WMATA Metro Accident Attorney in Washington DC

Girl on headset waiting for the train.

Are you dealing with the painful aftermath of a WMATA Metro accident in Washington, D.C.? Whether you were hurt while riding a Metro train or bus, fell at a WMATA station, or got hit by a Metro vehicle, you could be owed compensation. However, pursuing a legal claim against a governmental entity like the WMATA involves complex procedures and legal issues. If you try to handle your case yourself, you risk walking away with far less than you deserve – if you secure compensation at all.

Don’t make that mistake. Instead, turn to Marks & Harrison for the advice and advocacy you need to stand up for your rights and demand justice. Since 1911, our firm has fought tirelessly for accident victims in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. Our dedication to achieving maximum results is why we’ve recovered millions of dollars for clients in settlements and verdicts.

Don’t wait another moment to start pursuing your rights. Contact Marks & Harrison for a free initial case evaluation, and speak to an experienced Washington, D.C., WMATA Metro accident attorney today.

What Is the WMATA?

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates public transit services in the Capital Region. The U.S. Congress created the WMATA as an interstate compact between Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. All three jurisdictions collectively control the system along with the federal government.

Popularly referred to as the Metro, the WMATA provides rapid transit service via “Metrorail,” bus service via “Metrobus,” and paratransit services via “MetroAccess.” Today, the WMATA has 98 stations with 128 miles of track and 1,500 buses, serving a 1,500-square-mile jurisdiction with approximately four million residents. According to the American Public Transportation Association, WMATA ranks as the second busiest transit system in the U.S., behind New York City’s Metropolitan Transit Authority.

What Are Common Causes of WMATA Metro Accidents?

Accidents involving WMATA trains or buses can happen when people make mistakes like:

  • Inadequate bus, train, or track maintenance
  • Faulty equipment and malfunctions
  • Distracted driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Inadequate training of drivers or operators
  • Speeding
  • Tailgating
  • Running red lights and stop signs
  • Failing to yield the right of way
  • Turning or changing lanes without using turn signals or mirrors

The roads aren’t the only places at risk of accidents involving the WMATA. Accidents can also happen at bus stops and train stations because of:

  • Slippery floors or tripping hazards
  • Broken or missing steps or handlebars
  • Faulty elevators or escalators
  • Inadequate station maintenance

What Types of Injuries Happen in WMATA Accidents?

Accidents involving WMATA vehicles or facilities can cause a wide variety of injuries, including the following:

  • Lacerations and abrasions
  • Burns
  • Electrocutions
  • Broken bones
  • Dislocated joints
  • Ligament sprains or tears
  • Muscle and tendon strains or tears
  • Whiplash
  • Permanent nerve damage
  • Herniated spinal disc injuries
  • Internal organ injuries and internal bleeding
  • Facial injuries
  • Vision or hearing loss
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Crush injuries
  • Traumatic amputation or limb loss

Can I File an Injury Lawsuit Against the WMATA?

People injured in accidents involving WMATA trains or vehicles may have the right to pursue financial recovery through a lawsuit against the WMATA. However, filing a lawsuit against a government agency like the WMATA requires following specific procedures. In particular, accident victims must file a written notice of claim with the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia governments, depending on where the accident occurred.

Accident victims typically have shorter deadlines than the statute of limitations to file claim notices with the government. Consequently, if you’ve been hurt in a D.C. Metro accident, be sure to contact an attorney immediately. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to pursue fair compensation. Contact our Washington DC WMATA Metro accident lawyer today.

What Damages Could I Get from a DC Metro Accident Claim?

If you were injured in an accident involving the D.C. Metro, you may have the right to recover compensation for the following:

  • Costs of medical care, including emergency treatment, surgeries, hospitalization, prescription medications, doctor’s appointments, pain management care, medical or mobility equipment, and physical or occupational therapy
  • Long-term support services for severe disabilities, including home health care, housekeeping, or home renovations to install disability accommodations
  • Lost income from missed work or reduced earnings due to medical restrictions
  • Lost future earning capacity if you become permanently disabled from your job or other work
  • Physical pain and anguish
  • Emotional trauma or distress, including reduced quality of life due to disabilities or disfigurement that interferes with your ability to participate in activities or perform daily tasks

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Filing a Washington DC WMATA Lawsuit?

The statute of limitations for filing a train accident claim against the WMATA depends on the location of the accident. For accidents occurring in Washington, D.C., you have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. However, before you can file a lawsuit, you must provide the D.C. government with written notice of your claim within six months of the accident.

For WMATA accidents in Virginia, you have two years to file a lawsuit and one year to provide written notice of your claim to the Virginia state government. Maryland gives you three years to file a lawsuit and one year to provide the state government with written notice of your claim.

Because different deadlines will apply to your WMATA accident claim depending on where the accident occurred, do not put off talking with a Washington, D.C., WMATA Metro accident lawyer. Missing the appropriate deadline will likely cost you your chance at recovering the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Washington DC WMATA Metro Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been hurt in a WMATA bus or train accident, get the experienced legal representation you need to navigate the personal injury claim process against the transit agency. Contact Marks & Harrison today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Washington, D.C., WMATA Metro accident attorney. We are ready to discuss your legal options for seeking compensation for your harm and loss.