If you suffer an accident on, or involving, public transport, you could be eligible for compensation. But there are important steps you must follow.
All of us take public transport at some point, whether it’s a train to work, a taxi to a meeting, or a bus to the shops. And as with any travel, accidents can happen, with consequences ranging from bruises to breaks, whiplash injuries or worse.
What can you do about it?
1. Seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Your wellbeing should be your top priority.
2. Ensure the driver or conductor knows about the accident, and that you report it to the transport operator or employer (and, if relevant, the police).
3. Gather evidence. Note the time and location of the accident, take pictures of the scene and your injuries, and ask witnesses for their contact details and any photos or videos they take.
4. Keep all paperwork that could support a future claim, including your ticket and records of expenses such as medical treatment or taxi fares.
5. Contact a solicitor specialising in personal injury (PI).
A personal injury solicitor can guide you through all the steps for a successful claim. This will include assessing who was at fault, the extent of your injuries and the losses you have suffered, and what you will need to demonstrate.
As you only have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim, it’s important to seek legal advice as quickly as possible.
Published 16 October 2025
