Collisions involving drunk bus drivers are a rare but serious public safety concern. While the number of yearly occurrences is relatively low, accidents involving public vehicles have an increased risk of being severe, leaving passengers with catastrophic or fatal injuries. Therefore, the legal alcohol limit for those with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is lower than it is for drivers of passenger cars. A skilled attorney can help you learn more about drunk driving bus accidents in Miami.
State laws and authorities enforce strict drunk driving regulations for all drivers, particularly for those who hold a CDL. Under the Florida Statutes § 322.61, the maximum blood alcohol content (BAC) allowed for bus drivers is 0.04 percent, which is half of the legal limit for those with a standard driver’s license.
Operators are subject to initial testing during the hiring process, random testing, and post-accident testing, regardless of fault. The lower BAC limit also applies every time commercial drivers operate any vehicle, not just buses.
Our attorneys are experienced in handling cases resulting from drunk driving bus and truck wrecks in Miami and can answer your specific questions about the process and possible recoverable damages during a consultation.
Whether or not you were a passenger on the bus, if you suffered injuries because of a drunk operator, you have rights. You can file a complaint to initiate a legal action and obtain compensation for your injuries and losses. Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means that you must file a claim under your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for payment of your medical bills.
Your auto insurance policy covers up to $10,000 for medical expenses and lost wages. You can proceed with legal action to recover anything in excess of the $10,000.00. The court may award damages, including the cost of health care, lost pay, benefits, earning potential, and pain and suffering.
You should be aware of essential deadlines, as missing them could hinder your chances of recovering 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 accident to alert them of your intention to file a lawsuit.
The state’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the wreck that the impaired bus operator caused. When handling Miami drunk driving bus crashes, our lawyers manage all legal work, including drafting documents and filings, to ensure compliance.
You must hold a bus driver legally and financially accountable if they were under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating chemicals and caused you harm. A compensation claim could cover your economic and non-economic damages and allow you to achieve justice.
Contact our practiced lawyers at Kaire & Heffernan to learn more about drunk driving bus accidents in Miami. Do not wait too long, as there are strict deadlines to meet.
(305) 876-6001