A harrowing incident on a public bus has led to a lawsuit that could have significant implications for public transportation safety. On June 20, 2024, Marlo Baker filed a complaint in the District Court of Harris County against John Doe and the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Metro).
According to the filing, Baker experienced a distressing event on January 17, 2024, while riding Metro's bus route #47. The bus driver, identified only as John Doe, allegedly failed to exercise necessary care when closing the back door of the bus. This oversight resulted in Baker's right foot being caught in the door, causing her severe pain and injuries. To compound matters, Doe reportedly drove off without checking on Baker’s condition after she was thrown onto the concrete sidewalk by the force of the closing door.
The complaint details how John Doe's actions demonstrated reckless disregard for passenger safety. It is noted that there were dozens of passengers on board at the time of the incident. "The operator knew there were dozens of passengers on board and yet failed to operate the bus in a safe and prudent manner," states Baker’s petition. The document further alleges that Metro’s employee acted negligently by not ensuring all safety equipment was accessible and functional, failing to maintain proper stops and starts for smooth operation, and neglecting to assist passengers with special needs during disembarkation.
Baker seeks damages amounting to less than $250,000 for medical expenses (both past and future), pain and suffering (both past and future), and loss of enjoyment of life. She argues that these damages are a direct result of Defendants' breach of duty. In addition to actual damages, Baker requests prejudgment and post-judgment interest as well as court costs.
The plaintiff is represented by Andrew J. Cobos and Nicholas Kacal from The Cobos Law Firm based in Houston, Texas. The case is presided over by Judge Christopher Matthews under Case ID 2024-39152.