Montana Bus Accident Lawyer

Trusted Legal Help After a Montana Bus Crash

Bus accidents can result in devastating injuries, complex liability questions, and overwhelming legal challenges. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus crash in Montana, you need an experienced Montana bus accident attorney to help you understand your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure fair compensation. At Hoyt & Blewett PLLC, we offer compassionate, aggressive representation for victims of bus-related injuries across the state of Montana.

Whether the crash involved a school bus, transit vehicle, or charter motorcoach, our team knows how to investigate, build a strong case, and fight for justice on your behalf.

Contact us today at (406) 233-1302 for a free consultation.

Common Types of Buses

Bus accidents vary in severity and complexity depending on the type of bus involved. In Montana, some of the most common buses that are involved in accidents include:

• School Buses: These carry children and are usually owned or operated by school districts. Due to the precious cargo on board, accidents involving school buses often draw intense scrutiny and public concern.
• Public Transit Buses: Operated by city or regional transportation authorities (such as Billings MET Transit or Missoula’s Mountain Line), public buses can be involved in urban accidents caused by tight turns, congested routes, or driver error.
• Charter Buses / Tour Buses: These are privately operated and often used for group travel or tourism in scenic areas like Glacier National Park or Yellowstone. Driver fatigue and long-distance travel increase the risk of accidents.
• Shuttle Buses: Used by hotels, airports, or event organizers, these buses are smaller and may have fewer safety features. Accidents involving shuttle buses often occur in high-traffic areas or parking lots.
• Intercity Buses (Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, etc.): These long-distance buses travel between cities and states, often at highway speeds. Collisions can be severe due to the size and speed of the vehicles involved.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents in Montana can be caused by various factors. Our firm investigates each incident thoroughly to determine liability and pursue maximum compensation. Common causes include:

• Driver Negligence: This includes distracted driving, speeding, improper turns, and failure to obey traffic signals. Driver fatigue, especially on long-distance routes, is also a significant risk factor.
• Mechanical Failure: Buses require frequent inspections and maintenance. Brake failure, worn tires, or engine problems can lead to catastrophic accidents.
• Poor Weather and Road Conditions: Montana’s harsh winters, icy roads, and rural terrain can contribute to loss of control, reduced visibility, and collisions.
• Improper Bus Company Practices: Failure to conduct background checks, inadequate driver training, and pushing employees to meet unrealistic schedules can all lead to unsafe conditions.
• Other Motorists: Sometimes, another driver causes the crash by cutting off a bus, driving under the influence, or failing to yield.

No matter the cause, if negligence was involved, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Bus Driving Laws in Montana

Montana has specific traffic laws and federal regulations that apply to buses, especially those carrying passengers.

• Commercial Driver Licensing (CDL): Bus drivers in Montana must have a valid CDL with a passenger (P) endorsement. They must also meet specific health and safety standards.
• School Bus Regulations: School buses must stop at all railroad crossings, and drivers must engage stop arms and flashing lights when picking up or dropping off children. Other motorists are legally required to stop as well.
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs): Charter and intercity bus operators must comply with federal safety regulations, including limits on driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and drug testing.
• Montana Traffic Laws for Buses: Buses are required to obey all state traffic laws. When a bus driver or another driver violates these laws and causes a crash, they may be held civilly liable.

FAQs About Bus Accident Claims in MT

Who can be held liable in a Montana bus accident?
Depending on the situation, liable parties may include the bus driver, bus company, school district, maintenance contractor, another motorist, or a government entity.

What compensation can I recover after a bus accident in Montana?
Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation costs, and more. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also apply.

How long do I have to file a claim?
In most personal injury cases in Montana, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, if a government entity is involved (e.g., a school bus operated by a district), you may have to file a formal notice within a shorter timeframe.

What if I was partially at fault?
Montana follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Do I need a lawyer for a bus accident claim?
Yes. Bus accident cases are complex and often involve multiple parties, government agencies, or large transportation companies. Our Montana bus accident attorney can handle negotiations, gather evidence, and ensure your rights are protected.

Contact a Trusted Montana Bus Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bus crash, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Hoyt & Blewett PLLC offers free consultations and personalized legal strategies to help you recover the compensation you deserve. We have experience going up against large transportation companies and insurance carriers—and we don’t back down.

Call (406) 233-1302 today or fill out our online contact form to speak with a trusted Montana bus accident lawyer.