Getting into an accident while riding the bus to work or school can disrupt your entire day. As a passenger, you have no control over these situations, which can be very frustrating. Unfortunately, being in a collision while riding public transportation can leave you in pain, facing rising expenses, and under the overwhelming stress of not knowing what to do next.
The aftermath of a bus accident can be a challenging time for you and your family. You may be uncertain whether you have a valid legal claim arising from the accident. You may be at a loss with how to proceed. You may not know who is liable or what you’re entitled to.
Our Tampa bus accident lawyers can help! We can give you the advice and counsel you need to move forward.
What Are the Laws Concerning Bus Accidents in Tampa?
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning you must submit a claim with your insurance company before pursuing a lawsuit against the at-fault party. You can only file suit if your damages exceed what is covered by your insurance policy.
The bus driver or transportation company could be held liable for damages if the vehicle is privately-owned. You may also seek damages from a government municipality if the accident occurred on a public transportation vehicle.
The window of time to file a personal injury claim is limited to four years from the date of the accident, according to § 95.11(3) of the 2019 Florida Statutes. Though it may seem like you have plenty of time, you should promptly obtain legal counsel to avoid missing the chance to file your bus accident claim.
What Damages Could I Recover after a Collision?
There are three types of damages you may recover after a bus accident
- Economic- Economic damages are calculated by their monetary value. This type of compensation may cover lost wages, medical costs, and other financial losses.
- Non-economic- Non-economic damages are associated with emotional losses that do not have concrete, economic value. Pain and suffering are often covered in a non-economic damages award.
- Punitive – Punitive damages, such as fines or jail time, are often associated with accidents that involve some criminal element. You do not typically receive monetary compensation from a punitive damages award. This type of ruling is meant to deter the at-fault party from engaging in similar behavior again. The fines issued are usually paid to the state.
A personal injury attorney experienced with bus accident cases could help you identify the most appropriate defendant and seek the maximum amount of compensation available.
How a Tampa Bus Accident Attorney Could Help You
A bus accident can be a traumatic experience, whether you are a passenger, a pedestrian, or another driver. Aside from significant property damage, bus collisions can result in injury to several people. The aftermath of a bus accident can be a challenging time for you and your family. You may be at a loss with how to proceed, but you should not have to bear the financial burden of an accident caused by someone else.
You may feel the need to handle your case alone, but pursuing a claim without adequate representation can be risky. Insurance companies may attempt to take advantage of you, and you may lose out on just compensation. Obtaining legal services could help you achieve success. Our Tampa bus accident lawyers can help! We can give you the advice and counsel you need to move forward.
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