The #1 Cleveland Public Transportation Accident Lawyer

Frank Piscitelli has built a strong reputation as a Cleveland personal injury lawyer, securing significant settlements and verdicts for victims of car accidents, catastrophic injuries, and other serious motor vehicle crashes.

His experience handling complex personal injury claims has given him the skills necessary to take on public transportation accident cases, where multiple parties and government agencies or private transit companies may be involved.

With a deep understanding of Ohio personal injury laws and insurance disputes, he knows how to build strong cases for victims of bus accidents, train derailments, and other transit-related crashes.

Holding a bus driver, transit authority, or another negligent party accountable in a public transportation accident requires aggressive legal action and thorough case preparation.

Frank approaches every case with dedication, strategic advocacy, and a commitment to maximizing compensation for injured clients.

He works to secure financial recovery for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs, ensuring his clients have the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

Frank’s proven track record in motor vehicle accident litigation demonstrates his ability to take on complex personal injury claims and fight for the best possible outcomes.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident or another public transportation crash, The Piscitelli Law Firm is ready to help.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Public Transportation Accident Lawyer?

At The Piscitelli Law Firm, we handle public transportation accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and you only owe legal fees if we win your case.

This allows injured clients to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages without the financial stress of paying for legal representation out of pocket.

With contingency fees, our firm takes on the financial risks of litigation, covering the costs of investigations, expert witnesses, and case preparation while focusing on securing maximum compensation for you.

If we don’t win, you owe nothing.

This structure ensures that our legal team is fully invested in fighting for the best possible outcome.

If you’ve been injured in a bus or public transportation accident, contact The Piscitelli Law Firm today for a free consultation.

Accidents involving public transit vehicles can leave victims with serious injuries, and the legal process for seeking compensation depends on how the crash occurred.

Passengers on a bus, pedestrians, cyclists, and occupants of other vehicles may all suffer injuries due to a negligent bus driver, another reckless motorist, or a mechanical failure.

Whether you were inside the public transportation vehicle or struck by one, identifying who is liable and taking the right steps immediately after the accident is crucial for protecting your rights.

Public transportation accidents often involve government agencies or private transit companies, each with its own set of regulations and insurance policies.

Unlike standard car accidents, claims against public entities may have shorter deadlines and stricter legal requirements.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident, train collision, or another transit-related crash, following these steps can help build a strong case for compensation.

Steps to Take After a Public Transportation Accident:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Your health comes first. Even if injuries aren’t obvious, get checked by a doctor, as some may worsen over time.
2. Report the Accident to Authorities – If you were a passenger on public transit, notify the bus or train operator. If you were a pedestrian or another driver, call 911 and file a police report.
3. Gather Information at the Scene – Collect the bus number, route details, driver’s name, and contact information for witnesses.
4. Take Photos and Document Evidence – Capture vehicle damage, injuries, street signs, traffic signals, and any visible hazards.
5. Obtain a Copy of the Police or Transit Report – These reports can provide key details about how the crash occurred and who may be at fault.
6. Do Not Give Statements to Insurance Companies – Government or corporate insurers may try to minimize payouts. Let a lawyer handle communications.
7. Preserve Medical Records and Expenses – Keep track of hospital visits, therapy costs, medications, and time missed from work.
8. Consult an Experienced Public Transportation Accident Lawyer – An attorney can determine who is liable, what deadlines apply, and how to pursue full compensation.

Public transportation accident claims can be complex, but The Piscitelli Law Firm is prepared to fight for you.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

Gather Evidence for a Public Transportation Injury Claim

After a bus crash or other public transportation accident, gathering strong evidence is critical to proving liability and securing fair compensation.

Public transit cases often involve multiple responsible parties, including the bus company, the driver, third-party motorists, or government agencies.

Without the right documentation, insurance companies and transit authorities may attempt to deny claims or minimize payouts.

Because bus crashes can cause significant injuries and physical pain, injured victims may not be able to collect evidence immediately at the scene.

This is where experienced attorneys step in to investigate, obtain key records, and build a compelling case.

The following types of evidence can help strengthen a public transportation injury claim:

• Police and Accident Reports – Official documentation detailing how the accident occurred and who may be at fault.
• Bus Company Records – Includes driver logs, maintenance history, and safety inspection reports.
• Surveillance or Traffic Camera Footage – Video evidence from inside the bus or nearby security cameras.
• Eyewitness Statements – Testimonies from passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers who saw the crash.
• Medical Records and Bills – Proof of physical pain, injuries, treatments, and long-term care needs.
• Photos of the Scene and Vehicle Damage – Visual documentation of bus crashes, road hazards, and any visible injuries.
• Transit Operator’s Employment History – Records showing prior violations, accidents, or safety infractions.
• Expert Testimony – Analysis from accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals.

A well-documented case increases the chances of holding all responsible parties accountable.

Damages in a Public Transportation Accident Claim

Damages in a public transportation accident claim cover both financial and personal losses, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care.

Serious crashes can cause severe injuries, psychological trauma, and financial hardship, making a fair settlement essential.

Transit authorities and insurers often minimize payouts, prioritizing profits over victims.

An experienced attorney can help you recover full compensation for both current and future losses.

The following are common types of compensation available in public transportation accident claims:

• Medical Expenses – Covers hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical treatments.
• Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity – Compensation for time missed from work and any long-term impact on income.
• Pain and Suffering – Includes physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Psychological Trauma – Compensation for PTSD, anxiety, depression, or emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage – Covers vehicle repairs or replacement for personal belongings damaged in the crash.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement – Additional compensation for long-term impairments or catastrophic injuries.
• Loss of Consortium – Damages awarded for the loss of companionship or support suffered by a spouse or family member.
• Punitive Damages – In cases of extreme negligence or misconduct, additional damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party.

Securing a fair settlement requires strong evidence and skilled legal representation.

Public transportation accidents involving buses, trains, and trolleys often cause severe injuries to passengers, pedestrians, and motorists.

These crashes can be complex, as liability may involve government agencies, private transit companies, or third-party drivers.

Common causes include traffic law violations, mechanical failures, and operator negligence.

Certain groups, such as children, elderly passengers, and individuals with disabilities, face higher risks in emergencies.

Strict legal deadlines apply, making it crucial to seek legal guidance quickly.

While no outcome is guaranteed, an experienced attorney can help victims pursue justice and fair compensation.

Common Types of Public Transportation Accidents:

• Bus Accidents – Collisions involving public, school, or private buses, often caused by driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or traffic law violations.
• Train Accidents – Includes derailments, platform injuries, and collisions with vehicles or pedestrians due to operator negligence or signal failures.
• Subway and Light Rail Accidents – Incidents occurring on platforms, inside transit cars, or during unexpected stops or derailments.
• Pedestrian Accidents – When buses or trains strike individuals at crosswalks, transit stops, or station platforms.
• Slip and Fall Accidents – Occurs due to unsafe bus stops, slippery train platforms, or sudden stops that cause passengers to fall.
• Vehicle Defect Accidents – Public transit crashes caused by brake failures, steering malfunctions, or poorly maintained vehicles.

Common Causes of Public Transportation Accidents

Public transportation accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from operator negligence, poor vehicle maintenance, or third-party driver errors.

Unlike private vehicles, buses, trains, and other transit systems operate under strict traffic laws and safety regulations, but lapses in oversight can lead to devastating crashes.

Several parties may share liability, including transit agencies, government entities, private companies, and maintenance contractors, making these cases particularly complex.

Common causes of these accidents include:

• Bus or Train Operator Negligence – Distracted driving, speeding, failure to obey traffic laws, or reckless behavior by the operator.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Transit companies failing to review safety issues, leading to brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions.
• Unsafe Road or Track Conditions – Potholes, icy roads, or defective train tracks causing loss of control.
• Defective Transit Equipment – Malfunctioning signals, broken doors, or faulty handrails inside vehicles.
• Improperly Trained Drivers – Inadequate training leading to operator mistakes, slow reaction times, or improper emergency responses.
• Third-Party Negligence – Other motorists failing to yield, running red lights, or crashing into buses and trains.

A thorough review of the accident is often required to determine the exact cause, site, and date of the crash.

While public transit should provide a safe mode of travel, passengers, pedestrians, and motorists are often put at risk due to avoidable mistakes and safety violations.

Cleveland offers a comprehensive public transportation system managed primarily by the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA), providing residents and visitors with various services to navigate the city and its surrounding areas.

Below is an overview of the key public transit options available:

• RTA Rapid Transit Rail System:
  • The Red Line is a heavy rail service connecting Cleveland Hopkins International Airport to Louis Stokes Station at Windermere in East Cleveland, with stops at major hubs like Tower City–Public Square and University Circle.
  • The Blue and Green Lines are light rail services originating from Tower City Center, extending through the eastern suburbs, serving areas such as Shaker Heights and Beachwood.
  • The Waterfront Line extends the Blue and Green Lines, providing access to attractions along the Lake Erie waterfront, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and FirstEnergy Stadium.
• HealthLine Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): The HealthLine Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a bus service running along Euclid Avenue, connecting Public Square in downtown Cleveland to the Louis Stokes Station at Windermere in East Cleveland. This line services key destinations such as Cleveland State University, the Cleveland Clinic, and University Hospitals.
• RTA Bus Services: RTA Bus Services are an extensive network of bus routes covering the city and surrounding suburbs, ensuring accessibility to various neighborhoods, business districts, and educational institutions.
• Downtown Trolleys: Complimentary trolley services operating in the downtown area, offering convenient transportation to popular destinations like the Warehouse District, Playhouse Square, and the Lakefront.
• Paratransit Services: Specialized transportation options for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessible transit solutions throughout the Cleveland area.

Accidents involving buses, trains, and other public transit vehicles can result in severe injuries, financial hardship, and long-term medical challenges.

Because public transportation claims often involve government entities, private transit companies, and complex insurance policies, pursuing compensation requires an experienced legal team that understands the unique challenges these cases present.

At The Piscitelli Law Firm, we fight for injury victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Frank Piscitelli has built a reputation for holding negligent parties accountable and securing significant results for victims of motor vehicle accidents and catastrophic injuries.

His hands-on approach ensures that every client receives personalized attention and a legal strategy tailored to their specific case.

Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another motorist injured in a public transit accident, our firm will investigate the crash, gather key evidence, and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

If you or a loved one was injured in a bus accident or other public transportation crash, don’t pursue compensation through the legal system alone.

The Piscitelli Law Firm is here to help—contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.