Tampa Bus Accident Lawyer
Fighting For Bus Accident Victims in Florida
Robert Sparks Attorneys offers legal representation to individuals who have been injured in bus accidents. We want our clients to receive the financial compensation they need to recover from their injuries and put their lives back together again. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients in the pursuit of this goal. If you or a family member has been injured in a bus accident or school bus accident, we invite you to contact a bus accident lawyer from our Tampa firm.
Call Robert Sparks Attorney today at (813) 710-4816 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our bus accident attorney in Tampa.
Bus Accident Cases We Handle
We represent clients who have been injured in a wide range of bus accidents, including:
- Public transportation (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit “HART”)
- Greyhound buses (and other charter buses)
- RedCoach USA (Airport bus services and shuttles)
- School buses
- Megabus (for city-to-city bus transit)
- Amtrak buses
As a personal injury law firm, we assist people injured by the negligent or wrongful acts of others. Our cases include individuals hurt while riding a bus, pedestrians and bicyclists struck by buses, and drivers involved in car accidents with a bus.
Common Types of Bus Accidents
These may include:
Bus crashes in Tampa may involve rear-end collisions, rollovers, single-vehicle incidents, or accidents where a bus hits a pedestrian or cyclist. Potholes and abrupt lane changes from ongoing roadwork on Tampa’s major roads raise the risk of crashes. Bus drivers also manage crowded city areas and must make frequent stops, which can cause sudden movements or hazards. Injuries in these accidents can range from minor to life-altering, so each case must be examined to determine who may be responsible for the harm caused.
What Do I Do if I Was Hurt in a Bus Accident in Tampa?
Bus companies have a record of disregarding safety concerns for their riders. In 1968, the National Transportation Safety Board asked national bus carriers to install safety belts for passengers. Over forty years later, most buses still do not have belts. There are also questions about the strength of bus roofs and windows. Bus drivers can make mistakes due to fatigue, distraction, or lack of proper training. All of these can lead to devastating accidents and catastrophic injuries for the victims.
When we take on a claim, we meticulously investigate the accident and interview witnesses. We contact accident reconstruction experts as needed to establish our case for liability, and we also contact our client’s physician to learn the care our client will require for full recovery. We prepare our claim seeking full compensation for medical expenses, hospitalization costs, loss of income, lost earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering. Then, we make a diligent effort to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
Florida's Unique Bus Accident Legal Landscape
In Florida, specific laws govern the liability in bus accidents. The state adheres to a no-fault insurance system, which means that after an accident, victims typically seek compensation from their insurance providers first, regardless of who was at fault. However, bus accidents, particularly those involving severe or catastrophic injuries, may fall outside standard no-fault claims, allowing victims to pursue additional compensation from the liable parties. This complex interplay of state laws necessitates the guidance of experienced attorneys who can navigate these legal intricacies and secure fair compensation for victims.
Furthermore, local Tampa ordinances and safety regulations can influence bus accident cases. For instance, public and private buses operating in Tampa must comply with specific safety standards and operational guidelines. Failure to adhere to these regulations could serve as evidence of negligence in legal proceedings. As such, understanding the nuances of both state and local laws is critical for effectively representing clients and advocating for their rights in the aftermath of a bus accident.
How Much Compensation Can I Claim if I Was Injured in a Bus Accident?
If you were injured in a bus accident, there are various types of compensation you may be able to pursue. When you let our team help you file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party, we will pursue the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Damages to property
If you were injured in a bus accident, know that we will not charge you attorney fees unless we secure a financial recovery. If you or someone you love was involved in a bus accident, view our helpful article on seeking compensation after your bus accident and contact us today for a free consultation.
FAQs About Bus Accident Claims
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit for a Bus Accident?
Florida's statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including bus accident claims, is generally four years from the accident date. Some cases have exceptions or shorter deadlines, especially if government agencies are involved. Contacting an attorney soon after the accident helps you avoid missing deadlines that could affect your right to compensation. Taking quick legal action also preserves evidence and witness information, which is important for a strong claim.
Can I Seek Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault?
Florida uses a comparative negligence system, so even if you share some fault for a bus accident, you may still receive compensation. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. That is why having a skilled attorney is important to minimize your liability and help improve your claim outcome. Understanding the degree of fault and handling the details of comparative negligence can help you seek the best result possible.
Do I Need to File a Claim Against the Bus Company or the Driver?
Should I Speak to the Insurance Company After a Bus Accident?
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Bus Accident Case?
Contact Our Bus Accident Lawyer in Tampa Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, don’t wait to pursue legal help. At Robert Sparks Attorney, we are devoted to fighting for the rights of accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. Our Tampa bus accident lawyers are ready to guide you throughout the legal process with empathy and expertise. Let us help you pursue justice and financial recovery.
Contact Robert Sparks Attorney today to get started with our Tampa bus accident attorney.
At our firm, we have a reputation built on winning. Our ultimate goal is to protect and pursue your rights and your family’s well-being. With decades of collective experience, we are highly qualified and committed to securing the best legal outcomes for individuals who need the skill, dedication, and compassion of our trial attorneys.
Strength. Trust. Results.
Read What Our Clients Say In Their Own Words.
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“The professionalism of staff, the promptness of responses to questions, and the overall guidance through the process after my accident was astounding. Rob and Garrett were absolutely AMAZING.”- Daner J.
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“I am very satisfied with the exceptional work that Robert Sparks Attorney has done for me and my case. Garrett Riley handled my case. I really appreciate how communicative and persistent he was.”- Alexis M.
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“The communication with him and his team is fantastic, and you really feel they are with you every step of the way with your case. He is very caring and understanding, and takes initiative and leads the charge with moving your case along.”- Mary A.
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“My cases both had successful outcomes and I am certain that this as a result of his knowledge and work ethic. His attention was primarily focused on my health and well being prior to anything else.”- Melissa E.
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“Although, I have to put a special highlight on Cheryl! She is one of the sweetest and most compassionate people I know. She truly cares about their clients as if they were friends and had know each other for years.”- Nicole S.
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“It was non-stop communication with both Rob and Cheryl. The road was long but this team is adamant and steadfast on their mission and dedication to each client.”- Michelle N.
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“Rob, thank you so much for helping with all of this and know that I hold you and your staff in the highest professional esteem. No matter what was thrown at us, you had an answer that countered.”- Former Client
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“Our family cannot begin to express appreciation for the legal expertise provided by attorney Robert Sparks and his team at Robert Sparks Attorneys!”- Former Client