Riding a public bus in Palm Beach County is a daily necessity for many, whether you are commuting along U.S. Highway 1 or traveling through West Palm Beach. While mass transit is generally safe, accidents involving public buses present unique legal challenges. At Altman Law Firm, Jeffrey S. Altman provides guidance to those navigating the aftermath of a bus collision, helping you understand the complexities of Florida law.
Public transportation in Palm Beach County is often operated by government entities. In Florida, these entities are protected by sovereign immunity, which limits how and when they can be sued. Strict notice requirements must be met before a formal claim can even be filed. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your ability to seek compensation, making it vital to understand your position early.
Bus accidents often involve multiple parties, including the transit agency, maintenance contractors, and other drivers. Proving liability requires a thorough investigation into factors like driver fatigue, improper vehicle maintenance, or sudden stops that cause passenger injuries. Because public transit cases involve different rules than standard car accidents, having a clear understanding of the evidence is essential for building a case.
Florida follows a comparative negligence framework. This means that if you are involved in an accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. In the context of a bus accident, the defense may attempt to argue that a passenger was not holding on or was moving while the bus was in motion. We help clients address these arguments by focusing on the facts of the incident.
The time limit to file a lawsuit can vary depending on whether the bus is owned by a private company or a government agency. Claims against government entities often have much shorter notice periods than standard personal injury claims.
Prioritize your medical care first. If you are able, document the bus number, the time of the incident, and the names of any witnesses. Reporting the incident to the transit authority is also an important step.
No. Bus accidents involve common carrier laws, which impose a higher duty of care on the driver, and often involve complex governmental liability statutes that do not apply to private passenger vehicles.
Florida law allows for recovery even if you are partially at fault, though your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Each case depends on the specific evidence presented.
If you have questions about a bus accident in Palm Beach County, contact Altman Law Firm to discuss your situation. Call (305) 373-3730.