Individuals can use mass transit to commute to work or travel if they do not have another form of transportation. This can prove to be a convenient way for people to get around. It may also be less time-consuming than sitting in traffic that cars may lead to. However, it does not mean that accidents can’t occur. Mass transits accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons. These forms of transportation need to be monitored in order to ensure the safety of the public. There are requirements that these systems must meet and people who are in charge of making sure that these requirements are met. If vehicles are not inspected closely, they can lead to devastating consequences. Platforms must also be inspected to ensure the safety of all those that pass through them.
Operators can also be at fault for a mass transit accident just as drivers may be liable for a motor vehicle accident. An operator’s negligence can include speeding, using a device, fatigue or substance abuse, among many other causes. Not only have serious injuries been known to happen while riding on mass transit systems, they can also be caused in stations. Waiting areas and stations must be monitored to ensure safety for all those around. Negligence by employees can contribute to accidents in waiting areas at stations, on escalators or elevators. If you can prove that a hazard was unattended due to the negligence of an employee, then you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation can be economic for your lost wages, lost future wages and medical bills. It can also include noneconomic damages for your pain and suffering and emotional distress from the accident.
What can I recover from this accident?
After a mass transit accident has occurred, you may be able to seek compensation for the injuries that you sustained during the incident. You may be able to recover payment for medical bills that have piled up as a result of your injuries. Compensation may also be able to cover lost wages and lost future wages. Damages can also come in the form of emotional distress. This can make up for the pain and suffering that you have endured due to the accident. You should seek compensation before six months after the accident. Otherwise, you may not be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages. With this lawsuit, you may have to take action against a government entity for these mass transit accidents.
The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
