Do I Have a Claim if Injured on Chicago Public Transit?

 Posted on April 15, 2024 in Personal Injury

Public transportation in Chicago, such as buses and trains, is a popular way for residents and tourists to reach their destinations in the area. While this form of travel is relatively safe, accidents can be catastrophic when they occur. If you are injured while using Chicago public transit, you may be eligible to pursue a claim for compensation. A knowledgeable Illinois personal injury attorney can help you with your case.

Injuries Resulting from a Public Transit Accident

Even though Chicago public transportation injuries are not the most commonplace thing, when they occur, these injuries that result can be life-changing. Common and catastrophic injuries that result from this type of accident include:

• Whiplash, back injuries, and neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
• Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Broken bones or fractures
• Amputations
• Wrongful death

Who Can I Sue for a Chicago Public Transportation Injury?

Determining fault and who to sue for a Chicago public transportation injury can be a complex process, as many different individuals and agencies are involved in the operation and maintenance of Chicago buses and trains.

In general, public transportation operators in Chicago, such as the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Metra, adhere to Illinois common carrier law. This law states that a common carrier like Metra or the CTA may be liable for any accident or injury that occurs when operators act negligently or fail to complete their duty of care, which ensures safe passenger travel.

Other additional parties that could also be at fault in a public transit accident include:

• The bus or train manufacturer
• Maintenance operators and service workers for buses or trains
• Other drivers or passengers around the bus or train where the injury occurred
• Another passenger on the bus or train

When pursuing a claim against the party at fault for your injuries, it is important to work with a skilled lawyer who can help you go up against large agencies like the CTA and Metra and ensure that your rights for compensation are advocated for.

Contact a Chicago, IL Personal Injury Attorney

Dealing with your injuries after an injury on Chicago public transportation can be difficult, and the long-term consequences of these injuries may be extensive. It is important to contact a Chicago, IL personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your injuries to start pursuing a compensation claim.

Our award-winning attorneys at Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC have 20 years of experience and a strong success record navigating the complexities of public transit accident cases in the Chicago area. Call 312-236-6324 for a free consultation.