're Your Shreveport Neighbor**: We live here, work here, and raise our families here. Our deep roots in the Shreveport community give us unique advantages in local courts and authentic connections with the people we serve.
- **We Take the Risk, You Focus on Healing**: Worried about legal fees while medical bills pile up? Don't be. We work on a contingency basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

## Your Local Advocates:

## Serving Bus Accident Victims *Across Northern Louisiana*

Our bus accident attorneys serve clients across the following:

- [Bossier City](https://ricekendig.com/bossier-city-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Haughton](https://ricekendig.com/haughton-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Mansfield](https://ricekendig.com/mansfield-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Ruston](https://ricekendig.com/ruston-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Natchitoches](https://ricekendig.com/natchitoches-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Monroe](https://ricekendig.com/monroe-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Alexandria](https://ricekendig.com/alexandria-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Many](https://ricekendig.com/many-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [Minden](https://ricekendig.com/minden-personal-injury-lawyer)
- [West Monroe](https://ricekendig.com/west-monroe-personal-injury-lawyer)
- Jonesbro

## Don’t Settle for Anything Less:

## Call Rice & Kendig Today!

Don't face powerful bus companies alone! 50+ years standing up for victims. Feeling pressured? We stand between you and those minimizing your suffering. See why Louisiana families trust us.

## FAQ

## Honest Answers to Your Questions:

## *Bus Accidents FAQ*

### The bus company says I'm partly at fault. What can I do?

We hear this all the time — it's a common tactic bus companies use to avoid responsibility. Don't let it worry you. We've helped many clients who faced similar accusations. Our thorough investigations often reveal the true cause of the accident, and we know how to stand up to these blame-shifting strategies.

### How long will it take to resolve my case?

We understand you want answers and a resolution. While every case is different, we'll work efficiently while making sure we account for all your injuries — even those that might not be obvious right away. Some cases settle in months, and others take longer if we need to fight harder for fair compensation. We'll keep you informed and involved in every decision throughout the process.

### I was hit by a bus while walking. Do I have a case?

Absolutely. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or in another vehicle, you have rights. In fact, pedestrians often suffer some of the most serious injuries in bus accidents. We have extensive experience helping pedestrians rebuild their lives after bus accidents.

### What if the bus didn't have seatbelts?

This is a common concern, but don't worry. Many buses don't have seatbelts, and Louisiana law protects your right to compensation regardless. We've helped many clients recover damages in cases involving buses without seatbelts. Your safety and recovery are what matter most.

### Can I still recover damages if my child wasn't wearing a seatbelt on the school bus?

**Yes.**Most school buses rely on compartmentalization rather than seatbelts for safety. The absence of a seatbelt or failure to use one doesn't prevent you from seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a school bus accident.

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Rice & Kendig Injury Lawyers — [https://ricekendig.com/shreveport-bus-accident-lawyer](https://ricekendig.com/shreveport-bus-accident-lawyer)