The use of public transportation is not often considered an activity which can lead to injuries. This has left those who are injured while using transit without a strong voice advocating for their needs. The Law Offices of James M. Freeman has long advocated for vulnerable users of public space, so litigating for transit users was a natural progression for our practice.
Common carriers in Illinois are subject to the Common Carrier Liability Act, which holds the carriers to strict safety standards, and imposes a duty to provide the highest degree of safety for its passengers. The Common Carrier Liability Act sets forth that “whenever any property is received by a common carrier, to be transported from one place to another, within or without this state, it shall not be lawful for such carrier to limit his common law liability,” which is to provide the highest degree of safety for its passengers.
Common carriers such as the CTA, Metra and PACE have a duty to provide a higher degree of care for passenger safety and well-being, more so than private drivers and transportation companies. This duty applies not only to the transportation of passengers, but also to equipment maintenance and hiring standards. Failure to adhere to that duty may be considered negligence.
Mr. Freeman has extensive experience litigating cases against the CTA, PACE, Metra and other common carriers in which people were injured due to some negligence. Claims against the CTA are not limited to people injured on buses or trains. Suits have been successfully lodged against the CTA for security issues and hazards on CTA property which ultimately may cause an injury.
Let the Law Offices of James Freeman, P.C. advocate for your public transportation-related issue. Our experience helping other vulnerable users of public space will directly benefit your case.