Whether you live in Connecticut or are simply visiting, there is a good chance you have used the CTtransit services. Many people take a bus or train to work, both of which are generally seen as safe, efficient, and environmentally-friendly. However, when you step on to the bus or train, your life is in the driver’s hands. If you find yourself in a situation where you are injured in a mass transit accident, there is a very good chance you will be able to recover the compensation you need. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most common causes of bus accidents?
Buses are everywhere, especially in the more urban areas of Connecticut. While buses usually travel slowly and safely, there are several potential safety hazards present every time you step aboard. The most common causes of bus accidents and injuries are:
- Bus fires
- Large blind spots
- Poor weather conditions
- Sudden stops and starts
- Improperly discharging passengers on unsafe or poorly maintained roadways
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
What are the most common causes of train accidents?
Though train accidents are less common than bus accidents, one can imagine they are just as severe, if not more so. Unfortunately, train accidents are most commonly caused by negligent behavior, usually seen in train employees or employers. Some examples of train driver negligence are:
- Falling asleep
- Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failing to secure or release hand brakes
- Improper alignment of railroad switches
- Derailments
- Improper directions
- Using brakes improperly
- Excessively speeding
- Reckless pedestrians and conductors
Train drivers have a huge responsibility, and if you are injured because a train employee neglected that responsibility, you should seek financial compensation. Here are some examples of train maintenance or neglect that are also known to cause train accidents:
- Worn down rails
- Broken welds
- Rusted tracks
- Broken or dysfunctional switches
- Cracks around bolt holes
How do I know if I am entitled to compensation following a mass transit accident?
If you were injured due to another party’s negligence, you should be able to recover financial compensation. This is why it is so important to hire an attorney who knows the ins and outs of the personal injury process. This compensation may be used to cover your medical bills, in-home care costs, lost wages, and more. You may also wish to recover noneconomic damages as well for your pain, humiliation, or emotional anguish. Do not wait. Contact a knowledgeable attorney today.
Contact our Connecticut firm
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. Contact the law firm to set up a free initial consultation for matters, related to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.