Can You Sue Calgary Transit for Negligence?
Every day, thousands of Calgarians rely on city buses and LRT trains to get to work, school, and home safely. But when an accident or injury happens on Calgary Transit, many passengers are left wondering — can you sue the city for negligence?
The short answer is yes, but suing Calgary Transit isn't the same as filing a regular car-accident claim. Because it's a municipal service, unique legal rules, deadlines, and defences apply.
As Alberta personal-injury lawyers experienced in transit and municipal liability, we explain when Calgary Transit can be held responsible for injuries, what evidence you need to prove negligence, and how to protect your right to compensation.
This guide covers:
Common Causes of Calgary Transit Injuries
Transit injuries can happen in several ways — both inside and outside the vehicle. Common causes include:
Common Causes:
When Calgary Transit Can Be Held Liable
Calgary Transit has a duty of care to operate buses, trains, and stations safely. When that duty is breached and someone gets hurt, the city can be held legally responsible for negligence.
Negligent Bus Driver
A negligent bus driver (speeding, distraction, or unsafe stop).
Sudden or Violent Movement
A sudden or violent movement that throws passengers off balance.
Poorly Maintained Equipment
Poorly maintained buses or LRT stations.
Unsafe Surfaces
Icy or uneven surfaces at stops or platforms.
Failure to Assist
Failure to assist disabled or elderly passengers.
Mechanical Defects
Mechanical defects or maintenance neglect.
While Calgary Transit doesn't guarantee absolute safety, it must take reasonable steps to protect passengers and the public.
The 21-Day Notice Requirement
When suing a municipality (e.g., City of Calgary), strict legal procedures under Alberta's Municipal Government Act must be followed.
Written Notice Required
Injured passengers must provide written notice to the city within 21 days of the incident.
Required Information
The notice must include: the date, time, and location of the accident; and a brief description of what happened and your injuries.
Consequences of Missing Deadline
The claim could be dismissed unless there is a "reasonable excuse" (e.g., hospitalization) and the city is not prejudiced.
Legal Assistance
A lawyer can file this notice on behalf of the claimant to ensure compliance and preserve the claim.
Evidence Needed to Prove Negligence
Because Calgary Transit is a public authority, its legal department defends every claim aggressively. Success depends on gathering clear, objective evidence. A lawyer can help secure:
Surveillance Footage
Bus or LRT surveillance footage before it's deleted.
Operator Logs and Reports
Operator logs and incident reports.
Maintenance Records
Maintenance and inspection records.
Witness Statements
Witness statements from other passengers.
Medical Records
Medical records detailing your injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
You can sue Calgary Transit for negligence if you can prove unsafe driving, poor maintenance, or other failures caused your injury. However, these cases follow strict municipal rules — especially the 21-day notice requirement — and require prompt evidence collection.
Get medical attention right away.
Report the incident and take photos.
File written notice within 21 days.
Contact an Alberta lawyer experienced in municipal liability.
Still have questions? Contact us today — your consultation is free.
Contact us today for a free consultation. No fee unless we win.