Being involved in a public bus accident can turn a normal day in Delray Beach into a confusing and painful ordeal. Whether you were riding a Palm Tran bus down Atlantic Avenue, struck at a crosswalk, or hit while driving along Linton Boulevard, accidents involving municipal vehicles bring unique legal hurdles. At Altman Law Firm, we understand the physical and emotional toll these collisions take. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our team is committed to helping injured individuals in Palm Beach County navigate the complexities of claims against government entities and transit authorities.
Claims involving public transportation, such as city or county buses, are fundamentally different from standard car accident cases. Under Florida law, sovereign immunity often applies to government entities, which can cap the amount of compensation available and impose strict notice requirements. This means you typically have a much shorter window to notify the transit authority of your intent to file a claim compared to the standard statute of limitations for personal injury. Navigating these administrative hurdles requires careful attention to detail to ensure your right to seek compensation is preserved.
Delray Beach sees heavy traffic, especially during the peak winter months. Public buses navigating tight downtown streets, busy intersections near I-95, or frequent stops along Federal Highway face numerous hazards. Accidents can stem from driver fatigue, inadequate bus maintenance, improper training, or the negligence of other drivers on the road. Because buses lack standard safety features like seatbelts and airbags for passengers, even a minor collision or a sudden stop can cause severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and spinal cord damage.
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, for example, if you were a pedestrian crossing outside of a designated crosswalk when struck by a bus, your potential compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are deemed more than 50 percent responsible, you may be barred from financial recovery altogether. Thorough accident investigation, gathering witness statements, and reviewing traffic camera footage are vital steps in establishing clear liability and protecting your interests.
Taking on a large municipality or transit authority can feel overwhelming, especially while you are trying to heal. Jeffrey S. Altman and the team at Altman Law Firm have extensive experience handling complex personal injury matters across South Florida. We handle the heavy lifting, from investigating the crash site in Palm Beach County to negotiating with insurance adjusters and government representatives. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.
While the standard statute of limitations for personal injury in Florida is generally two years, claims against government entities like public transit authorities require a formal notice much sooner. You typically must provide written notice of your claim to the specific agency within three years, but strict administrative deadlines often apply. It is crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.
Yes. If you were injured as a passenger on a public bus, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Liability may fall on the bus driver, the transit authority, or another negligent driver who caused the collision.
First, seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor. Report the accident to law enforcement so an official crash report is created. If you are able, collect contact information from other passengers and witnesses, and take photos of the scene. Finally, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney before speaking with the transit authority's insurance adjusters.
Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements before reaching a courtroom. However, if the transit authority or insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, filing a lawsuit and proceeding to trial may be necessary. Our team prepares every case as if it will go to trial.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a public bus accident, contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your legal options. Call (305) 373-3730.