If you were involved in an accident with a city vehicle, you might be able to recoup compensation for your damages by pursuing a personal injury claim.
What Damages Might Result From an Accident
If you were a passenger on a bus operated by the city, you could have suffered serious injuries in a crash or a fall. If you were a pedestrian struck by a city bus, or if you were in a vehicle that was hit by a city bus, you might have suffered life-altering injuries.
Always report an accident to the proper authorities so you can make sure an accident report is completed. You should establish medical care right away, so you can work on recovering from your injuries.
Maintain documentation to support your claim, such as medical bills, medical records, proof of missed work and lost wages, and repair estimates. Here are some common damages suffered in such accidents:
- Past and future medical bills
- Past and future lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damages
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Disabilities
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim
While you can pursue a claim against the city if you can show they are liable for damages, it is much more challenging than pursuing a claim against an individual. Government entities are protected by sovereign immunity, but the Torts Claim Act allows a limited waiver of that immunity to bring claims against entities under certain guidelines.
You will have six months to file a claim against the city for damages after a bus accident. The proper documentation must be completed to file a notice of claim and all supporting documentation must be provided to show which damages resulted and why you think they are liable. If they don’t give a satisfactory response to your claim, you can then file a lawsuit.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If an accident with the city has left you with damages, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. Pursuing such claims can be challenging. Because accident injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, you have nothing to lose.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today to have your case reviewed by an attorney in your area who can determine the best way to proceed with your accident injury claim.
*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 The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA or RTA) or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
