If you suffer injuries and damages in an accident involving city transit, you might be able to pursue a personal injury claim to recoup compensation for your damages.
What Kinds of Damages Might Be Suffered in an Accident?
There are several different kinds of damages that could result from an accident involving public transportation. If you are in an accident with a city bus, you should report it to proper authorities.
An accident report must be completed to provide you with proof to support your claim. You should establish medical care right away, otherwise you might negatively impact your opportunity to recover damages.
Keep 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 that might result from an accident:
- Past and future lost wages
- Past and future medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Loss of consortium
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Long-term disabilities
- Property damages
Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim
Pursuing a personal injury claim against the city is not the same as pursuing a personal injury claim against an individual. The process of pursuing an accident injury claim against a government entity is much more challenging and detailed.
If you want to recover compensation for your damages, you must file a Tort Claim Notice within 180 days of the injury. If your claim is denied or if they fail to respond, further legal action will need to be pursued by filing an actual lawsuit.
Some public transit entities self-insure, so it doesn’t work with a third-party agency to file claims, determine fault, or respond to claims. Being self-insured makes the process more challenging, because the company will fight to protect its own interests.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If an accident has left you with injuries and damages, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who is licensed to practice in that state.
Accident injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. Your attorney will not be compensated until you get a judgment or settlement for your damages.
To get your claim on track, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today. An attorney who handles personal injury claims in your area will review your case and determine the best way to proceed.
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 TriMet or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
