Public Transport Accident Compensation Claims

Whether you’re travelling to work, school or just on a day trip, you expect to be safe when using public transport. However, accidents do happen. Both train and road traffic accidents on buses or coaches can be caused by an overtired or distracted driver, mechanical failure or poor road  conditions.

If you have suffered an accident while on public transport, you may be eligible for compensation. At Compare Compensation Claims, you can compare public transport accident solicitors to find one that best suits you and your situation.

In What Circumstances Can I Make A Public Transport Compensation Claim?

If you have been injured whilst using public transport, as a fare-paying passenger, you could be entitled to compensation. Public transport companies are a service provider, and therefore have a duty of care towards their customers and are responsible for their safety. If they have breached health and safety regulations or there’s any negligence on their part, you may have a claim against the public transport company.

In the event of a road traffic collision, where one of the drivers involved in the incident is responsible for causing the accident, you may be able to claim directly against that driver’s vehicle insurance.

Some of the most common accidents on public transport are slips, trips or falls, which can be caused by a number of factors. Below are some examples of situations where you would be eligible to make a compensation claim:

• You fall while climbing the bus stairs because the driver pulls away too soonYou trap a limb in an automatic door and sustain an injuryYou are in an accident that’s caused by driver negligence.

Where you have suffered an injury from an accident, compensation can help to pay for medical expenses, loss of earnings due to an inability to work and travel costs to medical appointments. Common injuries in public transport accidents include:

• Broken or fractured bones
• Whiplash
• Psychological injuries
• Head injuries
• Back injuries.

The length of a public transport accident claim depends on how complex your injuries are and  how quickly the transport operator admits responsibility. For many cases, it takes around three months but it can take longer. When you first meet your solicitor, they should be able to give you more of an idea depending on your situation.

How To Make A Public Transport Compensation Claim

If you’re thinking of making a public transport compensation claim, the first step is to find a solicitor. By filling out our claim form, we can put you in contact with expert solicitors, who you can compare to find the best fit for you.

When you meet your solicitor, it’s helpful to have gathered as much information and evidence about your case as possible. Evidence which will help to build your case could include:

• Written details about the accident
• Witness information and statements
• An accident report to the public transport operator
• Medical records
• CCTV footage
• Photos of the scene
• Travel tickets or receipts to prove you were a passenger.

Fees And Compensation

Many solicitors work on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, meaning that if your claim is unsuccessful, you don’t pay a penny. If they do win your case, you pay what is known as a success fee. This is calculated as a set percentage of your compensation payout. Agreed with your solicitor in advance, it can’t legally be more than 25% inclusive of VAT.

The amount you can claim will depend on the type and severity of your injuries. To find an estimate of how much you could receive, use our claim calculator to see the brackets specified by the Judicial College Guidelines.

Time Limits On Making A Claim

It is best to start your claim as soon as possible to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve quickly. You must make your claim within three years, starting from the date of the accident. If your child is injured on public transport, there are no time limits on making a claim until they turn 18. From then, the three year time limit applies.