If you were hurt in a bus accident that wasn't your fault, as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist or another driver, you can usually claim compensation, with no upfront fees.
A bus accident claim is a claim for compensation if you were hurt in an accident involving a bus that wasn't your fault. You might have been a passenger, a pedestrian, a cyclist or in another vehicle.
Usually the bus operator, such as Translink for Metro, Ulsterbus and Goldline services. If another vehicle caused the crash, the claim is against that driver's insurer instead.
You can be injured on a bus without it hitting anything, for example if the driver brakes sharply or pulls away before you've sat down. If the bus wasn't driven with reasonable care, you may still have a claim.
Note the route number, the time and the direction of travel. Buses often have CCTV, so it's worth asking for the footage early, before it's recorded over.
Three years from the date of the accident in most cases, under the Limitation (Northern Ireland) Order 1989. For a child, the three years usually start on their 18th birthday.
Bus accidents can result in various injuries, some of which may be severe. Common injuries include:
If you've suffered any of these injuries, see your GP or go to A&E, and keep a record of your symptoms.
If you've been injured in a bus accident, you can claim for:
You pay nothing to start your claim and nothing while it runs.
We only handle personal injury and clinical negligence claims, from first advice through to court if it comes to that.
If your claim succeeds, the other side pays your legal costs and you keep 100% of your compensation.
Our legal insurance covers the costs if your claim doesn't succeed.
We'll look at what happened and tell you honestly whether you have a claim. There's no pressure to go ahead.
Road traffic claims are run by Paul Kearney, a solicitor advocate and former barrister, with trainee solicitor John Deeney.
We help clients across Northern Ireland, in person or by phone, email or video.
A bus accident claim allows you to seek compensation if you were injured in an accident involving a bus, whether as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another road user.
You can claim for injuries such as fractures, spinal injuries, head trauma, internal injuries, and psychological distress caused by the accident.
Yes. If the bus driver's negligence or reckless driving caused the accident, you can claim compensation for your injuries.
Yes, if you were a pedestrian involved in a bus accident, you have the right to claim compensation for your injuries and related losses.
If the bus driver isn't insured or the insurance doesn't cover your injuries, we can help you pursue a claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB).
Usually three years from the date of the accident. It's best to contact us early, while evidence such as CCTV and witness details is easier to get.
It's always best to report the accident as soon as possible, but even if you didn't report the accident immediately, we can still gather other evidence such as medical reports and witness statements.
Yes, even if you weren't a bus passenger, you may be entitled to claim compensation if the accident involved the bus and caused you harm (e.g., if you were a cyclist, pedestrian, or another road user).
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injury, the impact it has on your life, lost wages, medical costs, and future care requirements. After reviewing your case, we can provide a more accurate estimate.
Yes. Medical records and an independent medical report show what your injuries are and how they affect you. They are also used to work out your compensation.
Evidence may include photos of the scene, witness statements, medical records, CCTV footage, and police reports. Our team will help you gather the necessary evidence to strengthen your case.
Yes. Even without witnesses, we can use other evidence such as photos, medical reports, and expert testimonies to support your claim.
We will investigate the accident thoroughly and challenge the bus company's defence, using evidence to prove that they were at fault and failed in their duty of care.
Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to partial compensation under the principle of contributory negligence.
Most bus accident claims settle out of court. However, if your case goes to trial, we will fully represent you and guide you through the process.
Every claim is different. Most are resolved within 6 to 12 months, depending on how complex the case is and the evidence involved. We keep you updated throughout.
Yes, psychological harm such as anxiety, PTSD, or loss of confidence caused by the accident can be included in your claim for compensation.
If the accident happened within the last three years, you are likely still within the legal time frame to claim. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your options.
No. There are no upfront fees. If your claim succeeds, the other side pays your legal costs and you keep 100% of your compensation. If it doesn't, our legal insurance covers the costs.
Yes, if the bus driver or bus company failed to take necessary precautions for the weather conditions (e.g., icy roads or poor visibility), you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries sustained.
Kearney Law Group Ltd is a solicitors' practice regulated by the Law Society of Northern Ireland. Registered in Northern Ireland, company number NI663222. Registered office: Bishop Street Chambers, 26–28 Bishop Street, Derry BT48 6PR.
Kearney Law Group specialises in legal services relating to Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence. We are committed to achieving the best results for our clients.
Contact us today to arrange your FREE initial consultation relating to any of the above matters.
Belfast: Scottish Provident Building, 7 Donegall Square West, Belfast BT1 6JH
02890 912 938
Derry: Bishop Street Chambers, 26–28 Bishop Street, Derry BT48 6PR
02871 362 299
Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday 8am – 8pm
Friday 9am – 5pm
