On the afternoon of November 10, 2009 the Plaintiff was attempting to board a bus owned by the Defendant, WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority) near the 8800 block of Colesville Road in Silver Spring, Maryland. As the Metro Bus came to a stop, it opened its doors and passengers began to get on. As the Plaintiff was beginning to climb onto the Bus, the driver inexplicably closed the door and knocked the Plaintiff off of the first step and onto the ground.
The Plaintiff got back onto the Bus and finished her trip. Several days later, she reported to local clinic with neck and back pain, as well as headaches. Ultimately she was diagnosed with strains to her neck and back, as well as post traumatic headaches.
The Defendants denied the occurrence ever took place. At trial, WMATA presented the testimony of the bus driver who denied ever seeing the Plaintiff. Additionally, WMATA presented the court with documentation which showed that no claim was made for over 6 days following the accident.
After deliberation, the Montgomery County District Court found in favor of the Plaintiff and awarded her damages in the amount of $10,000.00.
- Defendant: WMATA
- Special damages: $5,200.00