Many people in Boston use public transportation to get around the city, whether that’s taking the T, riding the bus, or even enjoying a scenic trolley ride. However, car accidents involving public transportation in Boston can have life-altering consequences. Victims may face chronic pain, limited mobility, and astronomical medical bills. When someone else’s negligence caused that accident, you should never be left to foot the bill.

At Earley Law Group, we’re dedicated to seeking justice on behalf of Boston residents injured in public transportation accidents. These cases can be complicated and challenging, but we have the knowledge, experience, and tenacity to demand the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more in a free initial consultation.

 

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Common Types of Public Transportation Accidents

Public transportation is a critical aspect of our city’s infrastructure, but it’s also a relatively common source of serious accidents. Some of the types of public transportation crashes we often see include:

Each type of accident has unique legal considerations, from proving negligence to determining which insurance policies apply to following special procedures for pursuing claims. Our attorneys will investigate your collision, determine who may be responsible, and build a compelling case for maximum compensation.

Why Public Transportation Accidents Are Different

Public transportation accident cases differ from typical auto accident claims in several ways, including:

  • Common carriers – In Massachusetts, public transit operators are considered “common carriers.” This means they have a greater responsibility for the safety of passengers than private drivers. Failing to meet these responsibilities can lead to liability for an accident.
  • Government entities – Many transit systems, including the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), are operated by government entities. Claims against these entities have strict procedures and shorter deadlines than ordinary personal injury cases.
  • Multiple victims – Because buses and trains carry many passengers, a single accident may involve dozens of claims, significantly complicating the process.
  • Insurance coverage – Public carriers may have layered insurance policies, and determining which applies to your case can be complicated.
  • Unique evidence – Establishing liability can involve evidence not found in an ordinary accident claim. That evidence can include black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, which require careful scrutiny and technical knowledge to analyze.

Who May Be Liable in a Public Transportation Accident?

Determining liability is often the most complex part of a public transportation case. Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:

  • Transit agencies – If an agency like the MBTA engaged in negligent hiring practices or failed to properly maintain vehicles, they may be liable for any accidents that result. They can also be responsible when their drivers’ negligence causes collisions.
  • Individual drivers – Bus, trolley, or train operators who act carelessly and cause injuries may be held accountable.
  • Maintenance companies – Faulty repairs or inadequate inspections can lead to serious accidents. When they do, responsibility may fall on the companies charged with these tasks.
  • Manufacturers – If a defective part caused a crash, victims may file a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
  • Other motorists – When another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident, they can be held liable for any injuries and property damage they caused.

 

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Damages You May Be Entitled to After a Public Transportation Collision

Compensation in a public transportation accident claim can cover both your financial losses and the physical and emotional damage caused by the crash. Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, your attorney may help you seek compensation for the following:

Medical Expenses

Medical costs after a serious accident can be financially devastating. The at-fault party may be responsible for ambulance services, ER visits, doctor’s appointments, prescription medications, surgeries, medical devices, physical therapy and rehabilitation, and future medical expenses.

Lost Wages

Injuries often mean time off work, and sometimes they can prevent victims from working ever again. You may be entitled to compensation for your lost wages after a public transportation accident. That can include hourly wages or salary, sick days, vacation time, and future lost wages. You can also be compensated for your reduced earning capacity if your injuries leave you unable to make as much as before or work at all.

Pain and Suffering

Chronic pain, limited mobility, long recovery times, the trauma of the collision, and financial distress can impact your daily life and mental health in various ways. Pain and suffering compensation seeks to account for these losses.

Property Damage

If your vehicle or any other property was damaged in the accident, the liable party may be responsible for repairing or replacing it.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit?

Massachusetts law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. Those rules vary depending on the nature of your case:

Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to recover compensation. That’s why it’s crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as you’re able.

How a Boston Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Public transportation accident claims can be particularly complicated, and handling one on your own can be overwhelming. A skilled Boston car accident attorney can help by:

  • Reviewing your case for free
  • Investigating the accident
  • Calculating your losses
  • Identifying all liable parties
  • Building a solid case
  • Handling government notice requirements
  • Working with experts
  • Negotiating with insurers
  • Representing you in court if necessary

Placing your case in the capable hands of an experienced lawyer can alleviate the burden from you and offer a distinct advantage when seeking the accountability and compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Boston Car Accident Lawyers

If you’ve suffered injuries in a public transportation accident, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Earley Law can help. We have spent over 20 years tackling these complex and challenging cases, recovering millions in settlements and verdicts for our injured clients. Our reputation is backed by the kind words many of them have left in over 700 Google reviews. Our clients appreciate what we call “The Earley Experience,” which means we’ll always treat you with the utmost respect, provide frequent and honest communication, push relentlessly for maximum compensation, and never charge you anything unless we win.

You don’t need to face the fallout of your accident alone. We’ll fight for your rights while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for your free consultation.