Because of the sheer number of public transit vehicles, especially buses, accidents do happen from time to time. If you are a pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist or other road user and have been hit by a city vehicle, you have the right to seek damages from the Authority. A personal injury claim can help pay for the cost of an injury caused by someone else’s negligence. Discuss the accident with an experienced personal injury attorney before filing a claim against the the city.
Possible Accidents
Bus accidents are more common than rail accidents, especially where anyone other than passengers are concerned. Bus drivers don’t always keep a sharp look out for pedestrians and cyclists and may make a turn at an intersection and hit someone. Failure to yield the right of way at an intersection, distracted driving, intoxication, fatigue, or illegal drug use are the primary reasons why a car driver may be hit by a bus.
More rarely, poorly maintained vehicles or defective parts may be factors in a city accident.
Damages You Could Claim
It is important to file a claim as early as possible. Damages sought include any or all of the following:
- medical costs, including any future anticipated medical expenses
- compensation for any property damage
- replacement of any lost earnings, including any anticipated future lost earnings
- pain and suffering compensation
Making a Claim against the City
Personal injury claims depend on being able to prove that negligence caused someone’s injuries. This is not always easy as a very serious injury could mean the victim is hospitalized and unable to assess and collect evidence to show who was at fault. The primary sources of evidence in a personal injury claim against the offending party should include witness statements, the police report, any independent investigations and the vehicle repair yard’s damage report if a car or motorcycle was involved. If the injury was not quite so severe any notes taken by the injured victim and photographic evidence may help to support a valid claim.
As the city public transit system is a city entity, there is only a limited time to file a claim. The statute of limitations for most states and cities entities is one year from the date of the accident. Failure to keep to this time limit may mean that your claim is not accepted.
Why a PI Attorney Could be Useful
Using a personal injury attorney considerably increases your chances of winning compensation after a city accident and injury. The attorney should have experience dealing with injury claims and will assist you to follow the correct procedure and help you gather the documentation you need to support your claim.
Additional Resources
*Disclaimer
The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against the CTA, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
