Understanding Liability in Florida Bus Accidents
Florida has experienced a significant number of bus accidents in the past couple of years. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in 2024, there were 13,452 bus accidents nationwide, with 171 of these accidents being fatal. Texas had the most bus accidents in 2024, followed by Florida, New York, Illinois, and California.
Determining liability can be complicated. Unlike standard car accidents, where liability is typically assigned to one or both drivers, bus accidents involve multiple parties: drivers, companies, government entities and even third-party maintenance providers.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, knowing who is responsible is crucial. As an experienced accident lawyer, I’m here to break it down in simple terms.
Who Is Liable in a Florida Bus Accident?
When a bus accident occurs, liability depends on who acted negligently. Here are the key players who may be responsible:
The Bus Driver – If the driver was speeding, distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise reckless, they could be held responsible.
The Bus Company – Companies are required to hire qualified drivers and properly maintain their vehicles. Failure to do so could result in liability.
Government Entities – If the accident involves a public transportation bus, the city or state may be responsible if poor maintenance, inadequate training, or dangerous road conditions play a role.
Third-Party Maintenance Companies – If a bus company outsources vehicle maintenance and a mechanical failure occurs, the maintenance provider could be held accountable.
Other Drivers – In some cases, another vehicle’s actions cause a bus accident, shifting liability to that driver and their insurance.
In Florida, comparative negligence laws mean that more than one party can be found liable. Even if the bus driver is partly responsible, another driver or company may share the blame.
Different Bus, Different Liability?
Yes, liability rules can change depending on the type of bus involved.
Tour Coach Buses – These are typically owned by private companies, meaning they must carry commercial insurance policies. If the driver or company is negligent, victims can pursue compensation directly from the insurer.
Public Transit Buses – Since these are often government-run, lawsuits against public transit systems are more complex. Florida has strict sovereign immunity laws, which means suing a government entity has additional legal hurdles and shorter time limits.
School Buses – If a school bus accident occurs, liability depends on whether the bus is privately contracted or owned by the school district. Some cases involve both private insurers and government liability, making legal representation even more important.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Bus Accident
If you’ve been in a bus accident, here are my tips as an experienced accident lawyer:
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can appear later.
Document the Scene – Take pictures, gather witness statements, and record details.
Report the Accident – File a police report and notify the appropriate transit authority.
Consult an Accident Lawyer – Navigating bus accident claims requires legal expertise, especially if multiple parties are involved.
Safety First
Bus accidents can lead to serious injuries, and determining liability isn’t always straightforward. Understanding who is responsible can make the difference between getting fair compensation and being left with the financial burden.
What is most important, however, is that you drive defensively on the roads and, as a passenger, don’t board a bus that does not look roadworthy or if you suspect the competency of the driver. Arrive late, but arrive alive.
Speak with an experienced accident lawyer about your Florida bus accident event.
Disclaimer: The legal articles on this website are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Reading these materials does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney.
