Most people have a general understanding of the best steps to take after a car accident with another individual, but what happens when you suffer injuries and damages in an accident with a bus? It can be difficult to know what to do or where to turn.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from a bus crash, it’s important to know your rights, especially if the government operates the carrier. Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys at David I. Fuchs, Injury & Accident Lawyer, P.A. has over a three decades of experience handling a diverse array of legal disputes, and we have the resources and experience to help navigate our clients through any lawsuit, even those against government entities. a Fort Lauderdale bus accident lawyer can protect your rights and help you figure out the best next steps, so get started today.
What to Know about Commercial Bus Accidents
Commercial busses fall under common carrier law because they provide transportation to the public for a fee. Common carriers may be public entities or privately owned and operated companies. It’s crucial for anyone who has been in an accident with a bus to understand their options for legal recourse.
Proving Negligence in Bus Accident Claims
Just like with any personal injury claim, bus accident lawsuits hinge on the concept of negligence. A plaintiff must prove that a defendant had a duty to act with reasonable care, breached this duty in some way, and this breach of duty caused the plaintiff’s losses. This may seem straightforward in most cases, but common carriers are beholden to a higher duty of care since they provide transportation to the public as part of their business model. Failing to adhere to the highest standards of safety constitutes negligence.
Driver errors like speeding, mechanical failures, and poor driver training place liability on the shoulders of the carrier company. If the common carrier is a public entity, special rules for filing a complaint apply, and it’s very important to act quickly or you could miss the window for filing suit. A proactive Fort Lauderdale attorney could help you respect this statute of limitations and preserve your right to collect compensation for a bus crash.
Who Should you Target with a Bus Crash Claim?
Depending on the type of bus that caused the accident, your resulting lawsuit could take many forms. For example, if another driver caused the bus you were riding to crash, you may need to file a lawsuit against that driver. If the bus driver is at fault, you will need to file a claim against the carrier company. However, if the carrier is government-operated, the claim process is much more complex.
Filing a claim against the government requires meeting specific procedural rules, and these rules can vary greatly from state to state. Failing to meet the deadlines or making any errors on your claim could cause you to lose your right to file a lawsuit. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to file a claim against a government-operated carrier, meet with an attorney as soon as possible. A Fort Lauderdale lawyer is familiar with the procedural rules for filing claims against government agencies and working with one will greatly improve your chances of success in your bus accident claim.
Damages in Bus Accident Lawsuits
If you are filing a claim against a government entity, remember that most states place limits on how much compensation you can win from such a case. However, if your lawsuit is against a privately owned and operated common carrier or an individual driver, you have a bit more flexibility. Compensation in personal injury lawsuits for bus accidents can include:
- Lost income. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work for an extended time you can sue for the wages you would have earned during that time. If your injuries prohibit you from resuming your job, you may be able to sue for the income you would have reasonably expected to earn in the future.
- Medical expenses. You can sue for your hospital bills, prescription costs, rehabilitation costs, fees for any necessary surgeries or procedures, medical devices, and any other expenses resulting from your injuries.
- Pain and suffering. If your injuries were particularly painful, your attorney can call on expert witnesses to testify in court on your behalf. Medical experts can explain how painful a plaintiff’s injuries were so a judge can award an appropriate amount.
- Property damage. You can also sue for the cost of repairing or replacing any personal property damaged or destroyed in the accident.
Speak With a Fort Lauderdale Bus Accident Attorney for Best Results
David I. Fuchs, Injury & Accident Lawyer, P.A. has over three decades of experience representing local clients, so reach out to a Fort Lauderdale bus accident lawyer about how we can help. Bus accident cases can be complicated, especially when a government entity is involved. Call us today to schedule your consultation
David I. Fuchs, Injury & Accident Lawyer, P.A. – Fort Lauderdale Office
8 SE 8th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
P: (954) noswap568-3636
Hundreds of Millions of Dollars Recovered for Clients
Hundreds of Millions of Dollars Recovered for Clients
Testimonials
Fuchs was my car accident attorney and was very responsive from the first call. I had medical care the next day and the whole process was smooth. They handled everything with the insurance companies and coordinated all of the necessary medical information. It was a long process and in the end the settlement I received was much higher than anticipated I am more than happy and grateful for the outcome.
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It’s been a long bumpy road to recovery but with David and his office’s help, we finally got it done! Through a great network of professionals, David Fuchs makes a good experience out of what could’ve been quite a headache. Not only did I get the medical attention I needed but I was compensated handsomely. Thank you!
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I got in an accident in December 2021 when everyone was short staffed and insurance companies was not responsive. My boyfriend reached out to David F. and what a life changing experience. We had the pleasure of having all our worries handed to professional help. They worked diligently on our case, answered questions when asked and kept us updated on changes. More importantly they didn’t settle for anything and my boyfriend and I got what we deserved. I have dealt with others in the past but David got me the most according to the facts presented and never backed down when the insurance companies tried to make us settle for less. Thank you David, Jessica and the team for all your effort and hard work. I will recommend them to family and friends. [They’re] the best in town!
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I highly recommend Law offices of David Fuchs. Mr. Fuchs and his staff were very helpful. The case was handled in a timely manner and I was always informed if there were any changes or updates with my case.
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Mr. Fuchs is one of the hardest working attorneys that I know. He is really good at what he does and puts 110% in you case. I have been using him for 19 years now and refer all my friends to him. I can leave him alone with my case and not call him all the time. I know he is working hard in my case. When he has any information he calls me and we go from there. There are not a lot of attorneys I can do that with! If you have any Personal Injuries please do call him. You won’t be disappointed!!
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At first I was afraid…I was petrified! I truly was! But the extensive knowledge, patience and professionalism I received brought me not only such peace and assurance that I was in good hands, but we got through my case like shining stars! David made sure I understood exactly what, when, where, why and [answered] whatever question I had. I would definitely refer to this firm as the go-to Florida personal injury gurus.
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…took care of my well-being [and were] very informative about my situation. [T]hey were on the ball when it came down to settling…I highly recommend David.
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I got a really good return… thank you David Fuchs and staff for being so helpful and working so hard to help us, you are appreciated.
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The David I Fuchs law office is a group of excellent people that helped to their fullest potential. They treated me with respect and I really appreciate that. This is a great law office.
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It has been an unexpected journey since stepping foot in Florida. Never did I imagine myself getting into an accident. I just want to thank the staff and all the support. The Therapy the doctors; you guys were awesome and made me feel better in my situation. This the first time I ever experience such a thing but I’m blessed , thankful and behind it all DAVID FUCHS who made it happen for me.
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I would totally recommend David to everyone. They’re extremely professional and work in a timely manner. They helped tremendously!
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A good man knows, his law 35 years experience. Will get the job done and help you and your family get compensated for you pain and damages. I highly recommend this man. I want to revisit my review and say that Mr. Fuchs always picks up his phone and answer any questions that may pertain to my case. Thank you, David.
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David Fuchs was my car accident attorney. He was able to settle my case with little to no trouble and did so in a very professional manner. I would highly recommend him to others.
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I got into an accident for the first time and I didn’t know what do or how things works, but I was lucky to find a professional and helpful people to guide through this experience.
They did take care of my case all went good and successful thank you so much for all your help.
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I was in a car accident and looking for a professional, caring attorney.I was fortunate to find Mr. Fuchs, who helped me through the whole process. He was there every time I called and got me a great settlement.
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Had a car accident and needed an advocate to communicate my concerns through my insurance provider. The law office of David Fuchs, was efficient and thorough. My settlement was fast, fair and professionally handled. Would highly recommend giving this office a call if you need legal assistance.
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I want to thank the office of David Fuch’s. A+++++ recommended.
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They were very helpful. I could not have asked for a better team by my side.
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I was in an accident mid last year and Mr. Fuchs handled my case and his case manager[s] Yessi and Jessica were very informative as to the process. They got me my settlement pretty quickly and worked hard on my case for me. Mr. Fuchs was extremely knowledgeable and informed me of everything that would happen in my case. I will recommend this firm to my family and friends and i will be using their services in future if need be.
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