Bus Accidents in Florida: Who’s Liable When Public or Private Transit Goes Wrong?

Buses are a vital part of Florida’s transportation system, from public transit routes in Miami and Tampa to private charter, school, and intercity lines that move millions of passengers every year. But when a bus crash occurs, it often causes serious injuries to multiple people at once. Victims can include passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, or occupants of other vehicles.

Unlike standard car accidents, bus accident claims are complex because they often involve government agencies, large corporations, or multiple insurance carriers. Understanding who can be held responsible and how to pursue compensation is key to protecting your rights.

This article explains who may be liable for bus accidents in Florida, the unique rules governing public transit claims, and how an experienced Florida bus accident lawyer can guide victims through the recovery process.

Common Causes of Bus Accidents in Florida

Bus crashes often occur because of driver negligence, mechanical failure, or poor maintenance. Given the size and weight of these vehicles, even a low-speed impact can cause catastrophic damage.

Frequent causes include:

• Driver fatigue or long shifts without proper rest
• Distracted driving, including phone use or navigation devices
• Speeding or failing to yield
• Inadequate driver training or supervision
• Improper maintenance or mechanical defects (brakes, tires, steering systems)
• Unsafe road conditions or poor signage
• Weather-related hazards
• Negligent third-party drivers cutting off or rear-ending buses

Because most buses carry multiple passengers, the scale of injury and property damage can be enormous, making liability determination especially important.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Florida Bus Accident?

Determining liability depends on who owns and operates the bus, as well as the circumstances surrounding the crash. Several parties may share responsibility.

1. Public Transit Authorities

If you were injured on a city or county bus, such as Miami-Dade Transit or Palm Tran, your claim involves a government entity. These cases fall under Florida Statute §768.28, which governs sovereign immunity.

Victims can recover damages, but there are strict procedures and caps:

• You must provide written notice of claim within 2 years of the accident (6 months for wrongful death).
  
• Damages are capped at $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident, unless a special legislative claim bill is approved.

Failure to follow these procedural steps can permanently bar your case, which is why working with a Florida bus accident attorney experienced in government claims is critical.

2. Private Bus Companies

Private carriers, such as Greyhound, Megabus, and charter services, are held to a high duty of care because they are common carriers under Florida law. This means they must take every reasonable precaution to ensure passenger safety.

If negligence occurs, such as a poorly maintained vehicle or reckless driving, the company can be held liable for injuries and damages.

3. School Districts and Bus Operators

School bus accidents are particularly sensitive cases involving minors. Liability may fall on the school district, private transportation contractor, or even bus manufacturer, depending on the cause of the crash.

Parents can pursue claims for their children’s medical expenses, emotional distress, and long-term disabilities.

4. Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers

If mechanical failure contributed to the crash (for example, defective brakes or tires), a product liability lawsuit may be filed against the manufacturer or maintenance provider.

5. Negligent Third-Party Drivers

Sometimes another driver, not the bus operator, causes the crash. In such cases, injured bus passengers can file claims against that driver’s insurance or pursue additional coverage under the bus company’s policy.

Common Injuries in Florida Bus Accidents

Due to the lack of seatbelts and the size of buses, passengers and other road users often sustain severe injuries. Common examples include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Lacerations and internal bleeding
• Crush injuries and amputations
• Wrongful death

Many victims require long-term rehabilitation, multiple surgeries, or permanent disability care. A Florida catastrophic injury lawyer can ensure these long-term costs are properly accounted for in your claim.

Steps to Take After a Bus Accident

If you were injured in a bus crash, take these steps immediately to protect your legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor.
   
2. Report the accident to law enforcement or the bus company.
   
3. Gather contact information from witnesses and other passengers.
   
4. Document the scene with photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and surroundings.
   
5. Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters without consulting an attorney.
   
6. Contact a Florida bus accident lawyer to begin the claims process.

Because many bus companies and government entities begin investigating immediately, having legal counsel early helps preserve critical evidence such as driver logs, maintenance records, and onboard camera footage.

Damages Available in a Florida Bus Accident Case

Depending on the circumstances, victims may recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, rehabilitation, future treatment)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and trauma
• Loss of consortium or companionship
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

A Florida personal injury attorney can calculate both immediate and long-term damages to ensure a fair settlement or verdict.

Related Practice Areas

Bus accident cases often overlap with other major practice areas, including:

• [Florida Car Accident Lawyers], for crashes involving multiple vehicles.
  
• [Florida Wrongful Death Attorneys], when fatalities occur.
  
• [Florida Product Liability Lawyers], for defective vehicle components.
  
• [Florida Catastrophic Injury Attorneys], for life-altering injuries.
  
• [Florida Construction Accident Lawyers], when buses collide with roadside work zones.

Each area requires careful evidence collection and understanding of complex insurance coverage.

Why Legal Representation Is Crucial

Bus accident cases frequently involve multiple defendants, government regulations, and competing insurance carriers. An experienced Florida bus accident lawyer will:

• Investigate the cause of the crash and identify every liable party.
  
• Secure maintenance, inspection, and driver records.
  
• Navigate sovereign immunity rules for government-operated buses.
  
• Negotiate with insurers for full compensation.
  
• Take your case to trial if fair compensation is denied.

Having the right legal team ensures no avenue of recovery is overlooked.

Call Kogan & DiSalvo Personal Injury Lawyers

If you were injured in a bus accident in Florida, don’t face the insurance companies or government agencies alone. The experienced attorneys at Kogan & DiSalvo Personal Injury Lawyers can handle your case from start to finish, ensuring that your rights are protected and your damages fully accounted for.

Call (561) 286-8132 today for a free consultation. We represent clients statewide from offices in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Plantation, Palm Bay, St. Petersburg, Vero Beach, North Miami Beach, Boynton Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Lakeland, Stuart, Tampa, and West Palm Beach.