Bus Accident Attorney in Jacksonville

In large cities like Jacksonville, public transportation is often the cheapest and most efficient way to get around. With so many large buses on the road, it’s no wonder that they are involved in thousands of accidents each year. There are many different types of bus accident injuries, ranging from catastrophic injuries to soft-tissue injuries. No matter how serious your injury is, you deserve to be compensated by the at-fault bus company. Our Jacksonville bus accident attorneys at Edwards & Ragatz can help you accomplish that.

Here's why you should hire our firm:

• More than 150 years of combined experience
• Recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of our clients
• You don't pay any fees unless we win your case

Contact our Jacksonville bus accident attorneys at (904) 295-1050 today for a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve!

Common Types of Buses in Jacksonville

Buses in Jacksonville vary depending on their purpose and route. Understanding the type of bus involved in an accident can be crucial for determining liability and potential damages. Common types include:

• City Transit Buses: Operated by Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), these buses provide public transportation throughout the city.
• School Buses: Transport children to and from school. Florida has strict safety regulations for school buses.
• Charter & Tour Buses: Used for private groups, tours, or long-distance travel. Often operated by private companies.
• Shuttle Buses: Found at airports, hotels, and event venues, providing short-distance transport.
• Intercity & Greyhound Buses: Provide longer routes between cities and may involve different insurance coverage rules.

Each bus type has specific operational rules and safety requirements, and the nature of the bus often affects the investigation and claims process.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents

Bus accidents can occur for many reasons, often involving negligence, mechanical issues, or unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Error: Distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or reckless behavior by bus operators is a leading cause of accidents.
• Mechanical Failures: Brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions can lead to crashes.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, construction zones, or poorly marked roads can contribute to accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or slippery roads increase the risk of collisions.
• Other Drivers: Collisions caused by negligent drivers may involve liability shared between the bus driver and other motorists.
• Improper Maintenance: Inadequate inspections and maintenance of buses can result in preventable accidents.

Identifying the exact cause is essential for pursuing compensation, and our Jacksonville bus accident lawyers are experienced in conducting thorough investigations.

Common Bus Crash Injuries

Bus accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Some of the most common include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden stops or collisions often cause neck strain or sprains.
• Back and Spinal Injuries: Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord injuries may occur.
• Head Injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures are possible, especially in high-impact crashes.
• Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and other fractures are common due to forceful impacts.
• Cuts, Bruises, and Lacerations: Broken glass or debris inside the bus can cause significant injuries.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs from blunt force trauma can be life-threatening if untreated.

Prompt medical evaluation is critical after a bus accident, both for your health and to support any potential legal claims.

Florida Bus Driving Laws

Florida has strict laws and regulations governing bus operations, designed to protect passengers and other motorists. Key provisions include:

• Driver Licensing Requirements: Bus drivers must hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and meet strict medical and training standards.
• Hours of Service Regulations: Drivers must adhere to limits on driving hours to prevent fatigue.
• Safety Inspections: Buses must undergo regular safety inspections and maintenance checks.
• Seat Belts & Safety Equipment: School buses and some public buses are required to have seat belts and other safety equipment.
• Traffic Laws: Bus drivers are subject to all standard traffic laws, including speed limits, stopping at red lights, and yielding to pedestrians.

Violations of these laws can establish negligence and strengthen a bus accident claim.

Liability for a Bus Accident?

Determining liability in a bus accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility, including:

• Bus Driver: Negligence or recklessness can make the driver personally liable.
• Bus Company or School District: Employers can be responsible for their employees’ actions under the doctrine of vicarious liability.
• Maintenance Providers: Negligence in maintenance or inspections can lead to liability.
• Other Drivers: In multi-vehicle accidents, other motorists may share responsibility.
• Government Entities: If road conditions or signage contributed to the crash, a city or state agency may be liable.

Our Jacksonville bus accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate the incident, identify all responsible parties, and pursue full compensation on your behalf.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Bus Accident

Being involved in a bus accident—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or driver of another vehicle—can be overwhelming. However, the steps you take (or fail to take) immediately afterward can have a significant impact on your ability to recover full and fair compensation. Many accident victims unintentionally harm their cases by making avoidable mistakes. Here are the most critical mistakes to avoid if you’ve been injured in a bus accident:

1. Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately – Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, whiplash, and spinal damage may not be immediately obvious. Waiting to seek treatment can not only make your condition worse but also give insurance companies an excuse to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident.
2. Failing to Report the Accident – Always call 911 and ensure a police report is filed. This official documentation is key evidence in your claim and can help counter any attempts by the bus company or insurance providers to deny or dispute liability.
3. Leaving the Scene Without Gathering Evidence – If you are able, take photos and videos of the accident scene, the bus, any other vehicles involved, visible injuries, road conditions, and traffic signals. Get the driver’s information, bus number, and the names and contact details of any witnesses, as their testimony could be critical later.
4. Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation – The bus company, transit authority, or other liable parties' insurance adjusters will often try to limit their financial responsibility by twisting your words, shifting blame, or offering a low settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries. Never give a recorded statement or accept an offer without consulting an attorney.
5. Assuming Only the Bus Driver Is Liable – Bus accident cases can involve multiple liable parties, including the bus company, government transit agency, third-party drivers, maintenance providers, or even bus manufacturers if a defect contributed to the crash. An attorney can thoroughly investigate and identify all sources of compensation.
6. Waiting Too Long to Take Legal Action – In Florida, personal injury claims typically must be filed within two years, but claims against public transit systems or government entities may have even shorter deadlines. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely.
7. Underestimating the Long-Term Impact of Your Injuries – Many victims accept early settlement offers before understanding the full extent of their medical needs. Bus accident injuries can lead to long-term disabilities, chronic pain, or lost earning capacity. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot ask for more compensation later, so it’s crucial to calculate both current and future damages before agreeing to anything.

Bus accident claims can be complex and highly contested, and mistakes in the early stages can weaken your case. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we have extensive experience handling bus accident cases and know what it takes to protect your rights, identify all liable parties, and maximize your compensation.

Bus Accident Claim FAQs

Q: How long do I have to file a bus accident claim in Florida?

A: Florida law generally gives you four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Q: Can I recover damages if the bus driver was employed by the government?

A: Yes, but special rules may apply, including notice requirements and limits on damages.

Q: What types of compensation can I receive?

A: Victims may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in severe cases, punitive damages.

Q: Do I need an attorney for a bus accident claim?

A: While not required, having an experienced Jacksonville bus accident lawyer significantly improves your chances of a successful claim.

Q: Will my case go to trial?

A: Many cases settle out of court, but your attorney will prepare to take your case to trial if necessary to ensure fair compensation.

How Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. Can Support You

Our dedicated team offers unparalleled support and comprehensive legal strategies tailored to your specific needs. Our empathetic approach ensures you feel supported throughout the legal process, fostering trust and confidence in our ability to advocate for you.

We not only serve as your legal advocates but also as a guiding force, helping you make informed decisions from the initial consultation through to the resolution of your case. This proactive guidance is a hallmark of our service and one of the key reasons behind our clients' satisfaction and successful outcomes.

Take the Next Step Towards Justice

If you or a loved one has been affected by a bus accident in Jacksonville, it's crucial to act swiftly and seek legal advice. Our team at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. is here to provide the support and representation you need to navigate this challenging time. With a commitment to securing justice and a track record of substantial settlements, we stand ready to advocate for you vigorously.

Contact us today at (904) 295-1050 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step towards reclaiming your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.