Public transportation is used by millions of Illinois residents every day. There are various forms of public transportation in the Chicago area including Chicago Transit Authority buses and trains, Metra trains, the suburban Pace bus system, medical transportation companies, and school buses.
Because of the weight and speed of trains and buses, a collision involving any type of public transportation vehicle usually causes more damage and harm than collisions that involve traditional passenger vehicles. Also, since these mass transport vehicles carry many people, accidents can result in many injuries and/or fatalities.
Any local or state government that provides public transportation has the legal responsibility to make sure the buses and trains operate safely. If an accident occurs, those injured or the family of those killed can seek compensation for their losses.
Our legal team is made up of experienced public transportation accident attorneys who can help you with your case. The first step is to get in touch with us to discuss your case.
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Common Injuries That Occur in Chicago Public Transportation Accidents
Public transit accidents that involve buses, trains, and other large vehicles can cause serious injuries and fatalities. Some common injuries that occur in mass transit accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Loss of limbs (amputation)
- Paralysis
How Our Attorneys Work to Prove Negligence in Public Transit Accidents
When a governmental agency offers public transportation services, such as subways, trains, and buses, they also take on the responsibility of keeping passengers safe. If an accident occurs, the agency may be liable for injuries. While this is true, in most cases, several parties and (as a result) insurance companies will be involved to protect the agency’s interests.
Sometimes, several parties are involved in the aftermath of these accidents. For example, vehicle manufacturers, contractors, and many others may be accountable for public transportation accidents due to faulty equipment or some type of negligence that contributed to the accident or how serious it was.
Our Chicago experienced public transportation attorneys will work to establish liability for any mass transit accidents. We do this by providing the following services for our clients:
- Finding and utilizing expert testimony in different fields to establish liability for the accident and your injuries
- Conduct a complete investigation to determine all factors that contributed to the public transportation accident
- Interviewing witnesses
- Finding all parties who may be financially liable for the accident
- Gathering and organizing evidence related to the accident, including any electronic records contained in a public transportation vehicle
At Drake & Collopy, P.C., you can feel confident that we will work with you to help you acquire the compensation deserved for the losses you have and will experience because of the accident. Our goal is to let you focus on your recovery – both physically and emotionally – while we fight for your legal rights.
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Types of Damages You Can Potentially Recover in a Public Transportation Accident in Chicago
The specific amount you can recover from your public transportation accident claim depends on the facts of your case and the legal issues involved. Some of the types of damages we can help you recover include:
Compensation for Medical Bills
All related past and future medical costs that you incur due to treatment required for your injury, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, assistive devices, rehabilitation, and medication, are included.
Compensation for Pain and Suffering
Compensation for all mental and physical suffering you experience because of your public transportation accident can be recovered.
Compensation for Lost Income
All the past and future wages that you lose due to your injuries will keep you from being able to work and earn money to pay your expenses, and care for your family can be recovered. The compensation can include income, benefits, commissions, and bonuses.
Damages for Wrongful Death
If you have a family member who passes away because of a public transportation accident, it may be possible to recover for all related medical costs, pain and suffering by the decedent, as well as:
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship or consortium
- Funeral and burial costs
Related Article: UNDERSTANDING LONG TERM CARE AFTER A CHICAGO PERSONAL INJURY
Steps to Take After Being Involved in a Chicago Public Transportation Accident
If you were using public transportation when an accident occurred, it’s good to take the right steps to protect your rights. These steps include:
- Get somewhere safe and away from danger
- Contact the authorities
- Collect all evidence at the scene
- Get medical care even if you don’t believe you are injured
- Contact our legal team
Contact Our Chicago Public Transportation Accident Attorneys
If you are involved in an accident while using public transportation, contact us to discuss your legal options. Our team will review and investigate the facts of your case and get to work right away to build a strong case. We will fight aggressively on your behalf to help you recover the maximum amount of compensation.
