Public Transit Accident Lawyers Guiding With Compassion

If you’ve been injured in a bus accident involving OC Transpo or any public transit in Ottawa, it’s important to take the following steps:

• Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some conditions, like internal injuries or whiplash, may not show symptoms right away.
• Call 911 or report the incident to the police, especially if the accident caused serious harm or involved multiple parties.
• Document everything—take photos of the scene, the bus, your injuries, and gather names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Get a copy of the police or accident report, which will be critical for your claim.
• Consult an Ottawa bus accident lawyer as soon as possible. Legal guidance ensures your rights are protected from the beginning and that all necessary steps, such as notifying the municipality, are taken within the required timeframes.

You can file a claim even if you weren’t riding the bus. Compensation may be available if:

• You were a pedestrian struck by a public transit vehicle while crossing or walking near a road.
• You were a cyclist or motorcyclist hit by an OC Transpo bus.
• You were driving another vehicle involved in a collision caused by the bus or its driver.

In each case, you may be eligible for accident benefits under Ontario’s insurance system, and if negligence can be proven, you may also pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Our legal team will assess your eligibility and explain your options.

Liability depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. The responsible party may include

• The bus operator, if the accident occurred due to distracted driving, speeding, impairment, or failure to follow safety protocols.
• OC Transpo or the public transit authority, especially if poor vehicle maintenance, driver training, or scheduling issues contributed to the incident.
• Third-party drivers, if another vehicle’s actions caused or contributed to the crash.

We conduct a thorough investigation to identify the liable parties, gather supporting evidence, and build a strong case to support your claim for damages.

Compensation can vary depending on the severity of your injuries, your income level, and your recovery needs. You may be entitled to:

• Medical and rehabilitation expenses, including hospital visits, physiotherapy, and medication.
• Income replacement benefits if your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently.
• Pain and suffering damage, if your quality of life has been significantly affected.
• Costs for ongoing care or therapy, especially for long-term or catastrophic injuries.
• Out-of-pocket expenses, such as transportation, assistive devices, or home modifications.

Our lawyers will work with you to evaluate your damages and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to under Ontario law.

Ontario has strict timelines for filing personal injury claims:

• You generally have up to two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
• However, if your claim involves a public authority like OC Transpo or the City of Ottawa, you must provide written notice within 10 days of the incident. This notice must include details of the accident and the nature of your claim.

Failing to meet these deadlines could result in losing your right to pursue compensation. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an Ottawa bus accident lawyer as soon as possible after your injury.