Who is Liable for Public Transportation Injuries?
May 27, 2025 - Personal Injury
Public transportation is a vital part of daily life for millions of Texans. From buses and subways to commuter trains and rideshares, people rely on these services to get to work, school, and back home safely. But what happens when an accident occurs and a passenger is injured while using public transportation? Who is legally responsible?
At Reyna Law Firm, we understand that injuries sustained on public transportation can lead to serious medical issues, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Determining liability in these cases is often complex, and victims need strong legal representation to pursue the compensation they deserve.
In this post, we break down the issue of liability for public transportation injuries and explain how our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you seek justice.
Understanding Public Transportation Injuries
Public transportation injuries can occur in various ways, including:
- Bus or train collisions
- Slip and fall accidents at stations or on vehicles
- Sudden stops or reckless driving causing passenger injury
- Assaults due to lack of proper security
- Malfunctioning equipment or vehicle defects
Whether you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or driver in another vehicle, you may have a valid claim — but determining who is at fault requires careful legal analysis.
Common Carriers Have a Higher Duty of Care
Public transportation providers are classified as common carriers under Texas law. This means they owe a heightened duty of care to their passengers. Common carriers must operate their vehicles safely, properly maintain equipment, and ensure the safety of riders to the best of their ability.
When they fail in this duty — through negligence, recklessness, or poor maintenance — they may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result.
Potentially Liable Parties in a Public Transportation Injury
1. Government Entities
In many cases, public transportation is operated by city, county, or state agencies. For example, a city-run bus system or regional train line may be operated by a government transportation authority. When a government entity is responsible for an accident, special rules apply.
Sovereign immunity laws in Texas can limit when and how a government agency can be sued, but injury victims still have legal recourse through the Texas Tort Claims Act (TTCA). However, these claims are time-sensitive — often requiring notice to be filed within 180 days of the injury.
2. Private Transportation Companies
Some transportation services are run by private contractors or companies, including charter buses, tour companies, and rideshare providers (such as Uber or Lyft). These companies can be held liable for:
- Negligent hiring or training of drivers
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Failure to follow safety regulations
If you were injured due to a private company’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
3. Individual Drivers or Operators
If a specific driver or operator was at fault — for instance, a bus driver who was distracted or driving under the influence — they may be held personally responsible for the injuries caused. In some cases, both the driver and the employer can share liability under a principle called respondeat superior, which holds employers responsible for the actions of their employees.
4. Third Parties
Sometimes, another motorist or external factor contributes to a public transportation accident. For example, a reckless driver who crashes into a bus or train may bear primary liability. Additionally, manufacturers or maintenance contractors may be held accountable if a mechanical defect or equipment failure played a role.
Public Transportation Injuries Across Texas and New Mexico
Reyna Law Firm proudly represents victims of public transportation injuries throughout Texas and New Mexico. If you were hurt in any of the following cities, we can help:
Even if you don’t see your city listed above — don’t worry. We can still help. Reyna Law Firm serves injured clients statewide and across state lines, and we’re fully prepared to come to you, whether you’re in a rural community or a smaller town. Our commitment is to make quality legal representation accessible to every victim, no matter where they live.
What To Do After a Public Transportation Injury
If you’ve been injured on a public bus, train, or other public transit system, taking the right steps early on is essential to protect your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Report the Incident
- Document the Scene and Injuries
- Contact a Qualified Injury Attorney
Let our team evaluate your case and help determine the best course of action.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
You may be eligible to recover:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Disability or disfigurement
Every case is unique. The best way to understand your options is to speak with a skilled injury lawyer.
Why Reyna Law Firm?
At Reyna Law Firm, we take pride in standing up for injured victims across Texas and New Mexico. Our legal team has experience going up against public transit authorities, private companies, and insurance carriers. When you choose us, you get:
- Proven courtroom and settlement experience
- Personalized attention and clear communication
- No fees unless we win your case
We serve clients 24/7 and are ready to meet with you in person or virtually — whatever is most convenient for you.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been injured while using public transportation, don’t wait.
📞 Call Reyna Law Firm 24/7 at (866) 915-3077
💬 Schedule a Free Consultation
💼 We fight for the compensation you deserve – and you pay nothing unless we win.
