Orlando School Bus Accident Lawyer
School bus accidents lead to very expensive and complex litigation in Florida. Cases are convoluted simply because of the way state and federal laws apportion blame. While it may appear on the surface of the facts where the fault lies, the laws may designate otherwise. This is why you require the services of a highly qualified school bus accident attorney.
Buses are considered to be common carriers and the federal government, who is responsible for interstate travel, is the governing body for commercial bus companies. As such, these carriers are mandated to use “due diligence” transporting passengers. Their drivers must have the requisite training and equipment to do their duties in a safe manner.
Duty to the passenger on a bus, adult or child, begins when the person boards that vehicle. There is a high standard of care incumbent on all drivers and bus companies who transport passengers in the state of Florida. Driver and company liability can be apportioned if passengers are hurt in a crash even if the injuries are not serious.
Finding out who is responsible and liable for a bus accident isn’t as simple as it may seem. It may look to be a straightforward case of a car/other vehicle vs. school bus accident, however there are complex issues surrounding bus ownership, who operates the company, insurance regulations and other factors not evident at first glance. In situations like this, it’s best to immediately contact a knowledgeable school bus accident attorney experienced with Florida state law such as Tony C. Francis, an Orlando school bus accident attorney.
Contact a Orlando School Bus Accident Lawyer
Personal injuries resulting from a bus accident must be filed in Florida within four years of the accident. You may be eligible for compensation for property loss, current medical expenses, medical expenses in the future and lawyer’s fees. To find out if you have a valid claim, contact the Francis Law Firm, as they will help walk you through your personal injury claim and the filing process.
School buses do not have seat belts due to the compartmentalization design theory that states protection is offered to children by surrounding them in a compartment of padded and reinforced seats. This is only effective if the children are property seated which isn’t always the case, and does not protect well in a lateral impact.
Whether the cause of a school bus accident is due to a blind spot for the driver, distractions from the passengers or safety hazards posed by traffic around the bus itself, hiring a qualified school bus accident attorney will protect your legal rights. Your legal rights will involve, among other things, dealing with the issue of government immunity.
Government immunity applies in instances where buses are operated behind a governmental authority e.g. public school or municipality. This means that even if the school bus driver was at fault, those behind the scenes will likely attempt to avoid offering compensation. Immunity laws cover the person liable. The Francis Law Firm understands these complex Florida immunity laws.