A serious accident involving a public bus can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether you were a passenger on a Miami-Dade Metrobus, a pedestrian near Homestead Station, or a driver navigating busy intersections along Campbell Drive, collisions involving large transit vehicles often result in significant injuries. At the Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on families in South Florida. We are here to help you understand your legal options and navigate the complex process of pursuing a claim against a government entity.
Taking action after a crash with a public bus is very different from a standard car accident. Because public transit vehicles, such as those operated by Miami-Dade County, are government-owned, claims are subject to Florida's sovereign immunity laws. This means there are statutory caps on how much compensation can be recovered and rigid pre-suit notice requirements. Missing a deadline to formally notify the correct government agency can bar your claim entirely. Having a legal advocate who understands these specific procedural hurdles is crucial for protecting your rights.
Homestead's growing population means heavier traffic on major arteries like US-1, Krome Avenue, and the Florida Turnpike. Public bus accidents in these areas can happen for a variety of reasons. Driver fatigue, distracted driving, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or sudden stops can all lead to devastating collisions. Whether a bus driver failed to yield the right of way near the downtown transit center or a mechanical failure caused a crash on South Dixie Highway, identifying the root cause of the accident is a vital part of our investigation process.
Building a strong case requires immediate and thorough investigation. We work to secure vital evidence, which may include onboard camera footage, maintenance logs, and electronic data recorders from the bus. Jeffrey S. Altman and our legal team will handle the complex negotiations with government risk management departments and their insurance representatives. While many cases are resolved through careful negotiation, we prepare every claim with the readiness to go to trial if that is what it takes to seek the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care.
Florida law imposes strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims. When a government entity is involved, such as a county transit authority, you must also provide a formal written notice of your claim well before a lawsuit can be filed. Because these deadlines are shorter and more complex than typical auto accidents, it is important to consult a lawyer promptly.
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means you may still be able to recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the accident, provided your share of the blame is not greater than 50 percent. Your total recovery would simply be reduced by your percentage of fault.
In most cases involving public employees acting within the scope of their employment, Florida law directs that claims be brought against the government agency itself rather than the individual driver. However, there are exceptions if the driver acted with malicious purpose or willful disregard for human rights and safety.
Victims of bus accidents may seek compensation for economic damages like past and future medical expenses, lost income, and property damage. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress, may also be pursued, though claims against government entities are subject to statutory damage caps.
It is generally a good idea to have an attorney review any settlement offer before you sign. Initial offers may not fully account for long-term medical care, future lost wages, or the true extent of your pain and suffering. Once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot ask for more later.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a public bus accident, contact the Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options in Homestead. Call (305) 373-3730.