What to Do If You Slip & Fall on Public Transportation

Bus crashes aren’t the only way people can get injured on public transportation. There’s also a high risk of passenger falls because buses and streetcars are often full of slip and trip hazards. Given how many people use public transportation on a given day, it’s very easy for snow and rain to get tracked on board as people enter and exit the bus. If the driver stops or turns unexpectedly, passengers can lose their balance. The stairs passengers need to use to enter the bus can be steep and if there isn’t good lighting or if a handrail is missing or unstable, they can easily fall down and get hurt. 

Who is Responsible if You Fall on a Bus?

If you’ve been injured after falling on public transportation, don’t hesitate to contact a slip and fall lawyer for help. Liability for injuries involving buses can be a complex matter. For example, a big question is what, exactly, caused the fall? If you trip on something another passenger left blocking the aisle, a lawyer will be able to help you understand if you have a case against the passenger. 

But what if the fall was caused by an action of the driver, such as failing to dry off a wet floor? Or if it was caused by a maintenance issue the operator of the bus should have taken care of, like fixing a handrail on the bus? If so, it’s important to consult a lawyer so that they can help you make sure the appropriate parties are held responsible. Buses that are operated by regional transit authorities or state/local governments can have special rules that apply to them, such as restrictions that limit the amount of time injured people have to make a claim for damages. 

Evidence for a Slip & Fall 

If you fall on a bus, it’s important to make notes about things like which bus you were on, the time of your accident, the name of the bus driver, and the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw your fall. If you know exactly where the bus was located at the time of your fall, that may be helpful information to have. Also, try to take pictures of the scene of your fall and keep detailed medical records of any treatment you receive. 

Contact a Michigan Slip & Fall Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a fall in any location, Scott Goodwin Law can help. We’re experienced in handling both slip and fall cases and motor vehicle accidents, so we understand the intricacies of injury cases and the limitations that can apply to cases involving public transit. Contact us today to find out how we can help with your case so that you can get the justice you deserve. 

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