Have you been injured using public transit?

August 16, 2016, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Have you been injured in an accident using public transit?

A recent case in the news about a man fatally injured in a bus/truck accident brought to mind a subject not often discussed. Accidents occur regularly to people using buses, subways, street cars, and LRT in Ontario. Whether you fell getting on or off the vehicle, or the in the vehicle, or if there was a crash and you were hurt, you may be entitled to compensation - but speaking with a trained personal injury lawyer is essential to a successful case.

Knowing what to do is key to success in any legal process. If you slip, trip or fall and are hurt you should advise the driver or other transit staff immediately. If staff aren’t around seek the assistance of other passengers and get their names and contact information. If you are hurt seriously then consider calling for an ambulance.

The public transit staff should take your accident seriously and an accident report should be completed and you should be given a copy. Make sure it’s complete and accurately reflects what happened to you and how you are hurt. If your injury isn’t serious enough to warrant an ambulance or going to the hospital, you should still see your family doctor as soon as possible to account for your injuries and make sure that you are alright.

If the vehicle you are in is in a crash or other accident the police will respond to the accident. If you are injured make sure that you indicate that and seek medical care immediately. Follow up with your family doctor.

In either case, whether you are in a crash, or you hurt yourself tripping, slipping or falling, you should consider consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. The claims process will be complex and if you are injured you don’t want to miss out on getting the compensation you deserve. Don’t sign off on any agreements without seeking legal advice.

Remember that your personal injury lawyer should offer you a free intimal consultation at which time they will ask you what happened, review the facts that exist, and then will advise you of how they think you should proceed with your case. If you aren’t comfortable with the lawyer, the firm or their legal opinion, then you should seek a second opinion. It’s crucial that you establish a trusting relationship with your lawyer.

Remember to be truthful at all times with all the people you speak to – the police, the EMT, the doctors and the lawyers. You should also keep a diary of all the events that occur, who you speak with, how your injuries progress, medications, and doctor appointments. The more information you have the stronger your position may be.

Being in an accident is always upsetting. Protect yourself, and seek information and guidance.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

The opinions expressed here, while intended to provide useful information, should not be interpreted as legal recommendations or advice.