If you or a loved one has suffered personal injuries from an accident involving the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), an experienced CTA accident lawyer from our personal injury law firm can be your advocate in seeking compensation for damages.
What Kinds of Accidents Occur in the CTA System?
Accidents on public transportation services in Chicago that could involve the CTA include:
Bus-on-Bus Collisions
These involve crashes between two public transit buses.
Bus-on-Pedestrian Accidents
These occur when buses hit pedestrians crossing streets or boarding/exiting.
Train Derailments
These result from factors like a mechanical failure, human mistake, or weather.
Train-on-Train Collisions
These occur when trains rear-end or sideswipe each other.
Accidents at CTA Train Stations or Bus Stops
These may happen on platforms during boarding or exiting CTA buses or trains.
What Is the Chicago Transit Authority?
The Chicago Transit Authority is the second largest public transportation system in the United States.
- According to CTA’s ridership data, 231,181,366 passengers rode their buses and trains in 2024, nearly 12% more than in 2023.
- CTA’s 1,480 rail cars operate eight routes and 224.1 miles of track. CTA trains make about 1,888 public transit trips each day and serve 145 stations.
- The CTA does not operate school buses, but it does offer a number of programs and services to help students get around Chicago.
While the CTA bus system is generally safe, accidents causing severe injuries can still occur.
Is the CTA a Common Carrier Under Illinois Law?
The Metropolitan Transit Authority Act established the CTA and governs public transportation. The CTA is responsible for ensuring passenger safety and must take reasonable steps to prevent accidents and injuries, exceeding the duties of private individuals or entities.
In the event of an accident, the CTA is obligated to offer appropriate assistance to affected passengers.
What Causes CTA Accidents?
Mishaps like CTA bus accidents resulting in serious injuries can be caused by:
- Driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, impairment, or driver fatigue
- Mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues
- Poorly maintained or defective equipment
- Weather conditions, especially when combined with factors like icy platforms at CTA stations or difficulties boarding and exiting buses and trains
Who May Be Liable for CTA Accidents?
Because the CTA is an independent government agency, seeking compensation in a personal injury or wrongful death claim can be very complicated, so you will likely need experienced CTA accident lawyers on your side to help.
CTA can be held liable for an accident with a public transportation vehicle for failing to:
- Properly maintain buses and trains
- Properly train or supervise bus or train drivers
- Properly investigate accidents
- Take corrective action after an accident has occurred
Can I Sue the CTA for My Injuries?
Yes, you can sue the CTA for injuries from bus or train accidents. Since holding a government agency accountable can be complex and the CTA is self-insured, handling all claims for injuries—you will not be dealing with an insurance company— it’s best to seek help from a CTA bus accident attorney.
Do I Need a CTA Accident Lawyer?
If you were injured by a CTA train service or bus accident you might wonder how an attorney can help you, or if you even have a case to recover compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney from our legal team can help you:
- Review your accident and determine if you have a valid case
- Explain your legal options for recovering compensation
- Estimate the amount of compensation you might receive
- Explain how much time it will take to settle your claim
- Gather evidence and documentation
- Handle communication with the CTA and their lawyers
- Fight for fair compensation in court, if necessary
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive from a CTA Accident Claim?
Compensation from a CTA accident claim can include medical expenses (including an ambulance ride and medical bills for future treatment), lost wages, pain and suffering, and costs associated with long-term recovery or lifestyle changes caused by the accident.
What Evidence Is Important in a CTA Accident Claim?
Essential evidence includes medical records, photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, maintenance logs for the CTA vehicle involved, and any communication with the CTA.
What Is the Value of My CTA Accident Claim?
CTA accident lawyers consider several factors when they value your CTA public transportation accident lawsuit:
- Severity of injuries
- Duration of recovery
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Impact on lifestyle
- Pain and suffering
How Long Do I Have to File My CTA Accident Claim?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for CTA accident claims (70 ILCS 3605/41) (from Ch. 111 2/3, par. 341) is one year from the date of the incident, according to the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act.
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been seriously injured in a CTA accident, we can help. Our experienced personal injury lawyers have a strong record of winning cases and will fight for the full and fair settlement you deserve.
We Offer a Free Consultation
Get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation consultation on your accident case. With no upfront costs and a commitment to only getting paid if we win your personal injury case, we’re here to advocate for you every step of the way.
(312) 223-1700