Buses offer a convenient, economical, and environmentally sound way for many Floridians to travel. Unfortunately, serious injuries can happen when these large vehicles are involved in collisions. The St. Augustine bus accident attorneys at Emerson Straw PL know how tragic these wrecks can be and are proud to provide tenacious legal representation to victims and their families.
We will use all the resources at our disposal to give your case the best chance of success. Call today for a free consultation.
Buses and St. Augustine Law
Buses are what are known as common carriers. This simply means that they take on passengers for a fare. Because of this, the bus company assumes a duty to protect these passengers from any foreseeable harm. This includes a duty to protect them from the negligence of their own drivers.
However, busing companies also maintain a duty to protect non-passengers. This is the same duty that all motorists have to protect other people. Therefore, other drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and even pedestrians can sue negligent bus companies for the actions of their drivers.
No matter who the injured person is in the case, they will have only a limited time to file a claim. This is because Florida has enacted a statute of limitations on all personal injury cases that determine when a court will hear a case.
According to Florida Statute §95.11, plaintiffs must act within four years of the date of the accident. Any failure to do so may result in a court refusing to hear the case and any insurance companies could cease all settlement negotiations.
Common Types of Injuries in Bus Accident Cases
Buses are large vehicles that easily dwarf most other objects on the road. As a result, any collision between a bus and a passenger car is likely to end poorly for the occupants of that smaller car. People involved in these accidents may be lucky to escape with their lives.
In addition, the passengers inside the bus are also vulnerable. Buses rarely have seatbelts and a collision can result in an individual being thrown around the inside of a cabin. Typical injuries suffered in these accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Separated joints
- Spinal cord injuries
- Brain damage
- Burns
- Amputations
A bus accident claim can demand compensation for all the medical costs associated with treating these injuries. This includes payments for future medical costs. However, a truly comprehensive claim will also demand payment for any economic losses and mental anguish. A St. Augustine bus accident lawyer could work to determine the full value of someone’s case and to demand maximum compensation.
Let a St. Augustine Bus Accident Lawyer Help
Bus accidents are serious, chaotic events in a person’s life. Even a minor incident could require a trip to an emergency room and months of rehabilitation. While many people may be expected to make a full recovery, others may suffer permanent losses due to the negligence of bus drivers.
Whether an injured person is a passenger on that bus, a driver in their own car, or even a pedestrian, they have the right under Florida law to demand compensation for their losses. A St. Augustine bus accident lawyer could help you fight back against the insurance companies and to press their claims for maximum compensation. Contact an attorney today to schedule a consultation.
