Bus Accident Claims
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist or another driver—it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to turn, and uncertain about what comes next. These incidents can be distressing, and it’s only natural to have questions. At John O’Leary Solicitors LLP, we’re here to guide you with care, clarity, and practical advice rooted in over 20 years of experience supporting people across Tallaght and Dublin.
We know the roads, we know the services, and most importantly, we know the impact an accident can have on your day-to-day life. Whether you were travelling on a busy Dublin Bus route, injured while crossing the street, or caught in a collision with a coach or private bus, you’ll speak directly with a solicitor who understands exactly what you’re going through.
Our approach is simple and personal: we take the time to listen, explain your options in plain English, and stand by your side from start to finish. You won’t be left guessing, and you won’t be treated like a number. Just dependable, local legal help from a team that truly cares.
If you’re unsure whether you have a claim, or if you just want to talk things through, reach out to John O’Leary Solicitors LLP today. We’re here when you’re ready—with advice you can trust and support you can count on.
What Causes Bus Accidents? A Closer Look at Responsibility
Bus accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but most can be traced back to identifiable failures—by the driver, the bus operator, or even the condition of the road. Understanding what caused the accident is an essential part of making a claim, and it often reveals that these incidents aren’t as unpredictable as they may first appear.
Driver Error
Like all road users, bus drivers can make mistakes. These often include:
- Speeding or braking too harshly, especially at roundabouts or when approaching bus stops
- Failing to check blind spots, particularly when pulling out or changing lanes
- Distracted driving, such as looking away from the road to monitor passengers or use internal systems
- Driver fatigue, particularly on long-haul coach routes or split shifts
If a bus driver causes an accident through poor judgement or inattention, the bus company may still be liable for failing to properly train or monitor their staff.
Vehicle Maintenance Issues
Bus operators have a duty to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy. But we regularly see claims involving:
- Worn brakes or tyres
- Poorly secured seating or handrails
- Door malfunctions that lead to falls or crush injuries
- Leaking hydraulic fluid or mechanical faults that cause the driver to lose control
In these cases, the fault may lie with the operating company or a third-party maintenance provider. Even when the driver isn’t directly at fault, someone is responsible for making sure the bus was safe to operate.
Road Conditions and Infrastructure
Some accidents stem from dangerous road layouts, tight junctions, or inadequate signage—especially in older areas of Dublin or residential estates in Tallaght. While the driver may be navigating as carefully as possible, a poorly marked turn or obscured stop can still lead to an incident. In such cases, a claim may involve a local authority or road maintenance contractor.
Operator Negligence
Bus companies also have a broader responsibility to provide a safe service. That includes:
- Not overcrowding buses, especially during school hours
- Ensuring supervision on school buses, particularly when transporting young children
- Following proper passenger safety procedures, including stopping fully before letting people board or exit
If this wider duty of care is breached, the company—not just the driver—can be held accountable.
Who Can Make a Bus Accident Claim?
Bus accidents don’t just affect drivers—they can impact anyone using the road or public transport system. If you’ve been injured due to the actions of a bus driver or operator, you may be entitled to bring a claim. The key factor is whether the accident was caused, in full or in part, by someone else’s negligence.
1. Injured Bus Passengers
If you were a passenger on a bus that stopped suddenly, collided with another vehicle, or was involved in a single-vehicle incident (like hitting a bollard or mounting a kerb), you may be eligible to claim. Injuries can happen even without a full crash—jerking forward, being thrown from a seat, or falling while standing are all grounds for investigation.
2. Pedestrians and Cyclists
Buses frequently operate in shared spaces, especially around city centres and suburban hubs like Tallaght. If you were struck while walking or cycling near a bus lane, crossing a road, or using a shared traffic route, your injuries may be linked to driver error, road layout issues, or blind spots.
3. Drivers of Other Vehicles
If your car, van, or motorcycle was hit by a bus, and you weren’t at fault, you can bring a claim just as you would with any other vehicle collision. These accidents can be severe due to the bus’s size and weight, especially in side-impact or rear-end incidents.
4. Children and School Transport Claims
If your child was injured on a school bus or during boarding or disembarking, you can bring a claim on their behalf. Children are especially vulnerable due to their size and mobility, and there is a heightened duty of care placed on bus operators in these situations.
What to Do After a Bus Accident in Ireland
In the aftermath of a bus accident, it’s easy to feel dazed or unsure of what to do—especially if there’s no major visible damage or if you’re not the driver. But taking the right steps early on can protect both your health and your ability to bring a claim later. Whether the accident happened in Tallaght or anywhere in Dublin, here’s what you should know.
Report the Incident to the Right People
If the bus driver is aware of the incident (as they should be), they are required to log it with their operator. Still, you should report it yourself—either to the bus company’s customer service department or directly to the Gardaí, particularly if you were injured or if no official response occurred at the scene.
If it’s a Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann or Go-Ahead Ireland vehicle, ask for the incident number or service ID when you make contact.
For more serious incidents, attend your local Garda station—Tallaght Garda Station if you’re based nearby—and give a clear, factual account.
Gather Information If You Can
If you’re able, collect:
- The route number, registration number, or operator name of the bus
- The driver’s name or badge number, if known
- Names and contact info of witnesses, especially if other passengers were involved
- Photos of the scene, your injuries, or any road conditions that contributed
Even if you didn’t manage to collect this at the time, it’s still worth reaching out to a solicitor—we can often request official reports and witness statements after the fact.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly
Even if you feel okay at first, get checked by a GP or hospital as soon as possible. Many injuries—especially soft tissue, back and neck issues—don’t show their full effect for a day or two. Tallaght University Hospital or your local clinic can provide proper documentation for any treatment.
Keep a Personal Record
Write down your memory of the event while it’s still fresh: how the accident happened, what you felt afterwards, and how your symptoms progressed in the following days. These notes can be a valuable reference and support your claim.
Proving Fault in a Bus Accident Claim
To make a successful bus accident claim, you don’t need to have all the answers—but liability must still be established. In bus-related cases, fault can lie with the driver, the bus company, a third-party motorist, or even the local authority. What matters is showing who failed in their duty of care—and how that failure caused your injury.
Duty of Care for Bus Drivers and Operators
Bus drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely and professionally. That includes:
- Braking and cornering with caution
- Ensuring passengers are seated or stable before moving off
- Avoiding sudden swerves, late stops, or unsafe turns
- Watching for cyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles in shared spaces
But the responsibility doesn’t end with the driver. Bus operators must ensure vehicles are roadworthy, timetables are manageable, and drivers are adequately trained and rested. If a company fails in these areas, they may be held liable for any resulting harm.
Gathering Evidence
We establish liability using a range of evidence:
- On-board CCTV (often available on city buses)
- Black box telematics or internal event logs
- Eyewitness statements from fellow passengers or bystanders
- Driver logs, fatigue records, or training history
- Maintenance records showing missed or substandard inspections
- Photographs of damage, road layout, and weather conditions
Even in cases without obvious impact—like a sudden stop that caused a fall—this type of evidence can be vital in showing that driver conduct was unreasonable.
Public Transport and Higher Standards
State-run services like Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann are expected to meet rigorous safety standards. If these are breached—due to poor maintenance, operator pressure, or inadequate training—the company may be held responsible through the State Claims Agency.
Private bus operators are held to similar standards under public liability law.
Contributory Negligence
In some cases, both parties may share fault. For example, if a passenger was moving around the bus when they shouldn’t have been, their compensation may be reduced. We’ll assess these risks and ensure your side is clearly and fairly presented.
At John O’Leary Solicitors LLP, we approach every claim thoroughly—gathering the right proof, identifying the responsible parties, and making sure your case is supported by fact, not just feeling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim if I was injured on a moving bus but there was no crash?
Yes. Many bus injury claims arise from sudden braking or sharp cornering—even when no other vehicle is involved. If the driver failed to operate the bus safely and you were injured as a result, you may still have grounds for a claim.
What if the driver didn’t stop or acknowledge the incident?
You should report the incident to the bus operator and the Gardaí as soon as possible. Many public buses have internal CCTV and driver logs that can help confirm what happened, even if no formal report was made at the time. We can assist in retrieving this information.
Can I claim if I fell getting on or off the bus?
Yes, if the fall was caused by driver inattention (e.g. moving off too quickly), faulty steps, slippery floors, or poor lighting. These incidents are common and can lead to serious injuries—especially for elderly passengers.
Do I need to know the bus route or registration number?
It helps, but it’s not essential. If you remember the time, location, and direction of travel, we can often trace the bus through timetables, operator logs, or CCTV from nearby areas. Don’t assume you’ve missed your chance if details are patchy.
What if the accident involved a tour or private coach?
Private bus and coach operators also owe a duty of care. If you were injured on a private service, whether as a passenger or another road user, you can still pursue a claim through their insurer. The process is similar to public bus claims.
My child was injured on a school bus—can I act on their behalf?
Yes. Parents or legal guardians can bring a claim on behalf of a child injured on school transport. This includes accidents on board, at pickup points, or during boarding or exit. We’ll handle the process with care and keep you informed at every step.
How long do I have to bring a bus accident claim?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident. However, for children, the clock doesn’t start until their 18th birthday. Early legal advice is strongly recommended to preserve evidence and give your case the best chance of success.
Speak to a Local Solicitor Who Knows the Roads and the Law
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident—on the road, on board, or even just crossing the street—it’s important to understand your rights. At John O’Leary Solicitors LLP, we’ve been helping individuals and families across Tallaght and Dublin for over 20 years, providing clear, practical guidance after serious accidents.
You won’t be sent in circles or handed off. When you contact us, you’ll speak directly with a solicitor who understands both the legal system and the local road network. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and take action when you’re ready.
Don’t wait to find out where you stand. Call or email John O’Leary Solicitors LLP today to arrange a confidential consultation with a team that puts your recovery first.