Mass transit can be a great tool for commuters. Because of this, many individuals depend on mass transit to help them get from place to place. However, when an accident happens on a train or a bus, the results can be detrimental. Accidents involving trains and buses can cause lengthy, complicated courtroom battles. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a mass transit accident, it is important to have an experienced legal team on your side to represent your interests. The mass transit accident attorneys at Friedman Schuman are on your side. Do not wait to give us a call today to get started.
How do train and bus accidents occur in Pennsylvania?
There are a number of different ways that train and bus accidents can occur. Depending on the harshness of the situation, mass transit accidents can cause serious injuries and, in worst-case scenarios, fatalities. Mass transit accidents can happen for several different reasons. If a train accident occurs, it may be because of:
- Driver negligence
- Speeding
- Sudden stops
- Derailment
- Faulty tracks
- Collision
Bus accidents can also end in serious injuries. Unfortunately, buses may offer less protection than trains since they share the road with other drivers who can be unpredictable and dangerous. Furthermore, buses do not always need passengers to sit, offering passengers standing room when all of the seats are taken. Because of this, those standing passengers may be put at a greater risk. Bus accidents may be caused by the following:
- Driver negligence
- Improper maintenance
- Other drivers on the road
- Poor weather conditions
What steps should I take if I was injured in an accident?
No one expects to have their morning commute interrupted by a mass transit accident. However, if it does happen, it is a good idea to understand what to expect. In Pennsylvania, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, or SEPTA, serves much of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s mass transit needs. If there is an accident, a SEPTA representative will arrive at the scene to hand out claim forms to passengers. These forms may also be found online. SEPTA claim forms will require injured passengers to provide information including:
- Date of incident
- Time of incident
- Location of incident
- Route or property where the incident occurred
- Destination
- Whether you were injured on a bus/train or a property
Mass transit accidents can have serious negative effects on those involved. Because of this, it is important to reach out to an experienced attorney after being injured in a mass transit accident. Attempting to negotiate with the company themselves may be more difficult without competent legal representation on your side.
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Friedman Schuman is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. Contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
