It’s estimated that 130,000 people utilize the Broward County public transit system on a daily basis. If you’re one of these individuals, taking the bus can be incredibly beneficial, whether you don’t own a vehicle or want extra time to work or relax on your commute to the office. However, the last thing you expect when you get on your morning bus is to end up injured. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for public transportation accidents to occur, so it’s critical to understand your legal options if you sustain damages. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with a Broward County bus accident lawyer to explore your legal options.
What Kind of Accidents Can Happen on Public Transportation?
In Broward County, the primary form of public transportation is buses. As such, you can sustain several injuries as a result of the negligent actions of the driver responsible for operating the vehicle. For example, if the driver is speeding, driving recklessly, or distracted, they can cause a serious accident, injuring those on board.
However, the driver is not the only party that can be held liable. If the city does not ensure the buses are inspected on a regular basis and receive routine maintenance, mechanical issues can lead to accidents, subsequently injuring those on board.
How Do I File a Claim in Florida?
If you are injured on public transportation in Broward County, it’s imperative to understand how to proceed if you wish to file a claim. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that you cannot simply sue the government like you would a private citizen. This is because government entities have what’s known as qualified immunity. However, the states have waived these rights to allow tort claims to proceed, though special steps must be taken for a claim to be viable.
Generally, to file a suit against a government entity, you must first file a Notice of Claim. This essentially serves as a formal notice to the entity that you plan on filing a lawsuit against them. You must include certain information, like a description of the accident, the injuries you’ve sustained, and the damages you seek, for the claim to be valid. Once you have submitted this Notice, you can proceed with a claim.
If you are injured on public transportation in Broward County, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with the Finizio Law Group as soon as possible. Our dedicated legal team understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to assist you through the process of fighting for the justice you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can represent you.
