Public Transit Station Hazard Accident Attorneys

Danger Lurks in Public Transit Stations—Are You at Risk?

You probably don’t think much about it, but public transit stations are full of hidden dangers. Every day, commuters just like you step into these spaces, not realizing how easily an accident can happen. One minute, you're on your way to work, and the next, you're hurt, wondering what just happened. If that happens to you, a slip and fall accident attorney from Horn Wright, LLP, can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been hurt in a transit station accident, we’re here to help.  Our experienced team will fight for you, holding negligent transit authorities accountable so you can focus on your recovery.

The Hidden Traps Inside Public Transit Stations

You might walk through train or subway stations every day without thinking twice, but the reality is, danger is everywhere. Here's a quick rundown of what could be lurking beneath the surface:

• Treacherous Floors – Wet or uneven floors can easily lead to slips and falls. And believe it or not, a slip and fall at a transit station is one of the most common causes of injuries in public transit hubs—about 20% of all accidents happen this way.
• Faulty Machinery – Escalators and elevators break down more often than you’d think. Last year alone, there were over 1,200 injuries due to faulty escalators and elevators in U.S. transit stations.
• Crumbling Infrastructure – We're talking loose stairs, cracked platforms, and missing handrails. According to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), more than 35% of subway platforms are in disrepair.
• Security Failures – Inadequate lighting or poor surveillance can make transit stations a prime spot for crime. In New York, subway crimes jumped by 30% in 2022 due to these lapses.

One moment, you're rushing to catch your train, and the next, you could be dealing with an injury that throws everything off track. If a transit authority’s negligence caused your accident, speaking with a personal injury attorney is a crucial step toward getting justice.

How The Law Holds Negligent Transit Authorities Accountable

It’s hard to believe, but public transit agencies sometimes get away with putting commuters at risk. They have a lot of legal protection, but that doesn’t mean you can’t hold them accountable when their negligence causes harm.

Under The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), you can sue government entities for negligence, but strict guidelines apply. Additionally, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires transit stations to be accessible and safe for all passengers—including those with mobility issues.

Filing subway and bus station accident claims against a government agency isn’t straightforward. It’s complicated, and if you’re not careful, you could miss the strict deadlines or get the claim dismissed. That’s why you need an experienced attorney who knows the ropes.

Hurt at a Public Transit Station? Here’s What You Need to Do!

Public transit stations should be safe, but accidents happen all the time. But knowing the right steps can make all the difference in getting the compensation you deserve.

First, get medical attention ASAP. Even if you feel okay, some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. A doctor’s visit not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that helps back up your claim.

Next, document everything. Snap photos of the exact hazard that caused your injury—whether it’s a wet floor with no warning sign or a busted handrail. If anyone saw what happened, grab their contact info. Their statements could help prove your case.

Report the accident to the transit authority or station management. There’s usually an official process for reporting injuries, so make sure you file a report and get a copy of it for your records.

Save all evidence. Your torn clothing, broken items, and even receipts from medical visits matter. They help show what you went through and can strengthen your case.

Don’t talk to insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney. They’re trained to minimize payouts, and anything you say could be used against you. Let an experienced attorney handle the negotiations so you don’t get shortchanged.

You Deserve Compensation—Here’s What You Can Claim!

A serious injury can flip your life upside down. Work becomes impossible. The pain and stress take over. But you don’t have to face this by yourself. If negligence played a role in your accident, you could be entitled to compensation.

• Medical expenses – From ER visits to surgeries, rehab, and medications, medical costs add up fast. Did you know the average ER bill ranges from $1,200 to $3,000? And that’s just the start. Under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Safety Regulations, transit agencies must maintain safe environments for passengers.
• Lost wages – Taking time off work? If your injury keeps you from earning a paycheck, you can claim lost income. If your ability to work long-term is affected, future earnings may also be part of your compensation. The ADA also protects individuals who suffer permanent impairments from workplace discrimination.
• Pain and suffering – It’s not just about the physical injuries. Chronic pain, emotional distress, PTSD—these things take a toll. Studies show that long-term pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life. Cases involving public transit agencies often fall under Common Carrier Liability Laws, which require higher safety standards for public transportation services.
• Disability or disfigurement – Some injuries change your life forever. Spinal cord injuries, severe burns, or permanent mobility issues? Those deserve compensation too. Nearly 17,000 spinal cord injuries happen in the U.S. each year—many leading to permanent disabilities. Federal laws, like the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, help protect the rights of individuals who suffer long-term impairments due to accidents.
• Wrongful death damages – If a loved one lost their life due to unsafe conditions at a transit station, their family could receive compensation for funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering. With funerals averaging between $7,000 and $12,000, the financial burden only adds to the grief. Under the FTCA, families can pursue claims against government-operated transit agencies for negligence.

Figuring out how much you’re owed isn’t simple. That’s why having a lawyer in your corner is crucial.

We’ll Fight for You—Call Us Today

At Horn Wright, LLP, we don’t just handle cases—we fight for justice. If you’ve been hurt in a transit station accident, we’ve got your back. You deserve to work with a public transportation injury lawyer who knows how to take on powerful transit authorities—and win. Our team includes some of the most dedicated personal injury attorneys, and we’re ready to fight for you.

If you want the best legal team on your side, you should hire one of the best law firms in America. Our firm has been recognized for its outstanding legal advocacy and commitment to securing maximum compensation for our clients.

Call us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.