The public transportation systems in the state of Florida are widely viewed as safe and dependable. But unfortunately, they are not completely immune to the possibility of catastrophic auto accidents. With that being said, please continue reading to learn the types of public transportation accidents and how an experienced Panama City auto accidents attorney at Manuel & Thompson, PA can help you file a claim in the aftermath of yours.
What are the types of public transportation accidents seen in the state of Florida?
The most common means of public transportation throughout the state of Florida are buses and trains. The accidents involving them may transpire in different ways. In any event, they are sadly, more often than not, catastrophic ones.
For one, a bus accident may occur if a driver simply operates this commercial vehicle negligently. That is, if they speed on the roadways, fail to check their large blind spots before merging, fail to break adequately before a sharp turn, etc. Or, if a standard motor vehicle driver in a neighboring lane drives negligently in any of these ways.
On the other hand, a train accident may take place if a conductor is under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating this commercial vehicle. Or, if a standard motor vehicle driver stalls on a railroad crossing even after the train operator gives warning of its passing through.
What is the deadline for my public transportation accident claim?
Generally speaking, in the state of Florida, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim pertaining to a public transportation accident is two years.
Mentioned above were scenarios in which a bus or train operator, or a neighboring standard motor vehicle driver, is likely to be the liable party for the accident. However, there are other instances where a government entity may be to blame instead.
For example, the Florida Transportation Commission may be responsible if the accident involved a malfunctioning part within the public transport. Specifically, for a train, if there are unfastened screws and bolts in the train tracks. Or, a city entity may be at fault if the accident entailed a dangerous road condition. Specifically, for a bus, if there is uncleared weather-related debris cluttering the lanes.
This is to say that, when dealing with a government entity, you may have to file a notice of claim beforehand. This must be done within 20 days from your accident date. Otherwise, you may be permanently barred from your opportunity to take legal action against them.
So please do not wait. Retain the services of a talented Leonardtown personal injury lawyer from The Dorsey Law Firm. We look forward to working with you soon and taking on your potential case.
