What Kinds Of Accidents Can Happen On Public Transport?

Public transport is a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel, but like any system, it comes with its own set of risks. While many journeys are completed without incident, understanding the types of accidents that can occur and how to reduce the risks can help you stay safe.

IMAGE: UNSPLASH

Slips, Trips And Falls

Unfortunately, slips, trips, and falls can happen on various types of public transport.

This can be due to uneven floors, wet platforms or sudden vehicle movements.

For instance, icy conditions in the winter can make surfaces slippery and increase the chances of falling.

Tips To Reduce The Risks

Always use handrails and hold onto poles when standing.
Avoid distractions, such as looking at your phone, when the vehicle is in motion.
Wear footwear with good grip.
Be cautious when getting on or off transport, especially in wet or icy weather conditions.

Sudden Stops And Sharp Turns

Emergency braking on buses and trains can cause you to lose your balance or be thrown from your seat.

Sudden movements, such as sharp turns or unexpected accelerations, can also contribute to a loss of stability, increasing the likelihood of accidents, especially for standing passengers.

Tips to reduce the risks:

Sit near the middle of the vehicle to experience less motion.
Hold onto nearby supports.
Stay alert and brace yourself when you anticipate sudden stops.

Accidents During Boarding And Alighting

Accidents can also occur during boarding or alighting, especially when doors close unexpectedly or when there’s a gap between the platform and train.

In 2024, The Independent reported that a 101-year-old woman at Archway station was dragged along the platform after her coat got caught in the train doors. The doors closed just six seconds after opening, and the driver wasn’t aware of the trapped coat.

Tips to reduce the risks:

Wait for buses and trains to come to a complete stop before getting on or off.
Make sure all personal belongings are clear of the doors before they shut.
Be aware of the gap between the train and the platform edge.

Accidents On Platforms And At Bus Stops

You may also be at risk of being clipped by a bus or train if you’re standing too close to the edge of the platform or bus stop.

In a case reported by the BBC last year, a man at London Blackfriars station was “clipped by a train” and “knocked to the ground” after standing too close to the platform edge when the train arrived.

Tips to reduce the risks:

Position yourself behind the yellow safety line on train platforms.
Wait for the vehicle to stop before approaching the doors.
Do not lean over the edge of the pavement when waiting for a bus.

What To Do If You Experience An Accident

If you’re involved in an accident while using public transport, it’s important to seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. You can also report the incident to the transport provider and gather contact details from any witnesses.

In some circumstances, you could be entitled to make a compensation claim for your passenger accident. For guidance, you may benefit from consulting with legal professionals who specialise in these types of claims. By staying informed and vigilant, you can reduce the risk of accidents and have safer journeys on public transport.