Public Transport Accident Claims - Complete Guide
Motor Accidents
29 April 2026
min read
If you use public transport to travel, whether that is by bus, train or light rail, it is not always without risk and unfortunately sometimes people will sustain injury whilst catching public transport.
If you have sustained an injury on a bus, train or light rail you may be able to make a claim for compensation.
What are Public Transport Claims?
There are generally two types of public transport claims.
The first type is where your injuries were caused by the public transit vehicles such as bus or light rail colliding with you or the vehicle in which you are travelling. In this situation, this is a motor vehicle accident, and the Motor Accident Injuries Act NSW 2017 would apply. If this is the case, then you need to make an Application for Personal Injury Benefits through SIRA. You are entitled to payment of loss of income and medical expenses for up to 6 months. If you have serious injuries and you can demonstrate that the public transport operator was at fault, then you may also be able to make a claim for damages.
The second situation applies where you are injured whilst a passenger on a public transport vehicle, such a slipping on water on the floor of a bus or train. An injury not involving a collision of vehicles. Public Liability law would apply in this case, where the owner of the public transport vehicle, usually the government, has a duty of care to ensure that they do not negligently injury someone and are liable to pay damages.
What kind of compensation can I expect from a public transport accident claim?
If you have sustained an injury, you are usually entitled to claim the following types of compensation.
- Pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Payment of past and future medical expenses.
- Payment of past and future loss of income, including loss of superannuation.
The amount and type of compensation you are entitled to receive will depend on how serious your injury is and whether you have required time off work.
Claims of this type can be complicated and you should contact an accredited specialist in personal injury law to discuss your claim or complete a free case assessment here.
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I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference. Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze. When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.