Can I Sue the City if I Was Injured While Using Public Transportation?

When using public transportation in Las Cruces, New Mexico, you trust the city to provide a safe and reliable system. Unfortunately, accidents can occur, leading to injuries that disrupt your life. If you’ve been injured while using public transportation, you may wonder if you can hold the city accountable. The answer depends on several factors, including the cause of the accident, the parties involved, and New Mexico’s specific legal requirements for pursuing claims against a government entity.

The City’s Responsibility to Passengers

As a provider of public transportation, the city has a duty of care to ensure passenger safety. This means maintaining buses, trains, or other forms of transit in a safe condition and adequately training drivers and operators. If the city fails in its duty—such as by neglecting vehicle maintenance, hiring unqualified drivers, or not addressing known safety hazards—it could be held liable for injuries that occur as a result.

Determining Negligence and Fault

To hold the city liable, you must demonstrate that negligence caused your injury. Negligence might involve unsafe road conditions, equipment failures, or driver error. For instance, if a bus driver was speeding or distracted, the city could be held accountable. However, establishing fault is not always straightforward, and there may be other parties involved, such as third-party contractors or manufacturers of defective parts. An experienced Las Cruces personal injury lawyer can help investigate and determine who is responsible.

Filing a Claim Against the City

Suing a government entity like the city of Las Cruces involves unique legal challenges. Under New Mexico’s Tort Claims Act, there are strict rules and deadlines for filing a claim. Generally, you must provide notice to the city within 90 days of the incident. Failure to comply with these requirements can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. Working with a knowledgeable attorney ensures that your claim is properly filed and handled within the legal framework.

Compensation for Your Injuries

If your claim against the city is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, government entities often have caps on the amount of compensation they must pay in personal injury cases. A skilled Las Cruces personal injury lawyer can help you navigate these limitations and maximize your recovery.

Why You Need a Las Cruces Personal Injury Lawyer

Pursuing a claim against the city can be complex and intimidating, but you don’t have to face it alone. An experienced personal injury lawyer will advocate for your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. They understand the unique legal nuances involved in claims against government entities and can guide you through the entire process.

Serving Las Cruces and Beyond

At the Law Offices of Kenneth G. Egan, we are dedicated to helping individuals in Las Cruces and the surrounding areas, including Doña Ana, Santo Tomas, La Mesa, Fort Selden, and Radium Springs. If you’ve been injured while using public transportation, contact us today for a consultation to discuss your legal options.