Riding a Broward County Transit bus along Pines Boulevard or Flamingo Road is a daily routine for many in Pembroke Pines. While public transportation is generally safe, collisions and onboard incidents do happen. When a public bus is involved in a crash, the resulting injuries can be severe, and the legal process that follows is often uniquely complicated. At Altman Law Firm, led by Jeffrey S. Altman, we represent individuals who have been hurt in public transit accidents across South Florida. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an unexpected injury takes, and we are here to help you understand your legal options.
Accidents involving public transportation are not handled like standard car crashes. Because public buses are operated by government entities like Broward County, claims are subject to Florida sovereign immunity laws. This means there are strict caps on how much compensation can be recovered and rigid, shortened deadlines for filing a notice of claim. Navigating these bureaucratic hurdles requires a thorough understanding of state statutes. Our team meticulously investigates the circumstances of your accident to build a strong foundation for your claim before these critical deadlines pass.
Pembroke Pines is a bustling city with heavy traffic, especially during rush hours on major arteries like University Drive and Sheridan Street. Bus accidents can occur due to a variety of factors, including distracted driving, sudden stops causing passengers to fall, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or the negligence of other drivers sharing the road. Whether you were a passenger on the bus, a pedestrian at a crosswalk, or the driver of another vehicle, identifying the root cause of the crash is a vital step. We work to uncover evidence such as traffic camera footage, maintenance logs, and witness statements to determine liability.
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the incident, your potential compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Furthermore, if you are deemed more than fifty percent responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages altogether. Insurance companies and municipal defense teams often use this rule to shift blame away from the bus operator. Having legal representation can help ensure that your side of the story is clearly presented and that fault is assessed fairly based on the facts of the case.
Dealing with government agencies and their insurance adjusters while trying to recover from an injury can feel overwhelming. Jeffrey S. Altman and the team at Altman Law Firm handle the heavy lifting of accident investigation, complex insurance negotiations, and, if necessary, taking your case to trial. We approach every situation with empathy and dedication, keeping you informed at every stage of the process. Our goal is to advocate for your rights so you can focus entirely on your physical and emotional recovery.
In Florida, claims against government entities require a specific pre-suit notice, typically within a strict timeframe. Additionally, the general statute of limitations for most personal injury negligence cases is two years from the date of the accident. Because sovereign immunity rules impose complex deadlines, it is important to consult a lawyer promptly to avoid losing your right to file a claim.
Yes, passengers injured on a public bus can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, because the bus is government-operated, the process involves navigating sovereign immunity caps and specific administrative procedures that differ from private vehicle claims.
First, seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor at the time. Report the accident to the police and bus driver, ensuring an official report is filed. If possible, collect contact information from witnesses and take photos of the scene. Finally, consider reaching out to a personal injury attorney before giving recorded statements to municipal insurance adjusters.
Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiated settlements before reaching a courtroom. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached with the municipality or insurance company, taking the case to trial may be necessary. Altman Law Firm prepares every case thoroughly to ensure we are ready for any scenario.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a public bus accident, contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Call (305) 373-3730.