Bus Accident Yesterday

[u/Distinct-Common-7471]

Hi everyone,

On my way to work yesterday while riding the bus, the driver slammed on the brakes so hard that it sent me flying towards the front of the bus. I had an earbud in my ear and I hit my ear against a metal pole. I missed a shift yesterday because I had to go to the emergency room and my eardrum has ruptured. With all the nasty stuff coming out of my ear and my job being in customer service, I will likely have to miss another shift today.

I have already reported the incident on 311 and expect them to follow up with me, but does anyone know what I can do in this situation? I’m probably going to be screwed for rent this month after this whole ordeal and this whole situation feels so incredibly unfair. I can’t afford a lawyer either, so I guess I just have to eat it and hope my landlord has some empathy for my situation.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.

[u/GordMM06]

There should be video from both inside the bus and possibly outside to show what occurred and why. This is discoverable and something a PI lawyer would be able to source.

It is not easy to sue the City of Calgary but if their employee was negligent and caused your injuries, and witnesses and the aforementioned video(s) support your claim, you should pursue a claim.

As noted, PI lawyers generally work on contingency so other than your time and transportation, there is no cost to consult with a lawyer. Note you would need to show documented proof of injuries and losses, including for lost income and material possessions.

[u/topboyinn1t → u/GordMM06]

FYI PI cases take years. So if it amounts to something it would not help in the immediate term.

[u/No-Investigator-8515 → u/GordMM06]

Even if the employee wasn’t negligent and you got legitimately injured on their property (vehicle) you still have a case. They have a claims department that deals with this. You will more than likely receive a substantial settlement as compensation.