What Happens if You're in an Accident on Public Transportation?

Commuter Nightmares: What Happens if You're in an Accident on Public Transportation?

Riding public transportation should be the easiest part of your day. You hop on the bus, subway, or train, expecting a (mostly) smooth ride. But what if the unthinkable happens? A sudden crash, a hard stop that sends passengers flying, or a collision with another vehicle—accidents involving public transit can get complicated fast. 

If you've been injured on public transportation, you may be wondering: Who’s responsible? How do you get compensation? And where do you even start? Here’s what you need to know.

Who’s Liable for a Public Transportation Accident? 

Unlike a typical car accident, where liability usually falls on one or more drivers, public transportation accidents involve multiple parties. This could include: 

• The Transit Company. Whether it's a city bus, commuter train, or subway system, the transit authority is responsible for keeping passengers safe. If a driver was speeding, distracted, or poorly trained, the agency may be liable. 

• The Driver or Operator. Human error is a major factor in transit crashes. If the person operating the vehicle was negligent—running a red light, making sudden stops, or driving under the influence—they could be held accountable. 

• Another Motorist.  Sometimes, another driver causes the crash by swerving into the bus lane or cutting off a train at a crossing. In these cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance may be responsible for damages. 

• Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers. Equipment failures, like faulty brakes or malfunctioning signals, can also lead to serious accidents. If a mechanical issue was to blame, the manufacturer or maintenance company might be at fault. 

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Public Transportation Accident 

Accidents happen in an instant, but the steps you take afterward can impact your ability to get compensation. Here’s what you should do: 

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately 

Even if you feel okay, injuries from public transit crashes can take time to show up. A doctor’s evaluation creates a record of your injuries, which is important for any potential claim. 

2. Document Everything

If you can, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazards that contributed to the crash. Get the names and contact information of witnesses and write down details about what happened while it’s fresh in your mind. 

3. Report the Accident 

If you’re on a city bus, subway, or train, report the incident to the transit authority. If another driver was involved, call the police and request an official report. 

4. Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters Alone 

The transit company’s insurance provider may reach out to you with a settlement offer, but these initial offers are often far lower than what you deserve. Before agreeing to anything, consult an attorney. 

Why Public Transportation Injury Claims Are More Complex 

Public transit cases aren’t like regular car accidents. Here’s why: 

• Sovereign Immunity Laws. If you’re suing a government-run transit agency, you may face additional legal barriers and shorter deadlines to file a claim. 

• Common Carrier Laws.  Public transportation providers are held to a higher safety standard, meaning negligence is taken more seriously. 

• Multiple Victims. If a bus or train crash injures dozens of passengers, claims can become more complicated as multiple people seek compensation from the same entity. 

Because of these challenges, having an experienced personal injury attorney can make all the difference. 

Let Keller & Keller Handle the Legal Headaches 

Public transportation accidents leave riders with more questions than answers. Who pays for medical bills? What if the transit company denies responsibility? How do you fight back against a system designed to minimize payouts? 

That’s where we come in. At Keller & Keller, we know how to take on large transit agencies, government entities, and insurance companies. Our team will handle the legal process while you focus on healing. 

If you’ve been injured in a public transportation accident, don’t go through this alone. Call us for a free consultation—we’re here to fight for you.