Public Transit Accident Lawyers Guiding With Compassion
At QTMG, our lawyers understand that injuries sustained in a bus accident could be serious and sometimes even life-threatening. Whether you have suffered burns, scars, lacerations, whiplash, broken bones or any other serious injury, our lawyers can effectively evaluate your case in order to maximize your compensation for the injuries suffered due to a bus accident. If you sustained injuries based on any of the following scenarios, we can ensure you will be guided every step of the way.
- Your injuries occurred on the bus while travelling as a passenger on the local public transit.
- Your injuries occurred while crossing the road as a pedestrian and you were hit by the local public transit.
- Your injuries occurred while riding a cycle or motorcycle.
- Your injuries occurred while driving a motor vehicle.
Negligence Of The Public Transit Operator
Unlike cars, buses do not have seat belts that could protect you from a collision or a sudden stop made by the bus driver. For instance, in Ottawa, while travelling on OC Transpo, the operator may have been negligent due to distracted driving, impaired driving or for not taking proper precautions while in operation of a public vehicle. Our lawyers will investigate all possible reasons and gather evidence to establish an effective case on your behalf.
Our knowledgeable and experienced team of legal professionals can help determine how much compensation you deserve depending on the circumstances in which you were injured. If you have suffered injuries while travelling on the local public transit, our lawyers realize that you need special medical attention and financial assistance due to lost income for missed work. Our firm can help you get medical benefits and income replacement benefits, which you are entitled to receive.
Contact Your Local Bus Accident Lawyers
If you have suffered injuries in a bus accident, do not wait too long to contact us for a free consultation with a qualified QTMG lawyer. We can not only help you get the financial compensation you deserve but also the medical assistance you need. Call us at 613-604-9718 or email us. You do not have to travel to us if it’s inconvenient; instead, we can drive to your location anywhere in Ontario.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Accidents in Ottawa
What should I do after being injured in an OC Transpo or Ottawa bus accident?
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.
Can I make a claim if I wasn’t a passenger on the bus?
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.
Who may be held legally responsible for a public transit accident?
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.
What types of compensation can I receive after a bus accident in Ottawa?
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.
Are there deadlines for filing a claim against OC Transpo or the city?
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.
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