What causes public transport accident claims?

While taking public transport is usually a safe way to commute in Ireland, accidents can occur due to the driver’s fault, the transportation company’s misconduct, or the malfeasance of a third party. Such claims arise when a passenger, a bystander, or the operator of another vehicle gets injured in a public transport road accident.

What types of injuries can occur?

• Bumpy road surfaces
• Collisions on trams
• Physical injuries on coaches and buses
• Train injuries
• Poor road light
• Wreckage in the road
• Poor driving or decision by drivers
• Lack of seat belts in taxis, cars, and vans
  

Steps to undertake when involved in a public transport accident:

Being involved in a public transport accident can be fatal and in this situation one should act according to these steps:

• Acquiring medical attention: After the accident, you should assess the injuries caused and seek medical help immediately. Reaching a hospital after an accident can help in reducing the risk of something major. If you go to hospital for treatment your accident and injuries will also be on record.
  
• Contact a gardai/police: Your accident should be reported to the nearest Gardai station. Ensure to collect all the required information from the Gardai and in cases of serious accidents, they’ll seek statements from both parties involved. Though giving a statement will remain your choice, it will be beneficial to do so.
• Gathering important information from all sources: Being unaware of your rights can make the legal work difficult for you. Make sure to collect all the information regarding public transport accident claims and the steps involved in making a claim.

 What should you do to make a claim?

Take pictures of any damage inflicted by the vehicles involved as quickly as practicable after the incident, if feasible.

Again, photographing any injuries or recording any facts such as the names of other people involved in the crash is beneficial if at all possible. These are all things to keep in mind when filing a claim for a transportation accident.

When it comes to transport accident claims of any kind, O’Reilly Doherty & Co. relies on our extensive experience. We handle most forms of accident claims daily and have assisted victims of bus, Luas, train, and other accidents.

It is advised to contact a solicitor who is experienced in public transport accident claims as soon as possible.