Public transportation accidents result in serious injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. The impact is devastating, and victims may even lose their lives. If you or a loved one has been hurt in such an accident, you are qualified for several compensations.
Dealing with the legal steps after a public transit accident can be overwhelming, particularly when governmental authorities or large organisations are involved. That is where our experienced Public Transportation Accident Lawyers in Chicago fit in to protect your rights and deal with the complex legal process on your behalf!
Why Do You Need Our Assistance?
You may face unique legal challenges when you are a victim of a public transportation accident. We can solve those difficulties for you beyond the scope of personal injury law.
Chicago Injury Lawyer will inform you about every public transportation accident policy and how to receive a fair settlement for your losses.
Here are some areas of our skill set:
Expertise in Public Transportation Laws
Our public transportation accident lawyers, including those for public bus accidents, deeply understand state and federal Illinois accident laws governing transit systems. We help you navigate all the legal complexities and build a solid transportation accident case.
Thorough Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our skilled Chicago public car accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses. We also inspect the vehicle’s condition and consult forensic experts to establish liability and negligence.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Public transportation services are usually covered by insurance, but dealing with them is challenging. Insurance providers try to minimise your compensation or deny your claim altogether. Our trained Chicago accident lawyer will negotiate with them to secure fair compensation for your injuries.
Maximising Your Compensation
Our legal experts specialise in calculating the actual value of your compensation claim. It includes medical bills, lost work hours, and non-economic damages. We will fight determinedly to compensate you for all your harm.
Handling Complex Liability Issues
Public transportation accidents often involve complex liability issues. These accidents may involve public agencies, private contractors, or government entities. Understanding who is at fault and how to pursue recovery is daunting, and we are experts in the field.
The Main Reasons for Chicago’s Public Transportation Accidents
Accidents involving public transit occur frequently. In 2022, there were 1,147 fatal crashes on Illinois roadways, which led to 1,268 deaths.
A variety of factors can cause these accidents. Here, we observed some leading causes:
- Driver Carelessness: Inattention, speeding, or impairment on the driver’s part.
- Mechanical Failure: Defective buses, trains, or other vehicles.
- Poor Upkeep: Lack of proper maintenance of public vehicles or equipment.
- Poor Road Conditions: Holes, slick roads, and other unsafe conditions.
- Weather Conditions: Bad road conditions due to rain, snow, or ice.
- Passenger Behaviour: Rowdy or disruptive passengers, leading to accidents.
- Pedestrian Mishaps: Involving pedestrians hit by public transportation vehicles.
Types of Public Transportation Accidents in Chicago
Several kinds of accidents occur on public transit in Chicago. Typical circumstances include:
- Bus Accidents: Interactions with big-city buses, school buses, or long-travel coaches.
- Railroad Accidents: Train rollovers, collisions at railroad crosswalks, and railroad platform incidents.
- Taxi Accidents: Accidents in public taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber.
- Subway Accidents: Incidents associated with the underground rail system, including platform accidents and train collisions.
- Pedestrian Accidents: When public vehicles run over people who are walking.
The Illinois Vehicle Code(625 ILCS 5/) enforces all vehicle operations, driver licensing, registration, traffic laws, road safety, and accident procedures in Chicago to prevent these accidents. It defines rules for licensing, traffic violations, vehicle safety, insurance, and penalties for breaking the law.
Who Is Responsible for Public Transportation Accidents in Chicago?
Determining who is liable for a public transportation accident can be complicated. Research shows that drivers are the most responsible and affected by these accidents. In general, we observed some potential parties that could be held accountable, such as:
The Driver
If the accident was caused by driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the driver is directly accountable for the incident.
The Public Transportation Agency
In cases involving public buses, trains, and subways, a public or government-run transportation agency like the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is held responsible for the accident. They are responsible for handling their drivers and maintaining the vehicles.
Private Contractors or Third Parties
In some cases, public transportation services are partnered with private vehicle companies. In these situations, the private company will be held responsible if the accident was caused by poor maintenance, defective vehicles, or insufficient training.
Other Drivers or Parties
Sometimes, accidents in public transportation can be caused by other road users, such as local vehicles or pedestrians. If another driver’s negligence caused the vehicle accident (such as a motorcycle, bicycle, or truck accident), they may be liable for the consequences.
Possible Compensation Rights For Public Transportation Accidents in Chicago
Under the Personal Injury Act (735 ILCS 5/13-202), you can file a lawsuit after getting injured in a public transportation accident if a third party, like vehicle agencies, private contractors, or government corporations, was negligent in their actions.
Here are the possible compensations you will get:
| Type of Compensation | Description |
| Medical Expenses | Compensation for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing medical care. |
| Lost Wages | Recovery of income lost due to injuries, including past and future wages or salary. |
| Pain and Suffering | There is a reward for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life due to the accident. |
| Property Damage | Settlement for any personal property damaged during the accident, such as clothing or electronics. |
| Permanent Disability | Compensation for long-term or permanent injuries that affect your ability to work or live normally. |
| Emotional Distress | Remedies for psychological harm, anxiety, and trauma resulting from the accident. |
| Punitive Damages | In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party. |
| Funeral and Burial Costs | If the accident leads to a fatality, family members may seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses. |
| Future Medical Needs | Compensation for anticipated future medical expenses related to the injury. |
Furthermore, the Comparative Negligence Policy can be applied to determine your compensation. Suppose you have some responsibility for a public transportation accident. In that case, you may still be entitled to recover damages under the Comparative Negligence Law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), but only if your liability is less than 50%.
Public Transportation Accident Lawyer Cost Calculator
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Disclaimer: This is an estimate. Actual costs may vary based on case complexity and regional rates.Statute of Limitations For Public Transportation Accidents in Chicago
There is a statute of limitations when filing a public transport accident case in Chicago. Under Illinois law (735 ILCS 5/13-202), you have just two years to file a personal injury claim, including public transit accidents.
Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to compensation, no matter the extent of your injuries. It is crucial to gather evidence early to build a solid public transport accident claim.
Looking for a Free Consultation With a Chicago Public Transit Accident Lawyer?
We know a car accident can be a frightening experience, and you are looking for guidance. Our free consultation gives you the answers you need, clarifies your rights, and explores your legal options. Contact “Chicago Injury Lawyer” right now and start the journey toward the settlement you are worthy of!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still file a claim if my accident was caused by bad weather or road conditions?
Yes, you may file a complaint even in cases where the accident was due to a snowstorm or poor road conditions. However, the chances of success for your claim depend on certain factors and whether the parties held liable took the requisite safety measures.
Can I sue a government agency or public entity for a public transportation accident in Chicago?
Yes, but some rules and timelines govern this. Under the Local Government and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act (745 ILCS 10), you must file a notice of intent to sue within six months of the occurrence and then file the case within one year.
How long does settling or resolving a public transportation accident case typically take?
The duration for settling or resolving a case involving a public transportation accident is unpredictable and can be influenced by the extent of injury and other factors. Average cases range from a couple of months to some years in duration.
