Public transportation is a convenient and affordable way to get around. However, accidents involving buses, trains, or other public transit systems can lead to serious injuries for passengers. When this happens, filing an injury claim can be more complicated than a typical car accident case.

This blog explores how public transportation injury claims differ and what injured passengers should know.

The Role of Common Carriers and Higher Standards of Care

Public transportation providers, often called “common carriers,” are held to a higher legal standard of care. Under Georgia law, common carriers must exercise extraordinary diligence to protect their passengers. This means that a transportation company can be held responsible if it fails to provide the safety required by law.

For example, if a MARTA bus driver in Atlanta causes an accident due to reckless driving, injured passengers may have grounds to file a claim. However, the process is not always straightforward, especially when government-operated transit systems are involved.

Key Differences in Public Transportation Injury Claims

Filing a claim against a public transportation company is different from private vehicle accident claims due to the following factors:

  • Sovereign Immunity: Public transit systems are often protected by sovereign immunity laws. These laws limit when and how passengers can file lawsuits. Injured passengers must file an Ante Litem notice within six months of the accident to preserve their right to compensation.
  • Shorter Deadlines: Claims involving public transit have stricter deadlines compared to private vehicle claims, where victims typically have two years to file.
  • Compensation Limits: Georgia law caps damages for public transportation claims. For instance, compensation for injuries may be limited to $1,000,000, while wrongful death claims can go up to $2,000,000.
  • Complex Processes: Claims against government entities require strict compliance with specific procedures, making legal representation crucial.

Pursue Justice in Public Transportation Accidents

Public transportation claims involve unique legal challenges, but injured passengers have the right to seek compensation. Whether the accident was caused by a negligent driver or unsafe bus conditions, acting quickly is essential. If you or a loved one has been injured on public transportation, contact The Williams Litigation Group to discuss your legal options and protect your rights.