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Public Transportation Accident Lawyer

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$1.5 Billion in
Verdicts &
Settlements

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4.9 rating of 147 reviews
michelle stump avatar

michelle stump

12 days ago

Working with Ed and Amber has been a true pleasure. They handled my claim efficiently and professionally, ensuring the process moved smoothly from start to finish. Their responsiveness, expertise, and effectiveness in working with the insurance carrier contributed greatly to a successful resolution. I sincerely appreciate their efforts, dedication, and guidance throughout the matter, and I am grateful for the outstanding service they provided.

Johanna Bukowski avatar

Johanna Bukowski

1 month ago

Ed and Maggie have both been a pleasure to work with! They keep you up to date on your case, clearly explain the process and next steps along the way, respond quickly to any questions and always offer different options to discuss details (email, phone, text, Zoom, etc.). What I appreciate more than anything, is their genuine compassion and concern for you as a person. They both demonstrate true empathy for what is most likely one of the most unexpected and traumatic events in a person’s life and do everything they can to ensure justice is served. I highly recommend Collins Law!

Jeff Matticks avatar

Jeff Matticks

2 months ago

I became aware of Collins Law Group after I was involved in a motorcycle, several years ago. Since that time I have reached out to Ed Manzke, at Collins Law Group, for assistance in a couple of other areas. In each instance, I have found Ed and his team to be very helpful with great communication, keeping me informed every step along the way. Everyone who I have interacted with, at Collins Law Group, demonstrated that they are interested in building relationships so that you know who you can turn to for any of your legal needs.

Ella Folson avatar

Ella Folson

3 months ago

Chris and John were attentive and thorough to my needs throughout my entire case. I appreciate the all the time and effort they took. I will be recommending their services going forward to family and friends! Thank you so much for all your help!

J. Savv avatar

J. Savv

3 months ago

Ed Manzke was very patient and kind with helping me and my sister with our mom’s case. He often took the time out his day to explain everything to ensure we understood what was going on. The law firm itself is organized making our whole process run smoothly. I appreciate Ed and his team.

Unique Morris avatar

Unique Morris

3 months ago

Ed Manzke was very informative, clear and honest when it came to my mother and father’s case. He took his time with all of my questions and concerns, making sure that no questions went unanswered and that there was no room for confusion with our case. I’m forever grateful for Ed and everyone at the law firm.

Nick Erlenbaugh avatar

Nick Erlenbaugh

3 months ago

Collins Law was recommended to me after I was involved in an accident with a semi-truck. Amber Blevins was exceptional to work with. She is a total pro at what she does and made the process as easy as she could for me. Ed ensured I received the best outcome possible and exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone who might be shopping around for an attorney!

Dwayne Kurfirst avatar

Dwayne Kurfirst

3 months ago

I want to take a moment to recognize John at Collins Law for the incredible work he did in helping my mom secure her settlement. It wasn’t a quick or easy process—it took time, patience, and persistence—but John stayed committed every step of the way. What stood out most was his professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care for getting the best possible outcome. He kept us informed, navigated the complexities with confidence, and ultimately delivered results that truly made a difference for our family. If you’re looking for someone who will put in the work, stand by you through a long process, and follow through, I highly recommend John and the team at Collins Law.

Helen Montague avatar

Helen Montague

5 months ago

We are fortunate to have had the chance to work with John Risvold as he represented my brother in his case. Professional, personable and authentic in his manner, John kept us informed throughout the long process, and was always available to respond to my many questions. Having never been involved with a law suit, I really appreciated John's patience (especially since I am 1,000 miles away) and his genuine care for my brother's well being. We are forever grateful, John. Thank you.

Matthew Malone avatar

Matthew Malone

6 months ago

I had an excellent experience being represented by Collins Law Firm. Ed Manzke and Amber Blevins were amazing to work with and truly helped me in my time of need. Both were extremely personable and knowledgeable throughout every step of the way. I would absolutely recommend them for anyone’s legal needs.

Ronnie Sanchez avatar

Ronnie Sanchez

6 months ago

I had an excellent experience with The Collins Law firm. Amber was extremely helpful, kind, and friendly throughout the entire process. She took the time to explain everything clearly whenever I didn’t understand something, which meant a lot to me. I truly felt supported and informed. I will absolutely seek Collin’s help again if I ever need legal assistance in the future. Thank you again :)

Maddie Scheele avatar

Maddie Scheele

6 months ago

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Ed Manzke and Amber Blevins. They are truly the best of the best. The efficiency and professionalism throughout the entire process of my case has been unmatched. What I really want to point out, though, is the empathy and compassion both Amber and Ed hold. That was the true difference maker. I knew they both prioritized my well-being and made that their number one priority. They represented me to their highest capabilities through every step of my case, and I cannot thank them and Collins Law Firm enough.

Leticia Pink avatar

Leticia Pink

7 months ago

Ms. Maggie Galka is an experienced environmental (radon) attorney who prioritizes her clients' health and safety in her legal practice. She maintains thorough records and offers strategic advice while working with government agencies. Ms. Galka demonstrates key values such as integrity, expertise, respect, empathy, and compassion essential for positive outcomes. Her professionalism, follow-up and communication skills are excellent. Ms. Galka's guidance extends beyond legal issues, and the Collins Law Firm advocates strongly and effectively for clients. We sincerely thank Collins Law Firm, and in particular Ms. Galka, for helping our family reach a successful outcome and for their meaningful impact on our community. I strongly recommend Ms. Galka and Collins Law Firm as an outstanding legal firm.

Megan avatar

Megan

7 months ago

I can’t say enough good things about John Risvold at The Collins Law Firm. From start to finish, John was professional, responsive, and incredibly knowledgeable. He took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and always made me feel like my case truly mattered. His dedication, attention to detail, and genuine care made a stressful situation much easier to handle. John’s expertise and clear communication built a lot of trust, and I’m very grateful for his hard work. I would highly recommend John Risvold to anyone looking for a reliable and skilled attorney.

David Bretti avatar

David Bretti

7 months ago

(Translated by Google) They are very responsible in what they do, they were able to resolve my case quickly and efficiently, I especially recommend Mr. Chris for always being in contact and being honest throughout the process 👏🏻 (Original) Son muy responsables en lo que hacen, pudieron resolver mi caso de forma rápida y eficaz, recomendando, especialmente el Se Chris por siempre estar en contacto y ser sincero en todo el proceso 👏🏻

Jas R. avatar

Jas R.

7 months ago

Amber was very thorough, informative, and made this process very easy for me, which I greatly appreciated considering all the events that led up to this point. Justice isn’t always served, but working with Collin’s Law Firm really me feel that my injuries were tangibly worth something, and that to some degree, justice was served. Would highly recommend this law firm to anyone seeking out a personal injury firm/attorney.

Amy Ressen avatar

Amy Ressen

8 months ago

I wana say a huge thank you to the Collin’s Law firm and Chris Gauthier for helping me with my Complicated case. They helped me put my life back together after a horrible incident that I didn’t think I could over come. Chris was always good about communicating and he made sure I got what I deserved! I highly recommend this law firm they were so kind and reassuring that things would work out. Thank you again for all the hard work and being there to help me through the process when I didn’t know where to turn to for help! Thanks again Chris and The Collin’s Law firm!

Lauren Dryanski avatar

Lauren Dryanski

9 months ago

I had an exceptional experience with Collins Law Firm . A special thank you to Chris, my lawyer, and Patti, the legal assistant. They helped me navigate my car accident proceedings from start to finish, and I always felt like I was in great hands. Chris was incredibly knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and explained everything in a way I could understand. He always made sure I felt informed and supported, especially when it came to legal details I wouldn’t normally know. Patti was also wonderful—very helpful, communicative, and always made sure I had everything I needed throughout the process. I never once doubted this team. They made everything easy and stress-free. I would absolutely recommend Collins Law Firm to anyone in need of legal support!

Will Brooks avatar

Will Brooks

10 months ago

John brings impressive expertise and heartfelt dedication to every matter he handles. His thoughtful approach and clear communication make it easy to trust his advice, and it’s evident he is committed to fighting for what’s right with both professionalism and empathy. John’s balance of insightful expertise and warm, personal attention truly sets him apart.

Icela Hernandez avatar

Icela Hernandez

11 months ago

If ever needed. I will gladly go to the Collins law firm again. They were always quick to respond any questions. Happy to say case is closed and all went well .

Millions of people depend on public transportation every day. With approximately 953,787 rides daily, the Chicago Transit Authority stands as the second-largest public transportation system in the United States. Most days, everything runs smoothly. But when something goes wrong, the consequences can be devastating.

If you've been injured on public transportation, you're probably feeling overwhelmed. Medical bills are piling up, you're missing work, and the transit authority is already trying to minimize what happened. That's where we come in. At Collins Law Group, we fight for people just like you, and we know how to win these cases.

Types of Public Transportation Accidents We Handle

Public transportation accidents happen more often than most people realize. Every year, thousands of passengers suffer injuries on buses, trains, and other transit vehicles. These aren't just minor bumps and bruises. We're talking about serious, life-changing injuries that happen when transit operators fail to keep passengers safe.

Bus accident cases

When a 40,000-pound bus crashes, the results are catastrophic. People standing in the aisle have nothing to protect them. Even a sudden stop can send someone flying into a pole or another passenger.

These accidents are often caused by:

  • Aggressive driving: Bus drivers racing to stay on schedule, weaving through traffic, or taking turns too fast
  • Sudden stops and starts: Slamming on the brakes without warning, or accelerating before passengers are seated
  • Distracted driving: Drivers texting, adjusting mirrors, or dealing with unruly passengers instead of watching the road
  • Poor maintenance: Worn brakes that fail or engines that suddenly stall in traffic
  • Boarding and exiting: Drivers could pull away while someone's still stepping on or off

Train and rail accidents

Train accidents might not happen as often as bus crashes, but when they do occur, the injuries tend to be even more severe. A derailing Metra train can throw passengers from their seats with tremendous force.

The types of rail accidents we handle include:

  • Trains jumping the tracks due to excessive speed, track defects, or equipment failure
  • Passengers slipping on wet surfaces, falling in gaps, or being pushed by crowds
  • People getting caught in closing doors, falling between train cars, or being dragged along platforms
  • Trains colliding because the warning systems didn't work properly
  • Trains striking vehicles or pedestrians at intersections due to malfunctioning gates

Common Injuries From Public Transit Accidents

A passenger injured and receiving medical care in the foreground, symbolizing the risks of public transit accidents.

The injuries we see in public transportation cases are often more severe than typical car accident injuries. Why? Because passengers usually aren't wearing seatbelts. Many are standing when accidents happen. There's nothing to cushion the impact when a bus crashes or a train stops suddenly.

The most common injuries our clients suffer include:

Why Public Transportation Injury Claims Are Different

Here's something most people don't know: suing a public transit agency is nothing like filing a claim after a regular car accident. The government has special protections in place that make these cases much more complicated.

Transit agencies also have the resources to hire teams of lawyers whose only job is fighting injury claims. If you don't follow their rules exactly, you could lose your right to compensation forever.

Government immunity and notice requirements

The law gives government agencies partial immunity from lawsuits. This means you can't simply file a lawsuit like you would against a private company. Instead, you must first file a formal notice of claim with the transit agency. This isn't just a letter saying you got hurt. It's a detailed legal document that must include specific information about your accident, injuries, and damages.

You often have just 6 months to file this notice. If you miss the deadline by even one day, you may be barred from filing a claim. No exceptions. The notice requirements are incredibly strict, and even small mistakes can destroy your claim. That's why having an experienced lawyer handle this process is so important.

Importantly, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is specifically excluded from certain government immunities. This means you may have a clearer legal path to sue the CTA than other public agencies, but you still must follow strict notice rules. One wrong step could end your claim before it begins.

Shorter filing deadlines

Most personal injury cases give you 2 years to file a lawsuit, but not public transportation cases. Some have 1-year deadlines. Others may be granted even less time. These shortened deadlines exist because the government wrote the rules to protect itself, not injured passengers.

While you're focused on recovering from your injuries, attending doctor appointments, and trying to get back to work, the clock is ticking on your legal rights. By the time many people realize they need a lawyer, it's already too late. Don't let this happen to you.

How We Build Your Case

At Collins Law, we have secured over $904 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients. That kind of success doesn't happen by accident. It comes from thorough preparation, aggressive representation, and the resources to take on anyone, including government agencies with deep pockets.

The moment you hire us, we start building your case. Our investigation process leverages our firm's extensive resources to:

  • Preserve crucial evidence
  • Track down witnesses
  • Uncover patterns
  • Analyze technical data
  • Build an airtight case

Compensation for Public Transportation Injuries

You've suffered enough. Between the physical pain and financial stress, a public transportation accident can derail your entire life. That's why we fight for every dollar you deserve, not just for your current bills, but for everything this accident has cost you.

Every case is unique, but public transportation accidents often result in substantial settlements or verdicts.

Types of compensation available include:

  • Medical costs
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Future expenses
  • Property damage

Maximizing Your Recovery

Insurance companies representing transit agencies have one goal: paying you as little as possible. Insurers may make quick settlement offers, hoping you don't know what your case is worth. They are likely to pressure you to accept pennies on the dollar before you even know the full extent of your injuries.

We don't let that happen. We know the tricks insurers use and how to counter them. If they won't offer fair compensation, we're ready to take your case to trial. Transit agencies know our reputation, and they know we mean business.

Get the Legal Help You Need Today

Public transportation accidents can change your life in an instant. The physical pain is bad enough. But the financial stress and uncertainty about your future can be just as overwhelming.

You don't have to face this alone. Collins Law Group has the experience, resources, and determination to take on the CTA, Metra, or any other transit authority.

We have secured over $904 million for our clients because we refuse to back down. We refuse to let insurance companies take advantage of injured people. And we refuse to accept anything less than full compensation for what you've been through.

Contact Collins Law Group today. Whether you were hurt on a CTA bus, injured in a Metra train accident, or suffered any other public transportation injury, we're here to help. You don't pay a dime unless we win your case. That's our promise to you.

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Why Choose Collins Law
Environmental & Personal 
Injury Lawyers

No Fee Unless We Win

Collins Law operates on a contingency fee basis for personal injury and environmental cases, meaning clients only pay legal fees if we win your case.

175+ Years of Combined Experience

Our attorneys have years of experience representing clients with personal injury, environmental contamination, and business claims. Understanding the intricacies of these cases allows us to achieve better outcomes.

Proven Track Record

With a history of successful cases, Collins Law proves their ability to get results for their clients.

Flexible Consultations

Understanding the challenges clients may face following an injury, Collins Law offers flexible consultation options, including home and hospital visits. We will come to you.

Client-Centered Approach

At Collins Law, clients always come first. We prioritize individual needs and concerns, recognizing that each case is unique and deserves personalized attention.

Free Consultation - Available 24/7

Collins Law offers free consultations anytime, making legal advice accessible when it's needed.
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