In most cases, using public transport is safe, but things can go wrong. If the bus, train or coach you’re travelling on is involved in a crash or makes a sudden stop, the potential for injury is there.
According to the Department for Transport, 2,239 people are estimated to have been injured or killed on buses or coaches in 2024. This shows that these vehicles are vulnerable to being caught up in accidents, irrespective of whether or not they have been recklessly driven. The risks to passengers in public transport accidents are often heightened because, in many cases, buses and trains don’t have seat belts.
Public transport injuries are the result of accidents involving buses, coaches, taxis, light rail systems – such as the London Underground - and trains. Examples of accidents on public transport include:
Drivers have a duty to ensure the safety of all passengers, although if making a claim, the transport company is liable as it employs the drivers. It’s also responsible for the maintenance of its fleet of vehicles. Any lack of care involved can also make it responsible.
In the event of a crash where a car driver is at fault for the accident, they are the ones to claim compensation from.
If your accident happened while you were abroad, you can also take a look at our car accidents abroad page.
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries from public transport accidents. The laws around compensation for whiplash have changed. You can now receive £275 for a case lasting up to three months, while a two-year injury could see you receive £4,830.
If your accident happened before 31 May 2025, however, the compensation you’re entitled to will be different. For a whiplash injury lasting three months, you could claim £240. For an injury lasting two years, you’ll be entitled to £4,215.
Other injuries will see different compensation amounts. For example, a minor head injury, possibly coming from a knock after a sudden stop, could see compensation ranging between £2,690 and £15,580. It’s hard to say how long it’ll be before the claim is resolved until one of our solicitors has carried out an initial investigation.
We've helped thousands of people claim compensation for injuries that weren't their fault. Just some of them include:
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