If you’ve been hurt because a city bus hit a parked car and that collision caused your injury you’re not just dealing with dents and bruises. You’re facing medical bills, missed work, maybe even long-term pain. Figuring out who’s legally responsible is the first real step toward getting things made right.

Who can be held responsible when a municipal bus hits a parked car and someone gets hurt?

Liability doesn’t always fall on the bus driver alone. The city or transit authority that owns the bus may also be on the hook especially if poor training, bad maintenance, or faulty equipment played a role. Sometimes, the owner of the parked car shares some blame, like if it was illegally parked in a way that blocked visibility. Maine follows a shared fault system, so even if you were partly at fault for example, standing too close to the parked car you might still recover damages, just reduced by your percentage of fault.

What kinds of injuries are common in these crashes?

It’s not just about the crash itself. A bus hitting a parked car can send debris flying, cause the car to lurch into a pedestrian, or create a chain reaction. Common injuries include:

  • Broken bones from being struck by doors, mirrors, or flying glass
  • Whiplash or spinal injuries if you were inside the parked car
  • Cuts, bruises, or head trauma from falling or being thrown against objects
  • Psychological trauma, especially if children or elderly people are involved

Why do these accidents happen?

Most often, it’s preventable. Bus drivers distracted by schedules, GPS, or passengers. Poorly marked loading zones. Tight turns in crowded urban areas. Or simple failure to check blind spots. In winter, snowbanks and icy roads make things worse something we see too often here. If weather played a role, you might want to read how Maine handles negligence in snow-related crashes, since similar rules can apply.

What mistakes do people make after these accidents?

The biggest? Waiting too long to act. Cities have short deadlines sometimes as little as 6 months to file a formal notice of claim. People also assume their own insurance will cover everything, but if a government vehicle is involved, special rules kick in. Others downplay their injuries because “it was just a parked car,” not realizing soft tissue damage or emotional distress counts too.

How do you prove the city or driver was at fault?

Start with evidence: photos of the scene, dashcam footage (buses usually have them), witness statements, and police reports. Maintenance logs for the bus can reveal if brakes or steering were faulty. Driver logs might show fatigue or missed safety checks. Don’t rely on memory write down exactly what happened while it’s fresh. And don’t give recorded statements to city adjusters without legal advice. They’re not on your side.

Should you talk to a lawyer?

If you needed medical care, lost wages, or feel like you’re being brushed off by the city yes. These cases involve layers of bureaucracy and immunity rules that don’t apply to regular car crashes. A local attorney who’s handled cases like yours before knows how to navigate the process without tripping over technicalities. Many offer free consultations, including those familiar with Portland’s specific procedures.

What if the crash happened near construction or roadwork?

That adds another layer. Poor signage, narrowed lanes, or confusing detours can contribute to a bus losing control. If cones were missing or workers blocked sightlines, the construction company might share liability. We’ve seen this come up in places like Bangor here’s how those claims get handled.

For more on government liability rules nationwide, the Nolo guide on suing government entities breaks down basic principles clearly.

Next steps if you’ve been injured:

  • Get medical help immediately even if you feel “fine.” Some injuries take days to show up.
  • Take photos: the bus, the parked car, street signs, skid marks, your injuries.
  • File a police report. Don’t let anyone talk you out of it.
  • Notify the city’s risk management department in writing within 180 days (sooner is better).
  • Keep every receipt: meds, mileage to appointments, even parking fees for doctor visits.
  • Don’t sign anything from the city or their insurer until you’ve talked to someone who knows this area of law.
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