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Representing Mass Transit Accident Victims Nationwide
Detroit’s public transportation system serves thousands of residents and commuters every day through multiple agencies and modes of travel.
The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) operates the city’s extensive bus network, while the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) connects riders to communities throughout Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties. Commuters and visitors can also ride the QLine streetcar along Woodward Avenue, the People Mover downtown loop, and several private shuttle and charter services. While these systems are vital to keeping Detroit moving, negligence—such as distracted driving, mechanical failure, or poor route management—can put passengers and pedestrians at serious risk.
Whether an injury occurs on a DDOT or SMART bus, a QLine streetcar, or the Detroit People Mover, Fieger Law stands ready to hold the responsible operators, maintenance contractors, or city entities accountable.
Holding Negligent Public Transit Operators Accountable
According to the American Public Transportation Association, people ride on mass transit vehicles for 10 billion trips a year. That number accounts for all forms of transit, including:
- Buses
- Taxi cabs
- Light rail
- Trolleys
- Subways
- Commuter trains
- Streetcars
- Cable car services
- Ferries
- Water taxis
- Monorails and tramways
- Paratransit services for senior citizens and people with disabilities
Under the law, these forms of public mass transportation are considered “common carriers.” As such, their operators have to meet a higher standard of care than other drivers. That means they are accountable for your safety and well-being.
Common Causes of Bus/Mass Transit Accidents
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Drowsy driving
- Lack of training
- Insufficient security personnel
Types of Bus/Mass Transit Accidents
- Collisions with other vehicles, stationary objects, buildings or pedestrians
- Sudden braking or stopping
- Closing the doors on a passenger
- Attacks of violence on the vehicle
- Letting a passenger off at a wrong or dangerous location leading to injury
Common Injuries From Bus or Mass Transit Accidents
Bus and mass transit crashes can cause severe and sometimes life-altering injuries due to the size of the vehicles, lack of seat belts, and sudden impacts. Victims may suffer:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Severe lacerations or abrasions
- Crushed or amputated limbs
- Head and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Soft-tissue injuries such as sprains, tears, and contusions
Because passengers often stand or move while vehicles are in motion, even a hard stop can lead to serious trauma or falls. Many survivors face lengthy hospitalizations, rehabilitation, and lasting pain.
Where to Seek Treatment in Detroit
After a bus or mass-transit accident, immediate medical evaluation is critical, even if your injuries appear minor. Detroit and the surrounding metro area offer several top-rated hospitals and trauma centers equipped to treat serious transportation-related injuries:
- DMC Detroit Receiving Hospital: One of the region’s busiest trauma centers, offering 24/7 emergency and surgical care
- Henry Ford Hospital: A nationally recognized Level 1 Trauma Center in New Center providing comprehensive emergency services
- Corewell Health Dearborn Hospital: Provides emergency and orthopedic trauma care for victims of bus and mass-transit accidents
- Henry Ford St. John Hospital: Located on Detroit’s east side, offering emergency and neurological care for accident-related injuries
Seeking prompt treatment not only protects your health but also ensures proper documentation of your injuries—an important part of any legal claim.
Can I Sue the City for a Bus Accident?
Bus/mass transit accidents are different from car accidents. You have a limited time to pursue legal action, multiple parties may be involved, and there are restrictions on filing claims against government entities.
That’s why you need to call Fieger Law. We won’t back down or be intimidated. No one will fight harder than our Michigan bus accident lawyers when it comes to protecting your rights and getting you the compensation you deserve.
Bus & Mass Transit Accident Attorneys Protecting You
For over 70 years, Fieger Law, a nationally recognized bus/mass transit accident lawyers in Michigan have fought and won judgments for our clients. If you or your family member suffered from a bus/mass transit accident, the Fieger Law team can help. Contact Michigan’s top law firm specializing in bus/mass transit accidents today for a free consultation.
