Fort Lauderdale Bus Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Fort Lauderdale bus accident, you already know the overwhelming physical pain, emotional distress, and financial uncertainty that follow such a traumatic event. Bus accidents often involve complex circumstances and multiple parties, making it difficult to navigate the legal process on your own.

Without prompt action, you risk missing critical deadlines that could prevent you from obtaining the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care. The David I. Fuchs Injury Law Firm brings decades of experience in personal injury law and is dedicated to fiercely advocating for your rights. With our knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale bus accident attorney by your side, you gain a dedicated ally ready to guide you through the complexities of your bus accident claim and fight for the fair settlement you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.

Fort Lauderdale Bus Accidents Can Leave Destruction and Injury in Their Wake

According to statistics, there are 59,851 registered buses in the state of Florida. This does not include out-of-state charter buses that transport tourists to visit our state. Within Broward County’s 410 square miles, there are 415 fixed-route buses, 94 community shuttle buses, 354 paratransit vehicles, and 7 contracted routes. Again, these figures do not include out-of-county or state charter buses that transport visitors to South Florida.

While most bus trips are finished safely, when the rare crash does occur, these collisions often leave devastating consequences for families who suffer injuries or fatalities. Not knowing what the future holds is a frightening prospect, especially when dealing with immediate physical and emotional pain.

Whether the crash was caused by a negligent bus driver or another dangerous motorist on the road, you could be entitled to compensation for any injuries in the crash. Even if you were in the other car that the bus hit, you could file an injury claim against the bus company.

However, Florida’s car insurance rules make it hard to sue for pain and suffering for an injury and limit the damages you can get in some cases. By working with an experienced Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer, you can better fight to get the compensation you need.

Reach out to the David I. Fuchs Injury Law Firm at 954-751-4258 or complete our online contact form to book a free case evaluation with our bus accident lawyer and get the support you need for your personal injury lawsuit or claim today.

What Kinds of Bus Accident Cases Do I Need a Lawyer for in Fort Lauderdale, FL?

Any bus passenger injured in a bus accident in Fort Lauderdale should consider hiring a lawyer. While it may seem unnecessary if you believe your insurance will cover the damages after being hit by a bus driver, legal assistance is crucial in many cases. Whether the accident involves public transit buses, school buses, private or charter buses, pedestrian or bicyclist collisions, mechanical failures, or driver negligence, having an attorney can make a significant difference.

Bus accidents often cause severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, or even wrongful death, and typically involve multiple parties who may be liable. The legal process can be complicated, especially with Florida’s comparative fault rules, making it difficult to secure full compensation without experienced legal guidance. Additionally, technicalities in car accident and bus accident insurance laws can further complicate the claims process. Working with a bus accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.

In Florida, all auto accidents are subject to no-fault insurance rules. Under these rules, the driver of a vehicle is responsible for paying medical care and lost wages for anyone injured in the vehicle. Conversely, the other driver’s insurance covers injuries sustained in their vehicle. In the case of bus accidents, buses typically carry a large number of passengers, and they are entitled to compensation through the bus company’s insurance. However, both the bus passengers and anyone injured in other vehicles will face the same limitation: pain and suffering damages are not compensated under this system. Additionally, only a percentage of total damages is covered, meaning some damages will always remain unaddressed through this type of insurance claim.

You might be able to get the rest of the damages for medical bills and lost wages through a third-party claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This could be the bus driver’s insurance or the other driver’s insurance, depending on how the accident happened in the first place. Even so, pain and suffering damages are still not covered.

To get pain and suffering damages, you need to show that you have “serious injuries” that qualify for these damages. Our attorney can help you demonstrate that your injuries meet this standard.

Why Choose David I. Fuchs Injury Law Firm?

Suffering injury in a motor vehicle accident can be devastating, potentially leaving you or your loved one in physical pain and emotional anguish, creating a life-altering experience.

Should you choose my law office to represent you in your bus accident case, you can expect to receive compassion, relentless advocacy, and one-on-one personalized assistance. As a solo legal practitioner, you will work directly with me, and your case will receive the attention and care you deserve. I’m not afraid to stand up to big insurance companies, and if necessary, I will take your case to court if you do not receive a fair compensation offer from the insurance company.

With years of experience in personal injury law, David I. Fuchs Injury Law Firm has dedicated itself to assisting victims of bus accidents in Fort Lauderdale and throughout South Florida since 1988.

Successful Settlement Cases We Handled

Our strong track record of success includes recovering hundreds of millions in compensation through settlements and verdicts for our clients. We can help you achieve the same results.

Whether you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a bus accident or any other type of incident, we are here to help you obtain justice and the compensation you need and deserve. Here are some of our recent settlements obtained for our clients:

• $1.8 million for the victim of a traumatic brain injury.
• $325,000 for a client hurt in a multi-vehicle accident.
• $250,000 in a car accident case.
• $225,000 for the family of a victim in a wrongful death lawsuit.
• $120,000 in a Broward County car wreck case.

Testimonials

“Had an accident end of 2014 was hit from behind David Fuchs took care of me from beginning to end. My car was repaired immediately and medical attention was given as I needed with no out of pocket to be worried about. Hopefully I don’t have another accident but if I do he will be the first I call again.” — Jason.

“David Fuchs’s office provides outstanding legal services He is the consummate professional and battles on behalf of his clients to get them the best possible settlements. I would have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending my family members and friends to his office” — Andy.

“Mr. Fuchs went above and beyond the line of duty when I was in my accident. He not only calmed myself and my partner down while I was in the emergency room on off hours but followed up the following day to make sure we were OK. He has always been professional, caring and helpful in making sure that my best interest is at hand. I recommend him to anybody that is in need of a great attorney.” — Tricia.

How Common Are Bus Accidents in Fort Lauderdale?

While buses frequent Fort Lauderdale’s roadways, fortunately, they are less common than car or truck accidents. Florida defines a bus as “a motor vehicle with seating for transporting nine or more persons, including the driver”. This includes school buses, private buses, public transportation, and motor coaches.

In 2023, Florida reported a total of 27,424 passenger bus accidents, with:

• 21 incapacitating injuries
• 261 non-incapacitating injuries
• 907 possible injuries

Florida is listed as one of the top states for bus accidents. Florida, along with New York, Texas, and California, accounts for the most accidents in the U.S. involving buses or large trucks.

What Causes Fort Lauderdale Bus Accidents?

Bus accidents can occur due to several reasons, including driver fatigue, distracted driving, poor vehicle maintenance, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, vehicle malfunctions, adverse weather conditions, road hazards, and traffic violations.

Sadly, many bus crashes are avoidable and often result from driver or third-party negligence. An example of driver negligence would be a bus driver taking off before everyone is safely seated. Drivers work extensive hours and may not be getting adequate rest, despite needing to maintain a schedule. Factors, such as heavy traffic, can exacerbate stressful conditions, as it puts them behind schedule.

What to Do After a Bus Crash?

The immediate aftermath of a bus crash will typically be chaotic. While everyone’s personal safety is a top priority, there are specific steps that anyone involved in this type of accident should take:

• Call 911 to alert law enforcement and emergency services to come to the accident site.
• Seek medical attention for injuries and be evaluated for any hidden injuries (e.g., traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding).
• Take photos and/or video of the crash site and any injuries. If unable, see if someone else can do this for you.
• Gather eyewitness names and contact information.
• Report the incident to the insurance companies.
• Obtain a copy of the police report as soon as it becomes available.

At this stage, it is important to consult with an experienced Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorney. Time is limited to pursue compensation. You do not want to inadvertently miss any important filing deadlines, and it takes time to build a strong case.

What Are Common Bus Accident Injuries?

Even a low-speed or low-impact crash can cause significant injury. Common types of bus accident injuries include:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Internal organ damage
• Lost limbs
• Burns and lacerations

Physical injuries are devastating on their own, but many psychological injuries can occur too, such as mental anguish or PTSD.

Types of Damages a Victim Can Recover

Florida law empowers accident victims to take legal action and pursue compensation to cover losses and damages from personal injuries. Accident victims can potentially recover both economic and non-economic damages.

• Economic damages: These are tangible financial losses, such as medical expenses (past and future), medication, therapy costs, property damage, loss of income, and diminished future earning capacity, among others.
• Non-economic damages: This damage type refers to non-tangible losses that are difficult to attach a specific dollar amount to, such as pain and suffering, PTSD, emotional distress, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium.

In rare cases where the negligent party committed an egregious act, a victim may be awarded punitive damages. These are usually reserved for cases where the defendant is punished for their extreme negligence or to serve as a deterrent to others.

How Much Compensation Can You Get From a Bus Accident?

It is challenging to determine an exact amount of compensation for damages resulting from a bus accident. Several factors will help determine the amount, including injury severity, liability, medical expenses, available insurance, and the impact on the victim’s daily life.

Compensation will be awarded in one of two ways: as a settlement or a trial outcome. A settlement is a negotiation with the insurance companies and/or the defendant’s attorneys to secure a fair level of compensation for the victim.

Insurance companies and their lawyers will typically aggressively fight to deny compensation or undermine a claim. Your bus accident attorney can present evidence with the intent of reaching a settlement that is fair and just.

In cases where a fair settlement agreement cannot be reached, the victim can try to recover compensation through a lawsuit. In this case, your attorney will prepare your case to go to trial. This is a longer process and, if a government bus is involved, can quickly get complex.

Can the Bus Driver Try to Deny Paying?

At-fault parties will typically try to deny their negligence or shift the blame to the victim. Our law firm has seen it all. Should you choose David I. Fuchs to represent you, you can rest assured that we will aggressively work to hold those responsible for your injuries accountable for their actions.

Who Can Be Liable in a Fort Lauderdale Bus Accident?

Potential liable parties in a bus accident could include:

• The bus driver
• The bus company
• City/government
• Maintenance contractors
• Another driver

Florida state law follows comparative negligence principles, which means if multiple parties are found negligent, each is assigned a percentage of responsibility.

How Do I Prove Negligence After a Bus Accident in Florida?

To prove fault and win your case, the following four elements will need to be present:

• Duty of care: Drivers and their employers owe a duty to operate their buses safely and responsibly, ensuring the well-being of passengers in their vehicles, as well as pedestrians and other drivers sharing Florida’s roadways.
• Breach of duty of care: Victims must show that a driver or bus company failed to uphold their duty. Examples of failure include traffic violations, speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, or failing to adequately maintain their buses.
• Causation: This element requires injury victims to demonstrate with evidence how the company’s breach of duty caused an accident leading to injuries.
• Damages: Victims must prove their specific injuries and losses were a direct result of the accident. These include medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

How Long Do I Have to Sue After a Fort Lauderdale Bus Accident?

Florida’s statute of limitations prevents injury victims from suing after a certain period of time. In 2023, Florida actually halved this statute of limitations period from four years to two years. This means bus accident victims, now more than ever, need to act quickly to get compensation for their injuries. In claims against the City or other government employees, the statute of limitations may be different. Consult with a skilled bus accident attorney to know more about the deadlines for filing a claim and receive fair compensation for your losses.

What if the Liable Driver Works for the Government?

Some states have sovereign immunity, which can protect government entities from being subject to lawsuits. Liable drivers working for the government (e.g., a municipality) in South Florida, under the Florida Tort Claims Act, may be subject to a lawsuit if they were negligent while performing their duties and caused an accident. In such cases, the government waives sovereign immunity.

However, there are potential limits on available compensation in cases against a Florida government entity. It is a good idea to speak with an experienced Florida bus accident attorney who can help navigate any complexities that emerge during the claims or court process.

Is the Statute of Limitations Different in Cases Like This?

If the liable driver is a government employee, the statute of limitations may differ from a non-government case. The statute of limitations to sue the government is three years, but the process is different. Wrongful death claims against the government are two years from the date of the death.

Speaking to an attorney when your case involves a government employee is vital. There is specific paperwork to be filed, and your lawyer can make certain that no important deadlines are accidentally missed.

What Evidence Can Prove the Cause of the Accident?

Evidence is a key factor affecting the success of a personal injury case. Examples of important evidence to present include:

• Photos and video
• Police reports
• Traffic camera footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Bus maintenance logs
• Expert testimony
• Surveillance cameras

Can I Receive Compensation if I’m Being Blamed for a Fort Lauderdale Bus Accident?

The Sunshine State follows comparative negligence when it comes to liability. Under this rule, you may recover damages as long as you are found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation award will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributable to you. For example, if you are found 30% at fault for a $10,000 claim, you would receive $7,000. On the other hand, if you are determined to be 51% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any compensation.

Because fault can be disputed and insurance companies often try to assign higher blame to victims to avoid payouts, having an experienced bus accident lawyer is crucial. A skilled attorney can help investigate the accident, gather evidence, and argue your case to minimize your fault percentage and maximize your compensation.

When to Call a Lawyer for a Bus Accident Case in Fort Lauderdale

You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. If you get a lawyer early on in your case, you can have them help you with evidence collection, they can track the medical expenses and other damages you face, and they can work to file claims quickly to help you avoid payment delays.

How Much Will It Cost to Work With a Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale?

In personal injury cases, the majority of attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that if they do not win compensation for you, you will not owe them for their services.

Please note that when you call our law firm for a free consultation, there is no obligation to accept our services on the spot. During our complimentary case evaluations, we explain how we can assist you and inform you of your legal options.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Bus Accident Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one suffers an injury caused by a bus accident, David I. Fuchs Injury Law Firm understands the challenges and fear you likely face about your future, especially when you are striving to recover.

For assistance with your case, call our law office today to schedule your free initial consultation. Our phone number is 954-751-4258. If preferred, you can also fill out our convenient online contact form, and my office will be in touch with you. Our staff speaks English and Spanish.