The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is the city’s public transportation corporation, operating a fleet of over 1,500 buses and 129 peak-period trains. These systems help residents commute to work, visit friends and families, attend recreational activities, and more. While public transportation is a crucial part of society, accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. If you were injured on public transit in Washington, D.C., you have a legal right to file a claim, given that certain conditions are met. To learn more about your options and secure skilled legal representation, reach out to a knowledgeable Washington, D.C. mass transit accident lawyer today.
What is Public Transit?
Public transit, also referred to as mass transit or public transportation, is any mode of transportation that is available to the general public. It is characterized by shared use, as in multiple passengers and accessibility to the public. Public transportation does not require reservations or bookings in advance, but does generally require payment of a fare. These services operate on established routes and fixed schedules.
In Washington, D.C., public transportation plays a crucial role in the daily lives of residents. Whether you are commuting to work, headed to class, visiting friends and family, or simply doing your everyday grocery shopping, public transit is there.
Can I File a Claim After Being Injured on Public Transit in D.C.?
While public transit is generally safe, accidents can happen anywhere. If you have been injured while riding or waiting for public transportation, you may be able to file a claim for compensation. However, the process can be complex.
Because the WMATA is a government agency, claims against the authority are subject to different rules and regulations than legal action against individuals or private entities. If you want to pursue compensation from the WMATA, you must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the incident. You will only be eligible for damages if you can prove that the WMATA or one of its employees was responsible for causing your accident and injury.
When is the WMATA Liable for My Injury?
The WMATA has a duty of care to its passengers to take reasonable steps to ensure their safety and well-being. This includes taking action to prevent unnecessary accidents and injuries by performing regular inspections of vehicles and stations, doing maintenance to prevent malfunctions and hazards, training employees properly, having emergency procedures in place, and more.
If the WMATA or its employees breached this duty of care and the breach led to your incident, the agency will be considered negligent and can be held liable for your damages. You must be able to prove that they were negligent in some way. Common examples include a bus driver texting while driving, a train’s brakes failing from poor maintenance, defective parts causing an explosion, etc.
If you were injured on public transportation, understanding the steps you must take to secure compensation is crucial. Reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney for more information today.