Taking the bus around North Miami is a daily routine for many, whether you are commuting on Biscayne Boulevard, heading down NE 125th Street, or hopping on a Miami-Dade Metrobus to get across town. Unfortunately, when a massive public transit vehicle is involved in a collision, the consequences for passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers can be devastating. If you or a loved one has been injured in a public bus accident, the Altman Law Firm is here to help. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our Miami-based team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these crashes take, and we are dedicated to helping you navigate the complex claims process against government entities and transit authorities.
Accidents involving public buses are significantly more complicated than standard car crashes. Because buses are often operated by government entities like Miami-Dade County, claims are subject to sovereign immunity laws. Under Florida law, there are strict notice requirements and a shorter statute of limitations when filing a claim against a government agency. Failing to file the proper paperwork within these tight deadlines can bar you from seeking compensation altogether. Our team thoroughly investigates the circumstances of the crash, identifies all liable parties, and ensures that every procedural requirement is met so your rights remain protected.
Navigating the busy intersections of North Miami, such as Dixie Highway and NE 135th Street, requires immense skill from bus operators. Collisions can happen due to distracted driving, driver fatigue, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or sudden stops that throw passengers off balance. Sometimes, other negligent drivers cut off large buses, causing unavoidable chain reactions. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence standard, meaning multiple parties can share fault for a single accident. We work diligently to gather evidence, from onboard camera footage to maintenance logs, to build a clear picture of what happened and who should be held accountable.
The sheer size and weight of a public bus mean that accidents often result in severe injuries, from broken bones and spinal cord trauma to traumatic brain injuries. Victims frequently face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs. In the most tragic cases, families may need to pursue a wrongful death claim. While we cannot promise specific financial outcomes, the Altman Law Firm approaches every case with a commitment to thorough preparation. Whether through aggressive insurance negotiation or taking the matter to trial when necessary, Jeffrey S. Altman and our team will stand by your side throughout the legal process.
Florida law imposes strict deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, for personal injury claims. When a government entity is involved, such as a county transit authority, there are also mandatory pre-suit notice requirements that must be filed much sooner than a typical car accident claim. It is crucial to consult a lawyer promptly to avoid missing these critical deadlines.
First, prioritize your health by seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine initially. If you are able, report the accident to law enforcement, gather contact information from other passengers and witnesses, and take photos of the scene. Do not give a recorded statement to the transit authority's insurance adjusters before speaking with legal counsel.
Yes, you may still be able to recover damages. Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are found to be more than fifty percent responsible for the crash, you may be barred from recovering compensation.
Liability can extend to several parties, including the bus driver, the transit authority or government entity operating the bus, third-party maintenance companies, or other negligent drivers on the road. A thorough investigation is necessary to identify all responsible parties.
We offer free initial consultations to discuss the details of your public bus accident. During this meeting, we will review your situation and explain how our fee structure works, ensuring you understand the process before moving forward.
If you have been injured in a North Miami public bus accident, contact the Altman Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you navigate the legal road ahead. Call (305) 373-3730.