Bus-Wheelchair Accident Injures One

It is something you do not see every day – thankfully – but Miami Beach officials say that a school bus and a motorized wheelchair were involved in a crash one recent morning and, as a result, the wheelchair-bound person was injured when they fell from their wheelchair and bumped their head on the ground. According to police, the wheelchair rider rode out into the street as a bus was parked in the middle of the road; the back of the bus grazed the wheelchair and caused it to fall. The wheelchair rider was taken to the hospital for minor injuries as a result of the fall.

Wheelchair-Related Accidents – Not As Unusual As One Would Think

When people think about wheelchairs, most of the time they regard the wheelchair as a positive thing that can provide safety and freedom to those who are injured or have disabilities that limit their mobility. Elderly people, in particular, are afforded freedom and autonomy they might not otherwise have without a wheelchair. According to statistics, though, many wheelchair-related accidents occur every year. Those accidents, unfortunately, come with injuries for thousands of people already dealing with limitations of one type or another. Liability for these types of accidents can be difficult to assess and, as a result, they can lead to a complicated and complex court case.

Florida Law And Wheelchairs

As may be expected in a state with a large senior population, motorized wheelchairs and other types of assistive mobility devices such as scooters and similar types of transport vehicles are a special concern. Florida law sets forth the rules with respect to the usage of these modes of transport in Code Section 316.2068. Some of the specifics include where they may be driven (roads and streets with a speed limit of no more than 25 miles per hour, bike paths or streets and roads where bikes are allowed, at intersections to cross a street or road, and on sidewalks so long as pedestrians are given the right of way). Driver’s licenses are not required and the mobility devices do not require registration or insurance, but individuals under the age of sixteen must wear a proper helmet while riding a motorized mobility device. Lastly, counties and municipalities have the authority to regulate or prohibit their use for reasons of public safety.

Let Us Assist You with Your Case

When you have been injured in an auto accident, whether you are in a car, truck, or even a wheelchair, the legal professionals at Boone & Davis in Fort Lauderdale are here to help you get the recovery you are entitled to. Regardless of the way you were injured, we know how to get the best results for you. We have experience handling all types of personal injury cases and know the unique aspects of extraordinary and unusual cases that may arise. From your initial consultation, the auto accident attorneys at our office will help you to understand your rights and responsibilities under Florida law. Making sure you feel comfortable with our representation and knowledgeable about your case is important to us. Reach out to us by phone at 954.556.5260 or contact us via our website so that we can help you get the results you deserve.