CARTA Accident Attorney in Chattanooga, TN

Fighting for Victims & Families

CARTA provides public transportation services throughout Chattanooga, including buses, paratransit for individuals with disabilities, and the popular downtown electric shuttle. Unfortunately, accidents can happen even with experienced drivers and robust safety protocols. When they do, victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and losses. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA), The Hamilton Firm LLC is here to help. 

Comprised of award-winning trial lawyers and backed by nearly a century of collective experience, we have experience representing victims injured as a result of CARTA negligence, including those who were harmed due to failures to properly secure disabled individuals. Now, we’re available to discuss how we can help you.

Our Chattanooga CARTA accident lawyers offer FREE and confidential consultations. Call (423) 454-3288 or contact us online to request yours.

Understanding CARTA Accidents

CARTA buses and paratransit vehicles are a convenient and cost-effective way for residents and visitors to travel throughout Chattanooga. However, car accidents involving public transit can occur for numerous reasons, such as:

• Driver Negligence – Speeding, distracted driving, or failing to observe traffic signals.
• Improperly Secured Passengers – Especially for disabled riders or those using wheelchairs who may need additional restraint or support.
• Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance – Worn brakes, tires, or mechanical failures that can lead to crashes.
• Hazardous Road Conditions – Weather-related hazards, poorly maintained roads, or construction zones.

When a CARTA accident occurs, passengers, other motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians may suffer significant injuries that require costly medical treatment and extensive recovery.

Determining Fault and Liability

Accidents involving public transit systems can be more complex than typical car accidents because CARTA is a government entity. In most motor vehicle accident cases, fault is established by showing negligence—i.e., that a party failed to exercise reasonable care. In a CARTA accident, there can be multiple parties who may bear responsibility:

• The CARTA Driver. The driver may be at fault if they fail to follow traffic laws, drive while distracted or fatigued, or neglect to adhere to proper safety protocols for disabled or elderly passengers. Determining negligence could involve reviewing traffic footage, interviewing witnesses, and examining the driver’s record and conduct at the time of the crash. 
• CARTA or the Government Entity. In addition to bearing financial responsibility for losses caused by negligent employees, the organization may be liable if it engages in negligent hiring or training practices, fails to maintain vehicles in safe working condition, or neglects to implement appropriate safety measures for passengers. Proving this typically involves reviewing maintenance logs, safety protocols, and employment records to reveal any systemic issues.
• Third Parties. Other motorists, manufacturers of faulty bus parts, or maintenance companies responsible for repairs can also share liability. Their negligence might include reckless driving, production of defective equipment, or substandard vehicle maintenance. Liability in these cases often requires a detailed investigation to pinpoint exactly how each party’s negligence contributed to the accident.

Establishing who is at fault typically involves gathering police reports, video surveillance (often captured by onboard cameras), witness statements, vehicle maintenance records, and more. An experienced attorney can help investigate these factors to build a strong case on your behalf.

Recoverable Damages in a CARTA Accident

If you can prove that CARTA or another party’s negligence caused or contributed to the accident and your injuries, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:

• Medical Bills – Past, current, and future expenses related to emergency care, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication, and medical devices.
• Lost Wages – Compensation for work you have missed and any reduction in your earning capacity due to injuries.
• Pain and Suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, and other intangible damages associated with the accident.
• Loss of Consortium – If the accident negatively affects personal relationships, a spouse or family member may also be entitled to damages.

Each claim is unique, and the total amount of compensation will depend on the severity of your injuries, the degree of negligence involved, and other factors specific to your case.

Time Limits and Special Considerations for Public Entity Claims

In Tennessee, personal injury claims typically must be filed within one year from the date of the accident. However, because CARTA is a governmental entity, claims for injuries may be subject to the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TGTLA) and related statutes or regulations. These rules can impact your case in critical ways:

1. Notice of Claim Requirements. Some governmental bodies require that an injured party file a formal notice of claim within a specific timeframe (often much shorter than the one-year statute of limitations). Failure to do so can result in a barred claim.
2. Damage Caps. Government entities often have liability caps that limit how much compensation an injured party can recover, depending on the nature of the accident and the specific circumstances.
3. Procedural Differences. Lawsuits against governmental entities follow specific procedural guidelines that differ from conventional personal injury lawsuits.

Because these cases can be subject to stricter deadlines and other legal nuances, it is crucial to consult an attorney who has experience handling claims against public transportation systems like CARTA. Missing a crucial filing deadline or failing to follow proper notice procedures can jeopardize your right to compensation.

How The Hamilton Firm LLC Can Help

Our attorneys have extensive experience representing individuals injured by the negligence of public entities, including CARTA. We understand the complexities of governmental tort liability law and are well-equipped to handle the additional hurdles these cases present. Here’s what we can do for you:

• Thorough Investigation – We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to establish fault and determine the full scope of your damages.
• Navigating Paperwork and Deadlines – We handle the required notices, forms, and submissions with precision to ensure compliance with strict government filing deadlines.
• Aggressive Advocacy – Whether through negotiation or trial, our priority is to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
• Client-Focused Approach – We prioritize open communication and transparency, keeping you informed at every stage of the process.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or someone you love was injured in a CARTA accident, do not hesitate to reach out to The Hamilton Firm LLC. We understand the serious impact these accidents can have on your physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. Our legal team offers a free consultation to discuss your options and help you decide on the best course of action.

Call us at (423) 454-3288 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.