Trying to recover compensation from the Chicago Transit Authority after a bus accident, Chicago commuter train accident or a fall on CTA property can be surprisingly complicated and can present traps for the unwary. The CTA was the beneficiary of a special statute which has resulted in the dismissal of many cases, which could leave you empty handed without the help of an experienced Illinois accident attorney.
When you are a passenger on a CTA bus or are riding on a CTA train, the CTA is considered a common carrier. This means the CTA must exercise the highest degree of care to assure your safety and prevent Chicago accidents. This is true from the time that you board the bus or train up until you have gotten off and reached a place of safety.
The CTA is frequently found liable for injuries to CTA passengers because of bus crashes, el train derailments and sudden stops. Dropping off bus passengers into hazards such as pot holes or broken concrete is also a problem.
Negligence claims can also be made against the CTA for Chicago accidents and injuries resulting from bus crashes with other vehicles, pedestrians being run over by CTA buses and trains, el trains striking vehicles, falls on CTA property and Chicago commuter train derailment.
In 2009, Governor Patrick Quinn signed legislation repealing the 6 month notice requirement for claims against the CTA. Prior to this action, victims of a Chicago accident involving the negligence of the CTA were required to file a notice of their accident within 6 months or face dismissal of their claim.
For people injured in an accident with the CTA on or after June 1, 2009, there is no longer a 6-month notice requirement. They only need to comply with a 1 year statute of limitations. People injured before June 1, 2009 must have complied with both the 6 month notice requirement and the 1 year statute of limitations or risk dismissal of their lawsuit against the CTA.
Because of these short time limitations and the technical requirements of the CTA notice of claim, it is strongly recommended that people with serious injuries contact an experienced Illinois accident attorney such as the bus and el train accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C.
Before making any decisions, request a free copy of our consumer guide, When You Are Injured – The Insider’s Guide to Illinois Accident Law. When you are ready, please contact the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. today to speak with our Illinois accident attorney about the many types of accidents that can result in a personal injury claim – 312-263-1080.