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.

See What Clients Say About Thompson Law

Office Location: 3300 Oak Lawn Avenue, Suite 300, Dallas, TX 75219

Excellent

4.9

Based on 1982 reviews

Tony Gonzalez

Celia was very respectful and provided one of the best customer services I've seen!

Response from the owner:Tony, Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s wonderful to hear that Celia provided you with such exceptional service. We’re incredibly proud to have her on our team, and your kind words are a testament to her dedication to our clients. Providing respectful and outstanding service is something we strive for every day, and it’s so rewarding to know we made a positive impression. I’ll be sure to pass along your feedback to Celia — it will mean the world to her! Please let us know if we can ever be of service to you or a loved one again in the future. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

alana gonzalez

Lion Law was extremely helpful and efficient! 100 % satisfied with how they handled my case.

Response from the owner:Alana, Thank you so much for sharing your experience. We are thrilled to know you were 100% satisfied and that we could help make the process smooth and efficient. If you ever need assistance again, please reach out anytime. We are always happy to help. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Sonia Gonzales

Muy buen servicio al 100 siempre están al pendiente de tu caso y en las oficinas también son muy atentos y serviciales 10 de 10 😊

Response from the owner:Sonia, Gracias por compartir tu experiencia! Nos alegra muchísimo saber que recibiste un servicio de calidad y atención constante durante tu caso. En Thompson Law nos esforzamos por estar siempre disponibles y brindar un trato atento y servicial. Nos llena de orgullo saber que lo logramos contigo. Gracias por tu calificación de 10/10! Atentamente, Zack Thompson, CEO

Luis Gonzalez

I got rear ended by a big water truck and didn’t know what to do so I did a google search on the best lawyers I could find and Thompson law was the one with the best reviews so I called and the handled everything from doctors to physical therapy it was a very good experience

Response from the owner:Luis, Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad you found us and that our team could guide you through the process from start to finish. It means a lot to know we were able to help with your care and recovery after such a difficult accident. We truly appreciate your trust in Thompson Law and are always here if you ever need us again. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Femi Omole

I had an excellent experience working with Kyle and his team on my case. They were professional, knowledgeable, and kept me updated every step of the way. Their communication was clear and timely, which made the process much less stressful. Kyle and his team worked hard to ensure I received the best possible outcome, and I truly appreciate their dedication. A special shout-out to the two Genesis—Avalos and Gonzalez— and Barbara for their support. This team went above and beyond, and I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.

Response from the owner:Femi, Thank you so much for your kind words and review regarding how our team took care of you. We understand what a stressful situation it is when you’re in an accident and our goal is to take as much of that stress off you that we can. I’m happy to hear we accomplished that goal! If we can do anything else for you or a loved one in the future, we’ll be here for you. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Jesus Perez

Very happy with attorney Brittany Lightfoot and team. They helped me out so much through this process. Celia Gonzalez helped out me out until the end I’m happy for all the information and guidance I received from this team. I highly recommend them. They have a team that reaches out and keeps you updated. Thank you all again!!

Response from the owner:Jesus, Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that Attorney Brittany Lightfoot, Celia Gonzalez, and the entire team were able to support you throughout your case. Keeping our clients informed and cared for is always a top priority, and we’re so glad you felt that every step of the way. We truly appreciate your recommendation—thank you again for trusting Thompson Law! Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Antonia Gonzalez

Estoy muy agradecida por la atención que tuve en las oficinas de Thompson law ,tomaron mi caso cuándo yo pensaba que todo estaba perdido fueron muy amables y me ayudaron exitosamente en mi caso ,muchas gracias a todo el equipo de Thompson law y muy en especial a la paralegal que trabajo en mi caso Génesis Ávalos , bendiciones para todos

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and positive review! We're thrilled to hear that our team at Thompson Law was able to assist you when you needed it most. It's wonderful to know that Genesis and the rest of our team made a positive impact on your case. We truly appreciate your trust in us ad if we can do anything you or a loved one in the future please let us know. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Antonio Gonzalez

Excelente servicio. Fueron muy atentos en todo momento y resolvieron todo como se esperaba. Génesis fue muy atenta y amable! Gracias

Response from the owner:Antonio, Gracias por tomarse el tiempo para dejarnos una reseña tan positiva y por sus comentarios. Me alegra saber que Genesis lo atendió bien y que quedó satisfecho con nuestro nivel de servicio. Si podemos hacer algo más por usted o un ser querido en el futuro, llámenos. Atentamente, Zack Thompson, CEO

Russell Gonzales

I was very impressed in the service that Becky Villarreal and Bryan Felix provided to me and the dedication to the case at hand thank you all !

Response from the owner:Russell, I appreciate you taking the time to rate your experience regarding our handling of your Farmers Branch car accident case and for your compliments to both Becky and Brian for their dedication to your case. Thank you for putting your trust in our team and allowing us to represent you. If we can ever help you or a loved one in the future, please give us a call. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Daniela Gonzalez

I was rear-ended while pregnant so the last thing I needed was to deal with insurance companies regarding my claims, Dina, Jeff and Genesis were great. They always returned my calls and answered all my questions. I really recommend Thompson Law if you find yourself in a car accident.

Response from the owner:Daniela, I’m sure you went through a very frightening experience and I am pleased to hear we made that situation for you a bit easier regarding your car accident case. Thank you for taking the time to rate your experience with our team and your comments about Dina, Jeff and Genesis. We appreciate the recommendation and if we can ever help you or a loved one in the future, we will be here for you. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

merlin gonzales hn (dj cheese)

Response from the owner:Merlin, Thank you so much for sharing your experience with our team; we are grateful. If we can ever help you or a loved one in the future, please give us a call. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Veronica Gonzalez

I want to thank Thompson Law but especially Erica Mendoza who has helped my father with his case. She provided him with updates and has always been very professional in her approach with him. I’ve heard some of their conversations & she’s such a pleasure for him to speak too. He has felt that she actually cares about him and his injuries. Although his case isn’t finalized yet he feels he is in good hands and will count on a successful result. We appreciate her service & all that Thompson Law has done. Thank you.

Response from the owner:Veronica, We appreciate you taking the time to leave us this review and for your kind words. I am happy to hear your father is having a positive experience with our team. If we can ever help you or a loved one in the future, please give us a call. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Emilio Gonzalez

Best personal injury attorneys!

Response from the owner:Emilio, Thank you for your review and kind words. We try everyday to be the best to all our clients and appreciate you putting your trust in us. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Gonzalo Romero

This firm has excellent customer service, highly professional and the people who work there genuinely want to help you. With this said, I totally recommend this firm!

Response from the owner:Gonzalo, We truly appreciate you taking the time to leave a review and for speaking so highly of our customer service. If we can ever help you, a friend or loved one out in the future, please give us a call. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Cynthia Gonzalez

Bethany was amazing she went up and beyond to assist me. Great costumer service. Keep up the good job!

Response from the owner:Cynthia, Thank you for taking time to rate your experience with Bethany's handling of your Dallas auto accident case. I am incredibly happy to hear you thought Bethany was amazing and went up and beyond to assist you. If we can ever be of help to you or a loved one in the future, please let us know and we would be honored to serve you again. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Meilough Gonzales

I just wanna leave a five star rating for Veronica. I’ve been working with her the last couple of months she’s been working on my case and I really appreciate her help It seems that she’s been going out of your way to make sure I get the most out of my settlement, and I really appreciate Ive gotten the best service from as well . she sounds like a great employee, and I want to give her some great kudos to her, y’all should give her a bonus, and give her a raise.

Response from the owner:Meilough, Thank you for taking time to rate your experience with Veronica and comment on the service you have received from her. She truly is a great employee and really tries to go above and beyond to help. We did just give her a year end bonus and a raise, so we definitely agree with your assessment. Please let us know if we can be of service to you or a loved one again in the future. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Franyelis Gonzalez

Muy feliz por el trabajo en equipo de tompson law, todos fueron amables y estuvieron muy atentos a mi caso. Recomendados

Response from the owner:Franyelis, Gracias por tomarse el tiempo para calificar su experiencia con el manejo de su caso de accidente de carro en Frisco, TX. Me alegra saber que sintió que todos fueron amables y atentos. Háganos saber si alguna vez podemos servirle a usted o a un amigo en el futuro. Atentamente, Zack Thompson, CEO

Jenny Gonzalez

Had a great experience, everyone was nice when I called and went in person. Very nice office

Response from the owner:Jenny, Thank you for taking time to rate your experience with Thompson Law’s handling of your accident injury case. If we can ever be of help to you or a loved one in the future, please let us know and we would be honored to serve. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Vin Kumar

Patricia Gonzales and Mimi are very help full through out the case got completed. Very dedicated and easy to follow their guidence in providing all the necessary information to move forward with the case. Once again very happy that I worked with Patricia and Mimi.

Response from the owner:Vin, thank you so much for your 5-star rating of Thompson Law! Our driving goals are delivering exceptional case results and providing the best client experience possible. We are so glad that you had an excellent experience with our firm. Please know we are here for you anytime 24/7 should you need our help in the future. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Zachary Roos

Very professional, Adam Lippman, Patricia Gonzalez, and Mimi were all very helpful through out the process.

Response from the owner:Zachary, Thank you so much for your kind words about our team! We were so pleased to have the opportunity to handle your rear end wreck in Arlington for you. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent service and outcomes for our clients and we are glad that Adam, Patricia and Mimi were able to provide both for you! Sincerely, Jenny Fogel, Attorney

W Perkins

Patrica Gonzales took on my case as if I were family. She really explained everything to me and took care of everything. She got me a settlement that was more than fair. God forbid that I get into another accident, but if I do, I know who to call!!!

Response from the owner:W, Thank you for your kind words! Family is very important to us here at Thomson Law. In fact, we have several sets of siblings that work here together. We strive to always treat our clients like family as well. We are so glad to hear that Patricia was able to deliver excellent service, communication, and an excellent outcome for you. While we hope that you never need our services again, Patricia and the rest of our team would be honored to serve you or your friends or family again in the future should they need arise. Sincerely, Jenny Fogel, Attorney

Albert Gonzales

Best injury firm in Dallas/Fort Worth area! Excellent service

Response from the owner:Albert, Thanks for the 5-star rating & your comments! We strive to answer any & all questions a potential client may have...even if we can't take their case, we'll do our best to get them help. We also work to be responsive to all clients via calls, texts & emails. We all thank you very much for your feedback, and are always here 24/7/365 to answer any questions you have should you ever need our help again. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Don Johnson

Patricia was my case manager. I had my car accident in Ponder Tx. I hurt my lower back and shoulder and they took care of me by providing me medical attention. I really am happy with the services i received. Hopefully i don't need them again but if i do i know who to call. Mrs. Gonzales is the best!!!

Response from the owner:Don Thanks for taking the time to rate & review Thompson Law, and for recommending Patricia. She has extensive experience handling personal injury cases, and I’m pleased to hear that was evident in her answers to your questions. I hope you never need us again, but should you ever, feel free to request Patricia for your case. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Icy_Perfection

By far the best experiences with Thompson law. The staff and especially Patricia Gonzales. was amazing she was always keeping in contact and letting me know exactly what was happening the entire time. She was simply amazing. I’m grateful for her help in everything and always keeping in contact with me. Even when I got a new phone number she still reached out to me. I got an amazing settlement check. Thank you Patricia Gonzales.

Response from the owner:John, Thanks for taking the time to rate & review Thompson Law, as well as recognizing Patricia's work on your case as a passenger involved in a car accident when exiting a parking lot in Dallas, TX. We work hard to keep our clients regularly updated on the status of their case, and I'm glad to hear you felt we achieved that goal. Hopefully you'll never need our services again, but if you or someone you know does, we'd be happy to do so. Best, Zack Thompson, CEO

Valeria Gonzales

Always keeping you up to date with how your case is going. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Valeria, Thanks for taking the time to rate Thompson Law and comment on the service we provided. We strive to be responsive to all clients via calls, texts & emails. Customer service and the customer experience are very important in our industry, and we're pleased to hear yours was good with us.

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