Texas Public Transportation Accident Lawyers

How Common are Public Transit Accidents in Texas?

Public transit accidents are unfortunately more common than many people realize. According to data from various sources:

• Bus Accidents (including school buses):  The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported a total of 2,743 bus crashes in 2022, or roughly one crash every 3.2 hours.
• Bus Accidents (excluding school buses):  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) reported 1,167 vehicles were involved in collisions with buses in 2022.
• Train Accidents:  In 2022, the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) database counted 818 unique train accidents/incidents not at grade crossings in Texas, and led to 89 fatalities and 405 injuries.

These figures underscore the importance of maintaining safety standards in public transportation and holding responsible parties accountable when accidents occur. If you or a loved one have been injured in a public transport accident, call our Texas public transportation accident lawyers for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Common Causes of Public Transportation Accidents in Texas

Public transit accidents in Texas occur more frequently than one might assume. Texas, with its large population and vast transportation network, witnesses a significant number of public transit accidents each year. Public transportation accidents in Texas can occur due to a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Negligence:  This includes factors such as speeding, distracted driving, failing to adhere to traffic rules, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance:  Public transit vehicles that are not properly maintained are more likely to malfunction, resulting in accidents.
• Inadequate Training:  Drivers who are not properly trained to handle public transit vehicles can make errors that lead to accidents.
• Defective Parts:  Accidents can occur due to the failure of critical vehicle components, which may be due to manufacturer errors.

These accidents can range from minor incidents to severe buses crashes, train wrecks, rideshare accidents, and taxi crashes. While exact statistics fluctuate yearly, the Texas Department of Transportation reports thousands of public transit-related accidents annually. The high figures underline the importance of understanding your rights and legal options if you find yourself a victim of such an accident.

How to Prove Negligence in Public Transportation Accidents

Proving negligence in a public transportation accident involves demonstrating that the party responsible breached their duty of care towards the passengers. This could be the driver, the transport company, or even the vehicle manufacturer. To prove negligence in a personal injury case, you must establish these four elements:

1. Duty of care:  You must establish that the party had a duty of care. For instance, bus drivers have a duty to drive safely.
2. Breach:  You must show that this duty was breached, such as a driver operating the bus while intoxicated.
3. Causation:  You need to demonstrate that the breach of the duty of care caused the accident. For example, the bus driver would not have caused the accident had they driven sober.
4. Damages:  You must prove that this breach resulted in an accident, which caused you to suffer personal injury damages.

Our team of experienced Texas public transportation accident lawyers can help gather the necessary evidence and establish these elements to build a strong case for you. If you were injured in a public transit accident, call our Texas public transportation accident lawyers for a FREE CASE ASSESSMENT.

What Should I Do After a Public Transportation Accident?

Taking the right steps following a public transportation accident can significantly impact the outcome of any potential personal injury case. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention:  Your health is the top priority. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately.
2. Report the Accident:  Report the accident to the transportation company and law enforcement authorities. Ensure an official accident report is filed detailing the circumstances of the incident.
3. Gather Evidence:  If possible, collect evidence at the scene. This can include photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to property. Also, gather contact information from witnesses and people involved in the accident.
4. Document Your Injuries and Treatment:  Keep a detailed account of your medical treatment, including doctor visits, medication, and rehabilitation. Also, maintain a record of how your injuries impact your day-to-day life.
5. Consult With Our Attorneys:  Contact our experienced Texas public transportation accident lawyers. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Remember not to discuss the accident details with anyone other than your lawyer, and avoid posting about the incident on social media as it can be used against you.

What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for Public Transit Accident Injuries?

If you’re injured in a public transit accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, depending upon the nature and severity of your injuries, as well as the circumstances of the accident. Here are the major categories of damages you may receive:

1. Economic Damages:  These are tangible, out-of-pocket expenses that can be calculated and proven with bills, receipts, or wage statements. In legal terms, economic damages are often referred to as “special damages“. Examples of economic damages include:
   • Medical bills:  This includes costs for hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any future medical expenses related to your injury.
   • Lost wages:  If your injury causes you to miss work, you can seek compensation for the income you would have earned.
   • Loss of earning capacity:  If your injuries are severe enough to prevent you from earning the same amount of money as you did before the accident, you may be compensated for this loss.
   • Property damage:  If personal property was damaged in the accident, such as a vehicle, you may be compensated for the repair or replacement cost.

2. Non-Economic Damages:  These damages compensate for the intangible, subjective losses that don’t have a specific monetary value. In legal terms, economic damages are often referred to as “general damages“. Examples of non-economic damages include:
   • Pain and suffering:  This is for the physical discomfort and emotional distress endured due to the accident and injuries.
   • Loss of consortium:  Compensation for the loss of companionship, care, or affection if the injury adversely affects your relationship with your spouse.
   • Emotional distress:  This is to compensate for the psychological impact of your injuries, such as anxiety, depression, or loss of enjoyment of life.
   • Permanent disability or disfigurement:  If the accident results in a life-altering condition or changes your appearance, you may be compensated for these changes.
   • Loss of enjoyment of life:  This compensation is meant to redress the diminution in the enjoyment or satisfaction in life’s activities due to the injuries sustained from the accident.

3. Punitive Damages:  These damages are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or reckless behavior and to serve as a deterrent for others. Examples of conduct which can lead to punitive damages being awarded include:
   • Gross negligence:  If the defendant’s behavior was exceptionally careless or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded.
   • Intentional misconduct:  If the defendant intentionally caused the accident, the court may award punitive damages.
   • Fraud:  If the defendant tried to cover up their wrongdoing or lied about the circumstances of the accident, punitive damages may be awarded.

Each case is unique, and the types and amounts of compensation available depend on the specifics of your situation. It’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options. If you have been the victim of an injury accident involving a public form of transport, contact our Texas public transportation accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Factors Which Impact the Value of Your Public Transportation Accident Claim

The value of your public transportation accident claim can be influenced by a variety of factors. These aspects determine the potential compensation you can receive, therefore understanding these factors is crucial to successfully navigate your claim.

Below are some of the major factors which influence the value of a public transportation accident injury claim:

• Severity of Injuries:  More severe injuries often result in higher medical expenses, higher lost wages calculation, and potentially a reduced earning capacity.
• Extent of Pain and Suffering:  This subjective factor requires thorough documentation of your physical discomfort and emotional distress.
• Identity of the At-Fault Party:  If a public transit agency is at fault, the claim process may be more complex due to governmental caps, shortened timelines for lawsuit filing, and immunity laws.
• Insurance Policy Size:  Larger policies often result in higher settlements, but may involve a more strenuous process.
• Gross Negligence:  If the other party’s behavior was exceptionally reckless, punitive damages could increase your claim’s value.
• Life and Financial Impact:  The extent to which the accident affects your life moving forward, including potential future financial losses, changes your claim’s value.

These factors, among others, play significant roles in determining the worth of your public transportation accident claim. It’s advised that you consult with an experienced attorney who can provide a comprehensive understanding of these factors and guide you in making an informed decision about your claim. Call our Texas public transportation accident lawyers today for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION.

How Long Do I Have to Make a Public Transport Accident Injury Claim?

The Texas statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, which includes public transportation accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. However, if the responsible entity is a governmental body, such as a city bus or a state-operated train, the time frame to file a claim is significantly shorter – typically between 6 months to a year, depending on the specific rules of the municipality or agency involved. Failure to adhere to these deadlines may result in losing the right to seek compensation for your injuries.

Other states may have different statutes of limitations; some are as short as one year, while others extend up to six years. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific laws in the state where the accident occurred.

Furthermore, many states impose caps on the amount of damages that can be awarded in lawsuits against government entities. For example, in Texas, the maximum recovery from a governmental entity is $250,000 per person and $500,000 per single occurrence for bodily injury or death, and $100,000 per single occurrence for damage or destruction to property (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 101.023).

Remember, these limitations and caps can significantly impact your case and potential compensation. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible after a public transportation accident to ensure your rights are protected and your claim is filed in a timely manner. Call our Texas public transportation accident lawyers today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Get Legal Assistance With Your Public Transit Accident Injury Claim

Call Our Texas Public Transportation Accident Lawyers Today!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a public transportation accident, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our seasoned team of Texas public transportation accident lawyers is dedicated to helping victims like you recover the maximum compensation possible.

We understand the complexities involved in these types of claims and are committed to guiding you through each step of the legal process. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that you owe us nothing unless we win your case.

Don’t let the negligent actions of others rob you of your peace of mind and financial stability. Contact us today for a NO RISK CONSULTATION and let us help you get your life back on track.

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