A public transport injury claim is a legal claim that can be made if you are injured while using public transport. To win your claim, you must be able to prove that the injury was caused by the negligence of the public transport operator. This negligence could include things like driving too fast or recklessly, failing to maintain the vehicle properly and failing to supervise passengers properly.

If you can prove that the public transport operator was negligent, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries. This could include compensation for medical treatment, loss of earnings and pain and suffering. Public transport providers, including local authorities, have a duty of care to ensure the health and safety of their passengers.

It is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible if you are thinking about making a public transport injury claim. Our team of road traffic accident claims solicitors at Beacon Law can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in negotiations with the operator of public transport.

Common causes of public transport accidents

Public transport accidents can happen on any mode of transport and can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Driver negligence: This is the most common cause of public transport accidents. Driver negligence can include things like a bus driver speeding, a taxi driver driving under the influence, distracted driving, and failing to yield the right of way.
• Mechanical failure: Public transportation vehicles are complex machines, and mechanical failures can sometimes lead to accidents. These failures can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor maintenance, defective parts, or operator error.
• Weather conditions: Bad weather conditions, such as snow, rain, or fog, can increase the risk of accidents. These conditions can make it difficult for drivers to see and control their vehicles, and they can also make it more difficult for passengers to maintain their balance.
• Passenger behaviour: Passenger behaviour can also contribute to public transport accidents. Passengers who are intoxicated, aggressive, or disruptive can create a dangerous environment for themselves and others.
• Infrastructure problems: Infrastructure problems, such as potholes, uneven pavement, or poorly marked crossings, can also contribute to public transport accidents.

These problems can make it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles, and they can also make it more difficult for passengers to board safely and exit vehicles.

Public transport accidents can have a devastating impact on the lives of those involved. Victims of these accidents can suffer serious injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can lead to long-term pain and disability, and they can also have a significant financial impact on victims and their families.

What should you do if you have been involved in a public transport accident?

If you have been involved in a public transport accident, there are a few things you should do. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.

Exchange information with the other people involved in the accident. This includes their name, address, and phone numbers. You should then call the police. The police will file a report of the accident, which can be helpful if you decide to file a personal injury claim.

Take pictures of the accident scene. This includes the damage to the vehicles involved, as well as any injuries you sustained.

If you would like to make a personal injury claim for public transport accident compensation, contact Beacon Law to speak to one of our specialist personal injury solicitors about making a claim on a no win no fee basis. Details on the claims process can also be found on our website.

How much compensation could you receive?

The amount of compensation you could receive for a public transport injury can vary significantly and depends on different factors. It is challenging to provide an exact figure without knowing the specific details of your case. Compensation for a public transport injury typically covers two main categories of damages:

Special Damages:

These are the quantifiable economic losses you have incurred as a result of the accident. They may include:

Medical Expenses: Compensation for current and future medical treatment, surgeries, medications, therapy, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you have lost due to your injuries, including future earning potential if your injuries impact your ability to work.
Property Damage: Compensation for any damage to personal belongings or other property.

General Damages:

These are non-economic losses that are more subjective and can be challenging to quantify. They may include:

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the accident and your injuries.
Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by the accident.

To determine the appropriate amount of compensation, insurance companies, courts, or settlement negotiations consider various factors, such as the severity and extent of your injuries, any medical treatment required, the impact on your daily activities, and any resulting disabilities or long-term impairments.

It’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can assess your case’s specific details, evaluate the potential value of your claim, and provide you with a more accurate estimation of the compensation you could receive based on their expertise and experience in handling similar cases.

What are the time limits for making a claim?

In the UK, there are specific time limits, known as limitation periods, within which you must make a public transport claim. These time limits are set by legislation and vary depending on the type of claim and the circumstances of the case.

Accidents and Injuries: For most personal injury claims, including those arising from public transport accidents, the general limitation period is three years. This means you have three years from the date of the accident or the date you became aware of your injury to commence legal proceedings.

Claims on Behalf of Minors: If the injured person is under 18 years of age, the three-year limitation period starts on their 18th birthday. In such cases, a parent or guardian can make a claim on their behalf before they turn 18.

It’s important to note that these time limits can be complex, and there may be exceptions or variations depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Additionally, gathering evidence and building a strong case takes time, so it’s advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible after the incident or injury.

If you are uncertain about the time limit that applies to your claim, it’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can provide accurate guidance based on your specific situation. They will ensure that your compensation claim is filed within the applicable time frame to preserve your rights to seek compensation.

How can Beacon Law assist?

Beacon Law is a specialist firm of personal injury solicitors with lots of experience in dealing with public transport injury claims. We can provide you with specialist legal advice on making a public transport accident claim and guide you through the process whilst negotiating the best settlement of your claim to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

We provide a high level of service to all our clients and work hard to ensure you receive the highest level of compensation for your injuries. We can assist with all types of personal injury claims, including road traffic accident claims, clinical negligence and accidents at work.

Beacon Law is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. To find out about our no win, no fee public transport injury claim funding and legal fees, have a look at the funding section on our website.