Public Transportation Accident Lawyer | Bus Accident Lawyer

Chicago Public Transportation Accident Lawyer – Get the Full Compensation You Deserve

Injured in a bus, train, or public transit accident in Chicago? At Phillips Law Offices, we fight to ensure that public transportation injury victims receive every dollar of compensation they deserve for their injuries, medical bills, and lost income. With decades of experience, a record of landmark results, and recognition from leading legal organizations, our attorneys are uniquely equipped to hold city transit authorities and private carriers accountable. Phillips Law Offices is recognized by peers and adversaries alike as one of the most trusted law firms in Illinois for injury and transportation accident claims.

Free Consultation | No Fees Unless We Win | Call (312) 598-0917

A Track Record of Trust, Results & Leadership

Choosing the right lawyer for your public transportation accident claim is critical. The attorneys at Phillips Law Offices have more than 75 years of combined experience representing accident and injury victims throughout Illinois. We leverage our deep knowledge of mass transit litigation to recover life-changing settlements and verdicts for clients harmed on city buses, CTA trains, Metra lines, and more.

  • Established Experience: Our team has litigated transportation injury cases since our founding more than 75 years ago, led by the innovative approach of Attorney John G. Phillips.

  • Millions Secured for Clients: We have recovered substantial compensation for those injured by buses, trains, subways, paratransit vehicles, and other public and privately operated transit.

  • Outstanding Client Service:
    “We are grateful for Stephen’s thoroughness and support. He made sure our son’s voice was heard when the CTA failed him. We appreciate his relentless advocacy and the outcome he achieved for our family.” — Carla Rodriguez

  • 10.0 Avvo Rating – Top Rated for Personal Injury

  • 4.9/5.0 Google Rating from Over 95 Clients

  • National and Regional Recognition:

  • Leading Associations:

These accolades stand as proof of our long-term dedication to justice, integrity, and client care. When you hire Phillips Law Offices, you gain an ally respected by the legal community and trusted by families across Illinois.

How Our Chicago Public Transportation Accident Lawyers Can Help

A public transit accident can be very difficult to handle, especially when you have to deal with government agencies, transit companies, and insurance providers. Phillips Law Offices acts quickly and carefully to protect your rights and help you get the most money possible.

Here’s how our Chicago transportation accident lawyers can help:

  • Comprehensive Investigation: We immediately preserve evidence—such as security footage from buses or trains, driver logs, official CTA/Metra incident reports, and witness statements. Our team works with transportation experts to reconstruct accidents and determine the exact cause.
  • Pinpointing Liability: Transit injury cases often involve multiple parties: public agencies (CTA, Metra, Pace), contractors, operators, maintenance providers, or third-party drivers. We identify every responsible party to ensure your claim seeks full compensation from all liable sources.
  • Mastery of State and Federal Transit Law: Our attorneys know the complicated web of laws controlling public transportation in Illinois—from the Illinois Vehicle Code and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations to city municipal ordinances. We expose any regulatory violations or safety lapses to strengthen your case.
  • Dealing with Government and Insurers: Government entities often try to limit or deny claims using complex bureaucratic rules and aggressive adjusters. Our firm navigates the bureaucracy, filing timely and complete notices of claim, and ensuring your rights are protected at every turn.
  • Representing Severe Injury Victims: Public transportation accidents can cause catastrophic injuries, including brain trauma, spinal cord damage, fractures, and fatal injuries. We collaborate with medical and vocational experts to document all ongoing and future impacts, including the lifetime cost of care.
  • Trial-Ready Advocacy: We aggressively pursue fair settlements but will take your case to trial if government authorities or insurers refuse to settle for what you deserve. Our courtroom reputation gives us leverage—and, when necessary, we are fully prepared to win in front of a jury.

We are devoted to ensuring every public transit accident victim receives the focused attention and expert representation their case demands.

Types of Public Transportation Accidents We Handle

Mass transit systems in Chicago—including CTA, Metra, Pace, and private carriers—move millions every year. Unfortunately, lapses in safety, operator negligence, or system failures can cause devastating injuries.

We represent clients in a wide array of public transport accident cases:

  • CTA Bus Crashes (Routine Routes & Express Lines): These are accidents involving Chicago Transit Authority buses. They can happen on regular bus routes or faster express lines. Because buses share the road with other vehicles, crashes may occur due to driver mistakes, traffic conditions, or sudden stops.
  • CTA ‘L’ Train and Subway Accidents (Derailments, Platform Falls): These accidents involve Chicago’s elevated trains (the ‘L’) or subway trains. They can include trains coming off the tracks (derailments) or passengers falling from platforms. Such accidents can cause serious injuries because of the height and speed involved.
  • Metra Rail Accidents (Collisions, Boarding/Exiting Injuries): Metra trains, which provide commuter rail service, can be involved in crashes with cars or other trains. People can also get hurt while getting on or off Metra trains due to slipping or other mishaps.
  • Pace Bus and Shuttle Crashes: Pace buses and shuttles serve suburbs around Chicago. These vehicles can be involved in accidents due to busy roads, driver errors, or mechanical problems, leading to injuries for passengers or others on the road.
  • Airport Transit (O’Hare, Midway buses, trams): Accidents involving transportation at Chicago’s airports include buses and trams that carry passengers around terminals. These vehicles operate in busy, crowded areas where accidents can happen during loading, unloading, or moving between terminals.
  • School Bus Accidents: When school buses get into accidents, children riding them can be seriously hurt. These accidents often result from driver errors, bad weather, or other vehicles crashing into the bus.
  • Paratransit and ADA-Accessible Transit Incidents: These specialized transportation services help people with disabilities get around. Accidents here might involve wheelchair lifts malfunctioning or drivers making mistakes that lead to injuries.
  • Accidents at Transit Centers/Stations (Slips, Trips, Elevator/Escalator Injuries): People can get hurt while at bus or train stations by slipping, tripping, or having an accident on elevators or escalators. Poor maintenance or crowded areas can increase these risks.

Assaults or Injuries Due to Poor Security on Public Transport: Sometimes passengers are hurt because of violence or lack of proper security on buses or trains. These injuries may result from fights, robberies, or other unsafe conditions during the ride.

Common Types of Public Transportation Crashes

Bus-Car Collisions

These crashes happen when a bus and a car collide. This often occurs at busy intersections or when the bus is changing lanes. Because buses are large, these collisions can cause serious injuries.

Train Derailments

This happens when a train goes off its tracks. Derailments can cause a lot of damage and hurt many passengers because trains move fast and carry many people.

Boarding and Alighting Incidents

Passengers can get hurt while getting on or off buses or trains. This can happen if the vehicle stops suddenly or if there are problems with the doors or steps.

Pedestrian Strikes

Sometimes buses or trains hit people walking near stops, crossings, or stations. These accidents can cause severe injuries, especially in crowded areas.

Platform or Station Accidents

People may slip, trip, or fall at bus or train stations. They can also get injured on elevators or escalators if they are broken or crowded.

Mechanical Failures

Accidents caused by broken parts on buses or trains, like brakes not working or doors getting stuck. These failures can lead to crashes or injuries.

Assault or Lack of Security

Passengers may be harmed because there is not enough security on public transportation. This could involve fights or other violent incidents during the ride.

At Phillips Law Offices, we have extensive experience investigating all types of public transportation mishaps, including high-profile class actions tied to major CTA or Metra incidents.

Common Causes of Public Transportation Accidents in Chicago

Every accident is unique, but many transit incidents share root causes. Knowing what triggers these injuries helps us establish liability and build powerful claims.

Frequent causes include:

  • Operator Negligence (Distracted or Impaired Driving, Cell Phone Use, Fatigue):
    Sometimes the bus or train driver makes mistakes. They might be tired, distracted by their phone, or not paying full attention. This can cause accidents because the driver is not fully focused on the road or tracks.
  • Excessive Speed or Reckless Driving: Driving faster than is safe or making dangerous moves like sudden lane changes can cause crashes. Big vehicles like buses and trains need extra time to stop safely, so speeding is very risky.
  • Mechanical Failure (Poorly Maintained Buses, Trains, or Tracks): If parts of a bus or train, like brakes, tires, or doors, are broken or not properly fixed, accidents can happen. Worn-out tracks or signals can also lead to train crashes.
  • Unsafe Boarding/Exiting Procedures: People can get hurt when getting on or off public transit if the vehicle stops suddenly or if the steps and doors are not safe to use. Poor maintenance or rushed drivers can cause these accidents.
  • Inadequate Driver or Operator Training: If drivers or operators are not properly trained, they may make more mistakes behind the wheel or controls. Good training is needed to handle busy streets, tracks, or tricky turns safely.
  • Dangerous Road, Track, or Platform Conditions: Slippery roads, icy tracks, or poorly maintained stations make it harder for buses and trains to operate safely and can cause accidents or falls.
  • Improper Security Measures: Sometimes, there is not enough security on public transport to protect passengers from violence or attacks, causing injuries in conflicts or assaults.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Public Transportation Accident?

A serious public transportation injury may lead to overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and long-term pain. Phillips Law Offices is committed to winning every dollar of compensation our clients deserve, including:

  • Medical Expenses: This covers all the bills for your medical care. It includes visits to the emergency room, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medicine, and any future treatment you might need because of your injury.
  • Lost Income and Diminished Earning Capacity: If you couldn’t work because of your accident, you can be paid for the money you lost. If your injury means you can’t earn as much money in the future, you may get compensation for that too.
  • Pain and Suffering: This money is for the physical pain and emotional stress caused by the accident. It also includes things like anxiety, depression, or losing enjoyment in your daily life.
  • Property Damage: If your personal belongings or devices, like a phone or wheelchair, were damaged in the accident, you can get money to repair or replace them.
  • Disability or Disfigurement Compensation: If your injury causes a permanent disability or leaves scars, you can get extra compensation to help with how this affects your life in the long run.
  • Wrongful Death Damages: If someone you love died in the accident, your family can receive money to cover funeral costs, the financial support they would have provided, and the loss of their companionship.
  • Punitive Damages: In some rare cases where the transit company was very careless or ignored safety rules, the court may order them to pay extra money to punish them and prevent future accidents.

Every case is different. Our experienced attorneys collaborate with physicians, life care planners, and financial experts to accurately value the full impact of your injuries and secure a recovery capable of supporting your future needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Public Transit Accidents

Who is responsible for a bus accident in Chicago?

Liability can fall on the driver, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), private bus companies, or maintenance providers. Public transportation cases require careful legal handling because government agencies are often involved.

Claims against government entities like the CTA usually must be filed within one year. Missing this deadline may result in losing your right to compensation, so quick legal action is critical.

Yes, injured passengers may sue for damages if the driver’s negligence or poor maintenance caused the accident. Claims may include medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

Yes, public transportation accidents involve additional rules and shorter filing deadlines. Government agencies may also have legal protections, making it harder to pursue claims without a lawyer.

Surveillance footage, driver records, witness statements, and maintenance logs are essential pieces of evidence. A lawyer can subpoena this information to build a strong case.

Client Reviews & Case Results

550 k  Million Settlement

The Plaintiff, a 32-year-old man, was struck broadside in an automobile collision. Our client then underwent surgery on his back, which we contended was performed below the herniated disc that was causing his pain and symptoms. This case was settled after three weeks of trial before closing arguments were scheduled to begin.

Read more reviews on Google or on our website.

What to Expect When Working With Phillips Law Offices

We know the legal process can be daunting—especially after a traumatic public transit injury. Our approach is designed to be transparent, supportive, and tailored to your needs.

  1. Free Case Evaluation: First, you can talk to the lawyers for free. They will listen to your story, answer your questions, and let you know if they can help with your case. There is no cost or obligation to start.
  2. Immediate Investigation: Once you decide to hire them, the legal team quickly begins gathering all the details about your accident. They collect police reports, videos, witness statements, and other important information to build a strong case for you.
  3. Identifying Responsible Parties: They carefully look at everyone who might be at fault, such as the transit company, driver, or others involved. Making sure all responsible people or companies are included helps maximize your chance to get fair compensation.
  4. Claim Preparation & Negotiation: The lawyers organize all your medical bills, lost wages, and injury impact into one clear demand. They then talk with insurance companies and fight to get you the best possible settlement without you having to deal with them.
  5. Trial-Proven Advocacy: If the insurance company won’t offer enough money, the lawyers are ready to take your case to court. They prepare well for trial to argue on your behalf and get the compensation you deserve.
  6. Open Communication: Throughout the process, they keep you informed and answer any questions you have. You will always know how your case is progressing and feel supported every step of the way.

Meet Our Team of Chicago Public Transportation Accident Lawyers

Stephen D. Phillips

Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer

Stephen D. Phillips is the managing partner at Phillips Law Offices in Chicago. With over 40 years of experience, he has secured record verdicts and settlements for people injured in serious accidents, including transportation-related cases. Stephen is a former President of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and is recognized nationally for his skill and dedication to personal injury law. He earned his law degree from Loyola University and his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa. Stephen is also an adjunct professor at Loyola Law School, an accomplished legal writer, and a sought-after speaker on injury law.

Stephen Phillips is highly respected within the legal community, being a member of prestigious groups such as the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the International Society of Barristers. He has consistently been named an Illinois Super Lawyer and one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in the United States. His practice focuses on catastrophic injuries including traffic, trucking, and wrongful death cases. Stephen handles complex transportation accident claims with expertise and passion, making him a leading advocate for injured clients in Chicago and beyond.

Terrence M. Quinn

Terrence M. Quinn is a partner at Phillips Law Offices who specializes in fighting for clients seriously injured in transportation and other personal injury cases. Since joining the firm in 2001, Terry has earned a reputation for obtaining multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts in complex litigation, including trucking and automobile accidents. He is known for his thorough preparation, legal writing skills, and relentless advocacy in court. He serves on the Board of Managers for the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and is a member of other respected legal groups.

Terry’s practice covers a wide range of personal injury matters, but he is especially recognized for representing victims of serious transportation accidents with dedication and skill. His experience in handling complicated injury cases and his commitment to clients make him a trusted attorney for those seeking justice and fair compensation after public and commercial transportation accidents in Chicago.

Stephen J. Phillips

Stephen J. Phillips is a partner at Phillips Law Offices and a third-generation trial lawyer committed to protecting the rights of those injured in transportation accidents and other personal injury cases. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. Stephen has been involved in record-setting settlements and verdicts, including multimillion-dollar recoveries for victims of auto and truck crashes, medical malpractice, and product liability.

Known for his trial skills and courtroom technology expertise, Stephen has successfully tried many cases across Illinois. He is recognized as one of the top young trial lawyers in the country and serves on the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association Board of Managers. His dedication to aggressive representation and justice for injured clients makes him a leading transportation accident lawyer in Chicago, continuing the family tradition of excellence in personal injury law.

Speak with a Top Chicago Public Transportation Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one was hurt while using public transit, don’t try to take on powerful city or corporate lawyers alone. The experienced team at Phillips Law Offices is ready to guide you through every step, fighting for the compensation and justice you deserve.

Call us now at (312) 598-0917 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free conversation with an expert transit injury attorney. We respond promptly and can meet wherever is best for you—in person, by phone, or via video call.

We serve clients throughout:
Chicago
Cook County
Naperville
Aurora
Joliet
Schaumburg
Rockford
Oak Lawn

And communities across Illinois.

Can’t come to us? We’ll come to you. Phillips Law Offices—standing up for public transit accident victims, every day.

(312) 346-4262
(312) 346-4262

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