Bus accidents can result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicle, combined with the fact that passengers often aren’t restrained by seat belts. If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our experienced Florida bus accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal complexities and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Florida
Bus accidents can occur for various reasons, including:
- Driver Negligence: Distracted driving, speeding, or failing to follow traffic laws.
- Mechanical Failures: Faulty brakes, engine problems, or improper vehicle maintenance.
- Weather Conditions: Poor weather such as heavy rain, fog, or strong winds that reduce visibility or road traction.
- Third-Party Negligence: Other drivers on the road may contribute to accidents by violating traffic laws or driving recklessly.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Florida Bus Accident?
Bus accidents can be complex, often involving multiple parties who may be held liable. Depending on the circumstances, the following entities could be responsible for your injuries:
- Bus Driver: If the driver was negligent in their actions, they may be liable for the accident.
- Bus Company: The company that owns the bus may be responsible for improper maintenance or hiring negligent drivers.
- Third-Party Drivers: Other vehicles that contributed to or caused the accident.
- Government Entities: In the case of public buses, local government agencies may be held liable if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle or ensure the driver was fit for duty.
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Bus Accident Settlement Example
$100,000 Settlement for a Bus Accident
On the day of this unfortunate accident, our client was traveling as a passenger on a Pinellas County bus in Clearwater, FL when the defendant failed to stop at a stop sign and caused a T-bone collision with the bus. The defendant was found at fault and cited by the police for causing the accident.
Our client was checked out in the emergency room for neck and back complaints and discharged. She followed up with a local chiropractor who began treating her on a regular basis. The chiropractor ordered at MRI scan for our client’s persistent back pain. That scan showed a herniated disc in her lower back for which she was referred to an orthopedic specialist for evaluation. The specialist agreed with the diagnosis of a herniated lumbar disc and recommended a procedure to relieve the pressure on the nerves in our client’s back. Our client agreed to the operation, and it was performed about six months after the accident. Fortunately, our client had a good result from the surgery which greatly improved her symptoms.
After we submitted a comprehensive demand package in an effort to settle the claim, the defendant’s insurance company requested that we provide prior medical records concerning multiple accidents our client had been involved in. The prior records revealed that our client had experienced similar symptoms in the past and led the insurance company to argue that the bus accident was not the cause of her injuries. They initially offered $60,000.00 even though our client’s medical expenses alone exceeded that amount. We aggressively negotiated with them exchanging multiple demands and offers until they ultimately agreed to pay $100,000.00 to settle the claim. Our client decided to accept the offer rather than proceed with litigation, and we were able to reduce her medical bills by approximately 60% ensuring that she received a fair recovery. She was happy with the result and with our representation.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bus Accidents
Given the size of buses and the often unrestrained nature of passengers, injuries from bus accidents can be severe, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Internal organ damage
While bus accidents are a serious concern, it’s also important for parents to be aware of when a child can sit in the front seat, especially when transitioning from public transportation to personal vehicles, to ensure their safety across all forms of travel.
What to Do After a Bus Accident
If you’ve been injured in a bus accident, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, some injuries can manifest later. A doctor’s evaluation is critical for your health and for documenting your injuries.
- Document the Accident: If possible, gather witness information, take photos of the scene, and record details of the event.
- Contact an Experienced Bus Accident Attorney in Tampa, Florida: A nearby bus accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, investigate the accident, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Contact a Florida Bus Accident Lawyer Near You
At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our dedicated bus accident injury lawyers have over 35 Years of experience handling personal injury cases. We understand the complexities involved in bus accident claims, and we are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation for your injuries. Our team will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
No Fees Unless You Win
We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our focus is on your recovery, both physical and financial.
How Hiring Our Experienced Legal Team Can Make a Big Difference in Compensation
Initial Offer | Final Result | The AU Difference |
---|---|---|
$1,500,000 | $5,000,000 | $3,500,000 |
$0 | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
$300,000 | $1,600,000 | $1,300,000 |
$0 | $1,575,000 | $1,575,000 |
$675,000 | $1,330,000 | $655,000 |
$0 | $1,260,000 | $1,260,000 |
$450,000 | $1,250,000 | $800,000 |
$300,000 | $1,074,168 | $774,168 |
$500,000 | $1,000,000 | $500,000 |
$80,000 | $938,077 | $858,077 |
$125,000 | $690,000 | $565,000 |
$7,500 | $650,000 | $642,500 |
$50,000 | $775,000 | $725,000 |
$58,644 | $525,000 | $466,356 |
$9,000 | $450,000 | $441,000 |
$55,000 | $455,000 | $400,000 |
$65,000 | $650,000 | $585,000 |
$55,000 | $500,000 | $445,000 |