What to Do if You’re Injured in a Public Transportation Accident

A common misconception is that you are safe while traveling some type of public transportation option and that accidents do not happen, or at least not often. The reality is that while it is the duty of public transit agencies to be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of their vehicles and the training and vetting of their operators, there are always examples of negligence where these expectations are not met, and riders are hurt in accidents. A public transportation accident has the potential to cause serious injuries, lifelong debilitation, and death.

If you are injured in a public transit accident in Oklahoma, you may be unaware of your rights. Further, you may be completely in the dark as to who would be responsible for paying you for the damages you suffered. Here, an Oklahoma personal injury attorney at the Putnam Law Office can help. The legal team at the Putnam Law Office can review your case and discuss who is liable and what options you have to pursue financial compensation.

What to Do in the Aftermath of a Public Transportation Injury Accident

The first thing to do if you are injured in a public transportation accident is to seek medical attention as soon as you can. Having a medical provider examine you sooner rather than later can help you get the proper treatment so you can improve your chances of the most effective and efficient recovery. Additionally, the documentation that you have seen a medical provider and a correct diagnosis of your injuries are both essential should you file an injury accident claim.

Next, meeting with an attorney can be advantageous after a public transportation injury accident. There may be several parties who are liable for paying for damages after a public transportation injury accident, and if you have to file a claim against a government entity, the rules for doing so are different than they are for filing against a private entity. For example, you only have one year to file a claim against the government in Oklahoma. This timeframe is much less than what you would have if you were filing a claim against a private entity, which is why getting the claims process started quickly is essential. If you miss the filing deadline, you will be unable to collect compensation.

Depending on how your accident happened, you may have a claim against any one or a combination of the following:

• The government agency that runs the public transit you used
• A private party that caused the accident
• The manufacturer of the public transit vehicle
• The maintenance team that takes care of the public transit vehicle
• A government agency that manages the roads and highways
• A private company that contracts with the government to build and maintain roadways
• Parts distributors
• And more.

Speak to an Attorney at the Putnam Law Office Today

A public transit accident could lead to product liability lawsuits, personal injury suits, or wrongful death actions. An attorney will be able to review your case and provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to take the right legal action so you can secure the highest amount of compensation.

For help after an Oklahoma public transit accident, please call the Putnam Law Office to schedule a free consultation at 405-724-7701 with an experienced attorney.