Legally reviewed by:
Setareh Law
February 18, 2026

Millions of travelers rely on airport shuttles yearly to transport them between terminals, parking lots, rental car facilities, and nearby hotels. While these services provide convenience, they also present unique safety risks. Shuttle accidents at major airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) can result in serious injuries, leaving victims uncertain who bears responsibility.  Between congested roadways, tight schedules, and varying safety standards among shuttle operators, passengers face dangers they may not realize until it’s too late.

If you’ve been injured in an airport shuttle accident in California, Setareh Law can help you work through the legal landscape. With over 60 years of combined experience and more than $250 million recovered for injured clients, our team understands the intricacies of transportation accident cases. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Injuries in a Shuttle Accident?

Determining liability in an airport shuttle accident requires a thorough investigation of multiple potential parties:

  • Shuttle companies may be liable for negligent hiring, inadequate driver training, or failure to maintain vehicles properly
  • Drivers can be held responsible for distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws
  • Airport authorities might share liability if poor road design, insufficient signage, or hazardous conditions contributed to the accident
  • Vehicle manufacturers could be liable if mechanical defects or faulty safety equipment caused or worsened the crash
  • Maintenance contractors may be responsible if improper repairs or missed inspections led to vehicle failures

California’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover compensation even if you bear partial responsibility for the accident. However, your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our attorneys investigate every aspect of your case to ensure all liable parties are identified and held accountable.

What Types of Injuries Commonly Occur in Airport Shuttle Crashes?

Shuttle accidents can cause devastating injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Passengers often lack proper restraints, and shuttles may not have the same safety features as personal vehicles.

Common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries from impacts or being thrown inside the car
  • Spinal cord damage can result in partial or complete paralysis
  • Broken bones and fractures from collisions or falls
  • Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash and muscle strains
  • Internal organ damage from blunt force trauma

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding contributes to approximately one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities. When shuttle drivers rush to meet tight schedules, passengers face increased danger. If your injuries resulted from a driver’s negligence or a company’s failure to prioritize passenger safety, you deserve full compensation for your losses.

How Does California Law Protect Shuttle Accident Victims?

California maintains comprehensive regulations governing commercial passenger vehicles to protect travelers. The California Public Utilities Commission oversees charter-party carriers, including many airport shuttle services, requiring proper licensing, insurance coverage, and safety compliance. Companies must maintain minimum insurance coverage of at least $750,000 per incident, though this amount often proves insufficient for serious accidents involving multiple victims.

The state also enforces strict maintenance and inspection requirements for commercial vehicles. Companies must document regular safety inspections, repairs, and driver training records. Violating federal or state transportation safety regulations can significantly strengthen your compensation claim by demonstrating the company’s negligence.

Contact Setareh Law After Your Airport Shuttle Accident

Airport shuttle accidents can leave you with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your legal rights. Understanding who bears responsibility and how to pursue fair compensation requires experienced legal guidance. California law protects injured passengers, but successfully managing the claims process demands thorough investigation and skillful negotiation with insurance companies.

Setareh Law offers the experience, resources, and dedication to pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Our attorneys are available around the clock to answer your questions and begin building your case. With eight convenient office locations throughout California, we have the proven ability to deliver results. Call us today at (310) 659-1826 for your free consultation, or complete a contact form to discuss your case with our legal team.