While collisions involving public transportation, such as buses, are less common than those involving regular cars, the consequences can be devastating when they do occur. The size and weight of the vehicles, combined with the lack of safety equipment such as airbags and seatbelts, can result in passengers sustaining life-altering injuries.
Those outside of the vehicle are also at significant risk of severe or fatal injuries. To prevent catastrophic collisions, federal and state agencies closely regulate the bus industry. When bus drivers fail to adhere to the guidelines and their carelessness causes harm, victims may seek compensation. A skilled attorney from Kaire & Heffernan could provide you with more details about damages in Miami bus accident cases.
Accidents involving public buses and other common carriers can happen for many of the same reasons as other road and highway incidents. They often result from negligence. Some of the most typical causes include:
A Miami attorney who is experienced with recovering damages in bus collision cases will determine the cause and responsible party and help you obtain a fair settlement.
If you were a passenger or outside of the vehicle and suffered injuries because of bus operator negligence, personal injury laws protect you from financial harm. Florida insurance laws follow a no-fault insurance system, which means you file a claim under your policy’s personal injury protection (PIP) for the cost of medical care. You then need to prepare a claim and file a petition with the court to demonstrate liability. The case must show that the Miami defendant failed to use reasonable care, leaving you with verifiable losses after a bus wreck.
Your auto insurance policy covers up to $10,000 for injuries and lost wages. When your damages exceed the insurance policy limit, you have other options for pursuing compensation. The court may award damages, including the cost of health care, lost pay, benefits, earning potential, and pain and suffering.
There are essential deadlines to be aware of, as missing them could hinder your ability to recover monetary damages. You must notify your automobile insurance provider within 30 days to obtain a payout under PIP coverage. If a government agency operates the bus, you must mail them a Notice of Claim within three years of the incident to alert them of your intentions to file a lawsuit.
The state’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the cause of action. Our lawyers will handle the legal work, document drafting, and filings to ensure compliance with the deadline.
If the careless actions of a bus operator or a third party caused you injuries and other losses, you can hold them legally and financially accountable. A claim for damages could cover your out-of-pocket expenses and non-monetary losses when the PIP coverage from your auto insurance policy is not sufficient.
Do not wait to obtain legal representation, as missing the strict deadlines to file a claim could mean losing your ability to obtain a settlement. Contact our practiced lawyers at Kaire & Heffernan to learn more about damages in Miami bus accident cases.
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