If you have been injured in a public transit accident and someone else was to blame, you may be entitled to compensation. A Washington, D.C. mass transit accident lawyer from our firm would like to hear about what happened to you. Why should you be stuck paying for expensive medical treatments out of your own pocket when someone else is to blame for the accident that caused them? Let us help you pursue damages.
Should I Call the Police After a Public Transit Accident?
When you get into a car accident, you call the cops to make a report. You should do the same thing after a public transit accident. Having a report will be helpful, but this is also important because an accident like this can involve many people. Some will need medical assistance, and the cops can help with that while they wait on paramedics to arrive.
After this, you should get contact information from any witnesses and take pictures of the vehicles involved and the accident scene. This can be used as evidence later. Once you leave the scene, get medical care as soon as possible. It’s wise to diagnose any injuries as early as possible so that you do not risk making them worse.
How Long Do I Have to Sue After a Public Transit Accident?
Washington, D.C. generally gives victims three years to sue for compensation. If another person, like the driver of a vehicle involved in your accident, was to blame for the crash and your injuries, you have that much time to move forward with your personal injury case.
There are exceptions though, and as a victim of a public transit accident you might run into an important one. If you are suing the government itself, the time limit is actually shorter. So if you believe that the bus driver was at fault, then you should act quickly. You must send a notice of claim to the city within six months. It should include info like:
- Your name
- Your address, phone number, and other contact information
- The date and approximate time of the accident
- What injuries were suffered in the accident
- Why you think Washington, D.C. should be liable
There will be an investigation, and if you do not hear anything back or your claim is denied you will have the chance to sue for damages.
What Kinds of Damages Can I Win?
Whether you sue a driver or Washington, D.C. itself, our lawyers will help you fight for a fair compensation offer. A reasonable offer should help make up for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain and suffering
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys
A public transit accident case can get complex quickly, so make sure that you have an experienced attorney on your side. Contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC to schedule your case consultation and learn more about your legal options today.