Public Transportation Accidents

Public transportation accidents can devastate passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers. Buses, trains, and other mass transit vehicles often carry numerous passengers, meaning a single crash can result in widespread injuries. In Prince George’s County, these incidents frequently occur on busy routes and intersections, leaving victims with significant medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. A Prince George’s County public transportation accident lawyer can help you navigate this complex process and hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

If you’ve been injured in a public transportation accident, Foran & Foran, P.A. offers the dedicated legal representation you need. Our attorneys will identify liable parties, whether a transit agency, private company, or vehicle operator, and build a strong case to recover compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and begin your path toward justice.

Public transportation provides a lifeline for many Maryland residents, but it also comes with inherent risks. In 2024 alone, Maryland recorded 7,448 injuries, collisions, and fatalities involving public transit systems. Buses, trains, and subways are involved in accidents that often result in significant injuries to passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. If you or a loved one was hurt in a public transportation crash, a Prince George’s County public transportation accident lawyer can help you seek the compensation you deserve. These cases frequently involve unique legal challenges, such as determining liability among multiple parties or suing government entities, making professional guidance essential.

Public transportation accidents are not limited to a single type of crash. Passengers may experience injuries from bus collisions, sudden braking, or train derailments. Each incident requires a thorough investigation to identify the responsible parties and ensure victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses. By exploring the common causes and legal options available, you can better understand the aftermath of these devastating events.

Specific modes of public transportation are statistically more prone to accidents. For example, buses account for a significant portion of transit-related injuries due to their size, frequent stops, and close interaction with pedestrians and other vehicles. Subways and light rail systems in urban areas also pose risks, particularly during derailments or collisions at intersections. Maryland’s commuter rail services, such as MARC trains, have experienced accidents involving high speeds, making them particularly hazardous for passengers and crew.

While all forms of public transit carry risks, factors such as maintenance practices, operator training, and weather conditions play a critical role in determining safety. Investigating the circumstances surrounding an accident can uncover whether negligence on the part of the transit authority, a third-party contractor, or the vehicle manufacturer contributed to the crash. Addressing these risks helps hold responsible parties accountable while encouraging safer practices in the future.

Determining liability in public transit cases often involves multiple parties, creating unique challenges for accident victims. Transit agencies, drivers, maintenance contractors, and manufacturers may all bear some responsibility for an incident. For example, a bus collision caused by driver distraction or fatigue could result in liability for the operator and their employer. Similarly, mechanical failures due to defective parts or inadequate maintenance could implicate manufacturers or transit authorities. In negligent supervision cases the organization responsible for overseeing drivers and ensuring safe practices may also be held accountable.

Victims of public transportation accidents often encounter significant obstacles when filing claims, especially against government-operated systems. Maryland law generally grants government entities immunity from lawsuits; however, exceptions exist under the Maryland Tort Claims Act (MTCA) and the Local Government Tort Claims Act (LGTCA). These statutes allow claims to proceed but impose strict procedures and deadlines. Additionally, incidents such as wide turns performed improperly by transit operators may further complicate liability. Working with a skilled Prince George’s County public transportation accident lawyer can help you understand these legal pathways and pursue fair compensation for your losses.

Filing a claim against a government entity involves additional legal hurdles compared to standard personal injury cases. For example, claims under the MTCA require victims to notify the responsible agency within one year of the accident. Failing to meet this deadline can result in your right to compensation forfeiture. Additionally, the law caps the amount of damages recoverable from government entities, limiting recovery to $400,000 per individual claim and $800,000 per total incident.

Despite these restrictions, suing a government-operated transit system is not impossible. Claims against private transit operators, such as rideshare services or privately owned bus companies, follow different legal standards, often allowing for higher damages and fewer procedural barriers.

Maryland’s contributory negligence standard presents another challenge for public transportation accident victims. Under this doctrine, if a victim is found even partially at fault for their injuries, they are barred from recovering damages. For example, a pedestrian who jaywalked before being struck by a bus may face difficulty securing compensation under this rule.

Proving negligence by the transit operator or another responsible party is critical to overcoming contributory negligence defenses. Evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and operator records can play a vital role in demonstrating fault. Working with a knowledgeable Prince George’s County public transportation accident lawyer can strengthen your case and maximize your chances of recovery.

Public transportation accidents involving trucks and buses can cause devastating harm to passengers, pedestrians, and drivers. Foran & Foran, P.A. understands the unique challenges of pursuing claims against government-operated systems and third-party contractors. As compassionate Prince George’s County truck accident attorneys, we’ll handle your case with care and determination, working to secure fair compensation for your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation at 301-441-2022 or use our secure online contact form. We offer home and hospital visits for your convenience.