Transport Accident Claims

Up and down the country people use various forms of public transport on a daily basis, in order to get to and from work or to go about their day-to-day business. They are to be driven and operated in a way which is safe, and which complies with the operators licensing certificates.

The vehicles and equipment must be routinely serviced and maintained to an adequate standard, and transport operators must avoid situations of over crowding and ensure that adequate capacity is provided at peak times for fare paying passengers.

The drivers or operators of public transport must not be under the influence of alcohol and must be suitably rested before the journey starts. Their employers must also ensure that adequate breaks are scheduled into the drivers roster.

However, If these "best practices" are not observed then an accident can occur which in all likelihood could have been avoided,which, give rise to the grounds for a claim.

 Am I entitled to transport accident compensation?

Commonly injuries in this area arise out of accidents which occur on trams, trains, boats and aircraft, as well as at train stations, airports and shipping docks.

If an accident should occur whilst travelling by public transport then the operator is required to make a contemporaneous record of the incident. If a successful claim is to be made, then it is important to retain proof of travel in the form of a ticket or travel pass relating to that specific journey during which the event has taken place.

However, it is worth noting that claims which are brought against airlines or shipping companies tend to be governed by international conventions and you may only have a period of two years from the incident date to put the case into Court. Therefore it is imperative that you do not delay in bringing your claim.
Graham Coffey & Co’s transport team can assist with bringing this type of claim against the carrier or transport provider. 

 Case Study

We represented a Mr C of Hampshire who was flying on holiday out of London Heathrow Airport with a Caribbean-based airline carrier. During the flight he advised the cabin crew that he was going to sleep and as he was over 6 foot tall his legs would stick out in the aisle. Notwithstanding this, a member of the cabin crew hit his leg with the drinks trolley causing a painful injury to his right knee. 

Graham Coffey & Co brought the claim against the airline within the two year period and although the airlines lawyers initially rejected the claim, the matter was vigorously pursued and Mr C received an award of several thousand pounds in damages for both the injury and loss of enjoyment of the holiday. 

Need Our Help?

Contact us here If you have been injured in this way and are looking to claim for a transport accident, please contact our team who will be happy to assist.