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If you have been involved in an accident involving public transportation in Philadelphia, the legal proceedings will need to be handled much differently than other kinds of accidents. This is true whether you were in a privately owned vehicle or a public transportation vehicle when the accident occurred.
Be Aware of SEPTA Limits
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, or SEPTA, is the agency that manages most elements of public transportation in Philadelphia, including accidents. SEPTA is protected in ways that can make it more difficult for you, as an individual, to seek compensation for your injuries.
There are specific channels that public transportation accidents must go through, as well as laws that only apply to public transportation. For those reasons alone, it is a good idea to contact an experienced Philadelphia public transportation accident lawyer from the Pearce Law Firm as soon as possible.
The process of determining who is responsible and making sure you get the compensation you deserve can be greatly simplified by working with one of our public transportation accident lawyers. SEPTA has limitations to liability, time, and financial responsibility all on its side, many of which won’t be in your best interests.
Statute of Limitations for Philadelphia Accidents
Normally, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Philadelphia is two years. However, public transportation has a special 6 months notice provision in addition to the 2 year statute of limitations. The special notice provision as it applies to SEPTA and injuries from public transportation is only six months.
This special notice for SEPTA and public transporation accidents involving governmental defendants requires written notice of the details of the accident and medical information. Even when a lawsuit is filed in a timely manner, proving reckless or negligent behavior on the part of SEPTA will require quick action to collect evidence and fully develop your case. The small window of time provided by the statute of limitations for public transportation accidents means that contacting us immediately after your accident is of the utmost importance.
Public Transportation Accident Expenses
SEPTA is protected by the Sovereign Immunity Act, which limits SEPTA’s financial obligations in accidents. The maximum that SEPTA is required to pay is $250,000 per victim, and they only have to pay up to a maximum of $1 million per accident.
This means that compensation awarded from a lawsuit against SEPTA has the potential to not fully cover all of your expenses. However, by reviewing the details of your accident, we can determine if you have any additional options available to you for financial compensation.
Experienced Public Transportation Accident Lawyers
In public transportation accidents, there can be many different people or entities potentially liable for your injuries. It’s crucial that you have an experienced legal team on your side to help you get the justice you deserve.
If you were injured in a public transportation accident in the Philadelphia area, the Pearce Law Firm can help you pursue compensation from SEPTA and anyone else who may have been at fault. To get started on your case, call our office at 215-557-8686 or submit the form at the bottom of this page.