Why Do Bus Accidents Commonly Occur in Florida?

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Many Florida residents rely on mass transportation systems, such as buses, to get from place to place. And while buses are generally safe, accidents are still reported far too often in the state of Florida. Continue reading to learn why bus accidents commonly occur and how an experienced Tampa bus accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A., can assist you in the unfortunate event that you are involved in one. 

Why do bus accidents commonly occur in the state of Florida?

More often than not, bus accidents are caused by the negligence of bus drivers. Examples of such negligence, which is also generally seen with any type of driver on Florida roads, are as follows: 
  • Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 
  • Driving while fatigued.
  • Driving while distracted with texting or navigating a GPS. 
  • Speeding. 
  • Failing to abide by traffic signs and signals. 
However, examples of such negligence which is specific to bus drivers are as follows:
  • Driving before all passengers are seated. 
  • Making sudden stops and starts.
  • Discharging passengers in unsafe areas. 
  • Prematurely closing the bus doors. 
  • Failing to check large blind spots before merging or changing lanes. 
  • Failing to allow sufficient time to brake.
  • Failing to ensure that proper safety equipment is on board.

How long do I have to file my bus accident claim?

If you were made a victim of a bus accident, and you suffered significant injuries and damages as a result, then you may be eligible for a personal injury claim. And with a successful claim, you may be entitled to the financial compensation that you require to recover your damages and heal.  But before all else, you must file your personal injury claim before Florida’s statute of limitations, which is generally four years from the date of your accident. However, if your claim is regarding a bus accident, then you may have to file a Notice of Claim first. In the state of Florida, a Notice of Claim must be filed within three years of the date of your accident. Then, you may have to wait up to 180 days to file your personal injury claim.  On top of all this, you must ensure that you satisfy your burden of proof and collect enough evidence to support your claim. With all things considered, this is why time is of the essence when it comes to your bus accident claim. So as soon as you possibly can, you must retain the services of a skilled Tampa auto accident lawyer. We will do everything in our power to make sure that you meet all of your deadlines and that you are properly prepared to hold the at-fault entity responsible for their negligence. Pick up the phone and call us today.