Taking a public bus in Miramar should be a safe, reliable way to get to work, school, or run errands around Broward County. But when a massive commercial vehicle like a public transit bus is involved in a collision, the consequences for passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers can be devastating. At the Altman Law Firm, led by Jeffrey S. Altman, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a bus accident can take on your family. We are dedicated to helping injury victims in Miramar navigate the complex legal landscape of municipal liability and insurance claims, standing by your side every step of the way.
Collisions involving Broward County Transit or other municipal buses are fundamentally different from standard auto accidents. When a government entity operates a vehicle, specific legal rules apply, including strict notice requirements and sovereign immunity caps under Florida law. Whether your accident occurred at a busy intersection along Miramar Parkway or near Flamingo Road, investigating these crashes requires gathering maintenance logs, driver history, and onboard surveillance footage. Our team works diligently to preserve this critical evidence before it disappears.
If you were driving a car or crossing the street when a bus struck you, the insurance company or municipality might try to shift the blame onto your shoulders. Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your potential financial recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Furthermore, if you are deemed more than fifty percent responsible, you may be barred from recovering anything at all. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your crash to ensure fault is evaluated fairly.
In a typical Florida personal injury case, the statute of limitations provides a specific window of time to file a lawsuit. However, when a public bus or government agency is involved, the timeline is often much tighter. You are generally required to provide formal written notice to the state or local government agency well before filing a lawsuit. Missing these strict pre-suit notice deadlines can permanently prevent you from pursuing your claim. It is crucial to act promptly so that your rights are protected under Florida law.
First, prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries. If you are able, report the accident to the police so an official report is generated. Collect contact information from the bus driver, other passengers, and witnesses, and take photos of the scene, including the bus number and license plate.
Yes. Passengers injured on a public bus have the right to seek compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Because passengers are rarely at fault for a collision, the primary legal question usually revolves around whether the bus driver, another motorist, or a third party caused the accident.
Liability can fall on several parties depending on the facts of the crash. The bus driver may have been negligent, the transit authority might have failed to properly maintain the vehicle, or another driver could have caused the bus to swerve. We investigate all angles to identify the responsible parties.
Not necessarily. Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements with the insurance company or government agency. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial to advocate for your interests in court.
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 learn how we can help you navigate the legal process. Call (305) 373-3730.