What To Do After A Bus Accident in Florida?

While mass transit options, like buses, are convenient methods of commuting throughout the state of Florida, they can also be quite dangerous. That is, there have been reported injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries, among others, as a direct result of a bus accident. If you, unfortunately, suffer an injury from a bus accident, then follow along to find out how a proficient Riverview bus accident lawyer at The Frank Santini Law Firm can help you in building your claim.

What are the Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Florida?

Sometimes, a bus accident may occur due to other reckless drivers on the road. Or, they can be blamed on a careless bus company. But almost always, bus accidents commonly occur in the state of Florida due to the negligence of a bus driver. Examples of such negligence include, but may not be limited to, the following:

• A bus driver stops the bus and releases passengers in unsafe areas.
• A bus driver starts driving before ensuring that all passengers are seated.
• A bus driver makes sudden starts and stops.
• A bus driver prematurely closes the doors on passengers.
• A bus driver fails to have proper safety equipment on board.
• A bus driver practices reckless driving:
  • Fails to check large blind spots before merging or changing lanes.
  • Fails to check traffic stops and signs before proceeding.
  • Speeds.
  • Drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Drives distracted by navigating the GPS or texting.
  • Drives while fatigued.

Do I have to file a Notice of Claim for my bus accident injury?

When it comes to public transportation accidents like a bus accident, you may have less time to bring your claim forward than the state of Florida’s statute of limitations allows, which is generally four years from the date of your accident. This is because you will have to file a Notice of Claim first and do so within three years from the date of your accident. Then, you will have to wait at least 180 days before you can file your personal injury claim.

Steps to Take After A Bus Accident in Florida

In addition to filing a Notice of Claim, you must also remember to do the following immediately after your bus accident:

1. Call 911 so that a law enforcement officer can conduct an accident report and dispatch an ambulance.
2. Take photos and videos so that your injuries, damages, and the overall scene are fully documented.
3. Collect the contact information of the bus driver and any present witnesses who can support your claim later on.
4. Go to medical treatment at the scene and later on at the hospital so that your medical documents and bills are fully collected.
5. Retain the services of a talented Riverview, FL personal injury lawyer so that you can have strong legal representation for your claim later on.

Your Legal Options After a Bus Accident in Florida

If you were injured in a bus accident, you may be facing severe physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Give our firm a call today to speak with our dedicated and experienced bus accident lawyer today. We are on your side no matter what you are facing.

Common Types of Bus Accident Injuries in Florida

Bus accidents are normally unpredictable, and in some cases, buses can roll or topple over in an accident, resulting in a wide variety of injuries. Other times, another negligent driver can cause the accident or even a faulty part in the bus itself. Some of the most common bus accident injuries include the following:

• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Scarring
• Loss of limb
• Spine injuries
• Sprains

Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Bus Accident Claims

Keep in mind that the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is, typically, four years. However, this is not always the case when it comes to bus accidents. In most instances, bus businesses are state-owned, which suggests that you will have to file a Notice of Claim in a briefer period of time.

In Florida, you are instructed to file a Notice of Claim within three years of the date of your accident. After you have done this, you will need to wait at least 180 days to file your personal injury claim. It is critical that you do not miss these deadlines, because if you do, it is highly likely that you will be unable to file this claim entirely ever again. Reach out to our firm today to ensure that you have a skilled attorney on your side to help you meet all of your claim’s important deadlines.

Contact Our Firm

For a skilled personal injury lawyer you can trust, contact The Frank Santini Law Firm today for a free initial consultation.

About The Author

Frank Santini

Frank Santini, Esq., is a highly accomplished personal injury attorney and the founder of The Frank Santini Law Firm, specializing in personal injury law. A summa cum laude graduate of Stetson University College of Law, Frank is licensed in Florida and New Jersey and has earned recognition as a Rising Star" by Super Lawyers and high ratings from Martindale-Hubbell. Education: Graduated summa cum laude from Stetson University College of Law. Professional Associations: Member of The Florida Bar and the New Jersey Bar. Experience: Founder of The Frank Santini Law Firm, representing personal injury clients with dedication and expertise.

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