Public transport accident compensation
Public transport accident claims: Your rights, our fight
Public transport accidents can profoundly impact victims, resulting in physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. At GMP Law, we understand the complexities of public transport accident claims and are committed to helping you navigate the legal process to secure the compensation you deserve.
Our experienced team of lawyers specialise in public transport accident cases, ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Why Choose Gerard Malouf & Partners
Understanding public transport accident claims
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A public transport accident claim is a form of personal injury claim where the trauma resulted from an accident involving a public transport vehicle. These claims can be filed by passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers affected by the accident. In most cases, the claim is lodged against the public transport operator of the involved vehicle.
Public transport accident claims generally fall into two categories:
- Motor vehicle accidents: These involve collisions between public transit vehicles (like buses or light rail) and other vehicles or obstacles. In these cases, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the public transport operator was at fault for the accident.
- Public liability cases: These apply to situations where passengers are injured while on public transport. The transit operator has a duty of care to passengers, and if they’re negligent or fail in this duty, they may be liable for damages. For example, if a person slips and falls on a light rail due to slippery floors, they may have a valid claim if they can prove their injuries occurred on the public transport vehicle and resulted from operator negligence.
Eligibility for public transport accident compensation
You may be eligible for compensation if you’ve been injured in a public transport accident as:
- A passenger on the public transport vehicle
- A pedestrian struck by a public transport vehicle
- A driver or passenger in another vehicle involved in a collision with public transport.
- Injuries from sudden stops or starts
- Accidents while boarding or alighting from public transport
- Slips, trips, or falls on public transport vehicles or at stations
- Collisions between public transport vehicles and other vehicles or objects.
Factors affecting compensation
Many factors can influence the amount of compensation you may receive, including:
- Severity of injuries
- Long-term impact on your life and work capacity
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Loss of income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Level of fault attributed to the public transport operator.
At GMP Law, we’re committed to helping you understand your rights and options. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under the law.
No Win No Fee
Fee transparency that you can trust
At GMP Law, we’re committed to ensuring you have nothing to lose.
If we don’t win your case, you won’t pay a cent for our services. This means you can focus on healing without worrying about legal costs.
How it works
No upfront costs
No contingency fee
We’ll only charge you if we win.
We maintain integrity by carefully evaluating each case. If we believe it’s unlikely to result in compensation or if the costs outweigh the benefits, we won’t take it on.
This commitment to our client’s best interests, as well as fee transparency, sets us apart from other law firms.
With a 98% success rate and over $4 billion in settlements, we’re dedicated to delivering exceptional results for our clients.
Frequently asked questions about public transport accident claims
How long do I have to file a public transport accident claim?
If you’ve been involved in a public transport accident, it’s important to be aware of the strict deadlines for filing a claim.
Here are the key timeframes to keep in mind:
- Police Report: You must report the accident to NSW police within 28 days.
- Claims Timeline: For accidents after December 1, 2017, you must submit an Application for Personal Injury Benefits to the CTP insurer within three months.
- General Limit: It’s crucial to commence any legal proceedings within three years of the accident date.
Taking quick action can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
What if my public transport accident occurred in Victoria?
In Victoria, accident victims can make a claim with the Transport Accident Commission (TAC). TAC is a government-owned organisation that provides benefits to residents injured in transport accidents, including public transport. During the 2022-23 fiscal year, the TAC paid out $1.63 billion in compensation to over 45,000 people.
Are there compensation schemes for specific injuries?
Yes, some states have specific compensation schemes for certain injuries. For instance, if you’ve suffered a severe spinal cord injury in NSW, you may be eligible for the Lifetime Care and Support Scheme (LCSS), which can cover medical, rehabilitation, and other related expenses.
GMP Law offers free initial consultations to help individuals explore their options. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through the complex process of evaluating your situation.
Justice for victims of public transport accidents
At GMP Law, we’ve successfully represented clients from various walks of life, securing substantial compensation for public transport injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents.
$65,000 compensation for elderly Sydney man injured on public bus
Background
An elderly man from Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs was injured when a public bus he was travelling on came to a sudden stop.
The challenge
The client suffered injuries to his left leg and right wrist, which significantly impacted his daily life. He lived with his disabled wife and was responsible for most domestic tasks and gardening work, which he could no longer perform after the accident.
GMP Law’s approach
Arranged for the client to be assessed by an orthopaedic surgeon
Attempted to resolve the matter quickly through a conferred with the defendant solicitors
Filed proceedings in the District Court of NSW when initial negotiations were unsuccessful
Secured a second settlement conference.
Outcome
We successfully negotiated a settlement of $65,000 in compensation, providing the client with financial support and acknowledgement of his injuries’ ongoing effects.
Real cases, real results
The compensation claim process: Your journey with GMP Law
Initial consultation
Evidence gathering
Claim submission
Negotiation
Court representation
Ongoing support
Our promise to you
Why trust GMP Law with motor accident injury claim?
At GMP Law, we handle your claim so you can concentrate on what matters most: your recovery.
We commit to
Clear, straightforward communication
Regular updates on your case as it progresses
A personal injury lawyer who understands your unique situation
Vigorous negotiation to maximise your compensation
Empathetic support throughout your journey
Specialised knowledge
Our accredited personal injury lawyers have years of experience in accident injury claims, giving us deep insight into the nuances of these claims.
Proven track record
Difficult case policy
Australia-wide assistance
With lawyers across the country, we’re here to help, wherever you are.
Meet the motor vehicle accident claims team
Meet some of the diverse and dynamic compensation lawyers who support our clients with their car accident claims.
We're here to help maximise your compensation
Book your free, confidential consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers using the form below, or simply call us 1800 004 878.
