Chicago Wheelchair Transportation Injury Lawyers

Compensation for Chicago Victims With Wheelchair Transportation Injuries

For individuals who rely on wheelchair transportation to attend doctors’ appointments, therapy, or other essential trips, safety is paramount. But when transport drivers fail to follow proper protocols, the consequences of wheelchair transportation injuries can be devastating.

If you or a loved one in a wheelchair was injured as a passenger due to an accident involving a medical transport company, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced lawyers can help you understand your legal rights, build a strong case, and fight to recover compensation for your losses.   

Understanding Wheelchair Transportation and Medical Transport Accident Risks in Chicago

Wheelchair transportation services exist to assist disabled individuals who are unable to use public transportation or travel in a traditional vehicle safely. 

These bus or car services are often operated by private companies specializing in medical equipment, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. Medical transportation like this involves properly securing the wheelchair, operating lift equipment, and providing reasonable care throughout the ride. 

Unfortunately, not all transportation drivers receive adequate training, and wheelchair safety standards for passengers can vary widely among providers.

In Chicago, where wheelchair transport vehicles must navigate highways like I-90 and the Stevenson Expressway, even a minor error can have catastrophic consequences for a wheelchair-bound passenger. 

Accidents like sudden stops, bus collisions, equipment failures, and negligent loading practices can all result in serious injuries, and, in some cases, wrongful death for disabled riders.

Common Causes of Wheelchair Transportation Injuries in a Medical Transit Accident          

Our lawyers have represented countless wheelchair injury victims who suffered harm due to avoidable accidents involving medical equipment. 

Many cases involve improperly locked or unsecured wheelchairs, which can cause passengers to tip or fall during movement. Others involve defective or poorly maintained lift systems, which may fail during loading or unloading and lead to falls or crushing accidents.

Often, these failures are tied to inadequate staff training. When bus drivers or aides aren’t taught how to use wheelchair restraints or operate lift equipment properly, passengers pay the price. Speeding, reckless driving, and abrupt braking also contribute to collisions and secondary trauma, particularly for those with fragile health or mobility issues.

In other situations, the transport company itself may be liable for failing to supervise staff, inspect equipment, or implement clear safety protocols. This type of corporate carelessness can lead to repeated harm and multiple incidents over time, showcasing clear liability.

Types of Personal Injury From Wheelchair Transportation Negligence

Injured persons involved in these transportation accidents often experience life-altering consequences. Spinal cord injuries may result from violent jolts or falls, potentially leading to paralysis. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are another risk, especially when patients fall from elevated lifts or are thrown due to sudden stops.

Fractures, such as broken hips or limbs, are also common personal injury examples, particularly among older victims. Many clients also suffer lacerations, abrasions, and bruising that can become infected or require stitches. Tragically, some passengers do not survive wheelchair accidents, especially when severe injuries compound existing medical issues.    

Legal Rights of Wheelchair Users in a Medical Transit Accident

Wheelchair users have rights under both federal and state law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires transportation providers to ensure their vehicles and procedures are safe and accessible. The ADA also covers the use of securement systems, functioning lifts, and well-trained staff.

Medical equipment providers often qualify as common carriers, which means they are held to a higher standard of care. When a provider fails to meet this standard and a passenger with disabilities is hurt, the provider can be held legally liable through a personal injury claim. 

Our attorneys help patients and their families navigate the complexities of these laws, holding negligent parties accountable and pursuing every available avenue for recovery.

Proving Negligence in a Wheelchair Transportation Injury Case

To win a personal injury lawsuit, you need to prove that negligence caused your wheelchair accident. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we conduct a comprehensive investigation. We collect photographs from the scene, request internal documents from the transport company, and obtain surveillance footage when available.

Our team reviews medical expenses and treatment records to illustrate the extent of harm. We also work with transportation safety experts to assess whether equipment was working correctly and if the driver followed standard safety procedures, such as properly securing equipment.   

Using these elements, our attorneys build a compelling case designed to maximize your chances of winning a personal injury lawsuit.

What to Do After a Medical Transport Accident Involving a Wheelchair

If you or a loved one has been injured in a wheelchair accident, begin by seeking immediate medical attention. Early treatment not only improves outcomes but also creates documentation that supports your case.

You should also document the incident thoroughly to prove liability. Take photographs of the vehicle, the lift or restraint systems, and any visible trauma. Report the event to the transport company and request a copy of their internal report. If witnesses were involved, get their contact information and statements if possible.      

Finally, speak to our experienced wheelchair transportation injury lawyers. Our attorneys will protect your rights, communicate with the insurance companies, and ensure you’re not exploited during a vulnerable time.

How Our Wheelchair Transportation Injury Lawyers Can Help You

Our firm is dedicated to representing victims in wheelchair-related transport cases. We understand how fragile health, limited mobility, and systemic negligence can combine to produce devastating outcomes. That’s why we offer legal support tailored to each client’s needs, backed by a top Justia Lawyer Rating. 

Our legal team will investigate your claim, determine who is responsible, and seek fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering. Whether you’re filing an injury claim or pursuing a wrongful death action on behalf of a loved one, our attorneys are prepared to fight for you in and out of court.

With a strong track record of results, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is committed to helping our clients move forward.

Free Consultation With Our Wheelchair Transportation Injury Lawyers

If you’ve been hurt in a transport incident involving a wheelchair, contact our Chicago personal injury attorneys for a free consultation. We never charge an upfront fee, which means you don’t pay unless we win. 
Reach out today to schedule your consultation and learn how our experienced attorneys can help you get justice and the compensation you deserve, ensuring the appropriate party or person is held accountable.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.