Public transportation is a convenient and often cost-effective way to travel. However, accidents involving buses, trains and other public transit vehicles can and do occur, sometimes resulting in serious injuries. These incidents can occur due to various reasons such as operator negligence, poor maintenance, defective equipment or hazardous conditions on the vehicle or premises.
If you’ve been injured in a public transportation accident in Ohio, it’s important to call the Law Offices of Tim Misny for assistance with your claim right away.
Common issues in public transportation accident claims
Navigating a public transportation accident claim can be complex, particularly because it may involve governmental entities with specific legal protections and procedures. Sovereign immunity is a legal doctrine that can protect government entities from certain types of lawsuits. In Ohio, however, there are exceptions to sovereign immunity that allow people to file claims against public transportation authorities.
Next, liability must be established. In public transportation accidents, potential liable parties often include the transit authority, the vehicle operator, maintenance contractors or even manufacturers of defective parts. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you identify all the potential sources for liability when investigating your claim.
Finally, if your claim is against a government entity, you may have a much shorter statute of limitations to file your claim—sometimes as short as six months. Working with our firm will ensure that you file your claim against the appropriate entity in the required time frame, which increases the chances of recovering compensation for your injuries.
What to do immediately after your accident
Your health and safety should be your top priority. Seek immediate medical attention even if your injuries seem minor. Prompt medical care creates a medical record that will be crucial for your personal injury claim.
Next, report the accident to the public transportation authority as soon as possible. Ensure you provide a detailed account of the incident and obtain a copy of the accident report for your records.
If your injuries permit, try to collect as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries and any damage to the public transit vehicle. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information and statements. Keep all medical records, receipts for medical expenses and documentation of any other related costs. Then call the Law Offices of Tim Misny to ensure that your claim is handled promptly and properly.
Consult an Ohio accident lawyer today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your public transportation accident claim. When you’re the victim of negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away.