Our Ottawa personal injury lawyers are regularly asked whether we handle cases for people who are seriously injured while riding on a city bus such as the OC Transpo or STO bus.

If you are injured on the bus, it is very important that you advise the bus driver immediately and ask that he or she contact a supervisor.  Many injured people are shy or self-conscious about delaying the bus by “making a fuss”.  This is a big mistake.  It is much more difficult to make a claim if the incident is not reported at the time.

Make sure you get the name of the bus driver, the number of the bus, the location of the accident and, if possible the names of any witnesses to the incident.  Use your cell phone to record their contact information if you do not have a paper or pen.

If you do not own a vehicle, you may still be eligible for accident benefits after an Ontario bus accident through the bus’ insurance company.   If the insurance company does not contact you within 48 hours after the accident, you should contact them to access the accident benefit application package.

An accident on the bus may also give rise to damages for pain and suffering, loss of income and other types of compensation.  In most ways, a bus accident is treated like any other motor vehicle accident.  You have to prove the driver was negligent and you have to prove that your injuries are serious and permanent (among other things) in order to collect compensation for pain and suffering.

A limitation period and a notice period may apply to your claim following an Ontario bus accident.  Contact an Ontario personal injury lawyer as soon as possible for more information on how to protect your rights after a serious bus accident.