Bus and light rail accidents, in short
Injured on a bus, on the light rail, or getting on or off public transport in Canberra? You may be able to claim compensation. United Legal is a Canberra firm based in Fyshwick. We work on a No Win, No Fee basis and your first conversation is free.
Bus and Light Rail Accident: what you need to know
Passengers can be thrown around by sudden braking, injured getting on or off, or hurt in a collision. Pedestrians and cyclists can also be injured by buses and trams.
Which claim applies depends on how the injury happened. A collision or sudden braking may fall under the motor accident scheme, while a fall caused by a hazard at a stop or station may be a public liability claim. We work out the right path for you.
Public transport injuries we help with
- Falls caused by sudden braking or acceleration
- Injuries getting on or off a bus or tram
- Collisions involving buses or light rail
- Pedestrians and cyclists hit by public transport
- Falls at stops, stations and interchanges
- Injuries to bus drivers and staff
Injured on a bus or light rail
Passengers can be injured when a bus brakes suddenly, a door closes on them, or a light rail vehicle is involved in a collision. Falls while boarding or getting off are common, particularly for older passengers.
Injuries on buses and light rail are usually covered by the ACT MAI scheme. Report the incident to the driver or operator, get the route and time, and see a doctor promptly.
What you can claim after an accident
Under the ACT Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 you can claim defined benefits such as treatment and care, and income replacement while you cannot work, generally whoever was at fault. If someone else was at fault and your injuries are serious, you may also be able to make a common law claim for a lump sum.
Read more about motor vehicle accidents claims.
Evidence that helps your claim
You do not need to have everything before you call us, but these records make a motor accident claim stronger. Keep copies of anything you have:
- The police report number
- Photos of the scene, vehicles and your injuries
- Details of the other driver and their insurer
- Medical records and treatment receipts
- Payslips showing lost income
How much could a bus and light rail accidents claim be worth?
Every claim is different. The amount depends on how serious your injuries are, whether you meet the thresholds for a common law claim, your lost and future earnings, and who was at fault. We give you an honest estimate once we understand your situation, and we prepare every claim to get its full value rather than settling early.
Why people choose United Legal
- Three lawyers on every case. Your claim is checked by more than one experienced lawyer, start to finish.
- A local Canberra firm since 2004. We know the ACT schemes, insurers, doctors and courts.
- No Win, No Fee. No upfront costs, and you get a written costs agreement before we start.
- Serious injury experience. Our results include a $20m+ settlement and a $1.4m workers compensation claim.
Watch: bus and light rail accidents
What to do now
- Call 000 if anyone is hurt, and report the accident to police.
- Get the other driver's name, registration and insurer, and photos and witness details if you can.
- See a doctor, even if you feel fine at first.
- Lodge your claim with the insurer on time, and get advice before you sign anything.
Bus and light rail accidents: FAQs
I fell when the bus braked suddenly. Can I claim?
Who is responsible for a fall at a light rail stop?
I fell on a bus when it braked hard. Can I claim?
What about injuries at a bus stop or station?
How much does a motor accident lawyer cost?
Is there a time limit?
Find out where you stand.
Free claim check · No Win, No Fee