Bus accidents can be extremely dangerous, often involving multiple vehicles and causing significant injuries or even death. If you were hurt or a loved one was killed in an incident involving a bus, you need experienced legal counsel to help you pursue a compensation claim.
Our personal injury attorneys at The Florida Firm are well-known for obtaining substantial compensation for our injured clients—we have achieved numerous seven- and even eight-figure verdicts and settlements. Our firm is so trusted that the majority of our cases come from referrals from other attorneys and law firms. When you work with a Kissimmee bus accident lawyer from our firm, you receive skilled, aggressive representation from a team of legal professionals committed to your best interests.
How Does the State No-Fault Law Apply to Bus Wrecks?
Florida follows the no-fault system for vehicle accident claims. You must show proof of at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage when you register a car in the state. This coverage pays for medical treatment and partial wages after an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
When you are involved in an accident involving a bus, your PIP coverage would typically cover your initial expenses. If you were a passenger on the bus, a pedestrian, or a cyclist and have no PIP coverage, the bus company provides the coverage. If you were in another vehicle involved in the accident, you would file a claim with the vehicle owner’s PIP if you do not have your own.
The claims process could be complicated, especially if you must work through the bus company’s insurer. Our attorneys in Kissimmee could help you file your initial claim after the bus crash, document your expenses, and work with your creditors to relieve any financial pressure during your recovery. Additionally, we have staff members designated to assist you with applications for disability and any other benefits to which you may be entitled.
Pursuing a Bus Accident Claim in Court
Bus accidents often cause significant injuries, and PIP coverage is rarely adequate to cover your losses in that case. You must meet two requirements to secure compensation for a bus accident claim in court. Your injuries must be serious as the law defines the term, and you must prove that another party’s negligence was the direct cause of your injuries.
Florida Statutes § 627.737 defines a serious injury as one that caused significant permanent scarring, led to the loss of a body part or impairment of a significant bodily function, or is unlikely to heal despite medical intervention. Any injury that could cause death is also considered a serious injury under the law.
Proving that another party is liable requires you to establish that they were negligent and their negligence was the direct cause of your injuries. Bus companies are common carriers under federal law, so the company and its drivers must meet a high standard to avoid being found negligent. They must use the utmost care to avoid causing harm to others. Different standards may apply when bringing claims against the drivers of other involved vehicles, vehicle manufacturers, or other parties who might have some responsibility for the incident.
Establishing Damages After a Common Carrier Collision
When you suffer a serious injury in a bus accident, you could file a lawsuit against the responsible party seeking damages. Your damages could include:
- Medical expenses not covered by PIP
- Wages not reimbursed, and the value of paid time off you used during your recovery
- Future medical treatment related to the injury
- Compensation for reduced earning capacity, if you cannot return to work due to your injury
- Incidental expenses
- Money for diminished quality of life, often called pain and suffering damages
You could also pursue punitive damages if there is proof that a responsible party acted intentionally to cause harm or with willful disregard for the potential danger to others. Our Kissimmee bus collision lawyers could review the circumstances of your accident to look for evidence that could support a claim for punitive damages.
Consult a Kissimmee Bus Accident Attorney About Your Legal Case
If a bus accident left you badly injured, trust the experienced lawyers at Colling Gilbert Wright to hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue fair compensation for your injuries. Our entire team brings decades of successful litigation experience to apply to your case. Our Kissimmee bus accident lawyer will provide aggressive, effective advocacy to help you move forward after the accident. We work on a contingency basis, so contact us today at no risk or obligation.