Mass Transit Accidents in Maryland
There are many people who are at the mercy of mass transit every day in order to get to where they need to be throughout Maryland. In the Baltimore area, the MARC train and the BaltimoreLink serve individuals all day long through buses and trains. Although, like any other vehicle, it is possible for mass transit accidents to occur. It is the Maryland Transit Administration’s duty to meet certain regulations and provide a level of care that ensures the safety of all transit users. Mass transit vehicles and waiting areas must be inspected very closely so that they cannot cause harm and seriously injure people. If a transit administration is negligent in providing a safe environment, they may be held liable for injuries.
Causes of Injuries
Mass transit vehicles are vulnerable to accidents just like another. Accents may occur not just on the train or bus, but on their waiting platforms as well. These accidents can happen due to numerous different factors. This may include:
- Derailments
- Faulty equipment
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Drowsy driving
- Driver/technician negligence
- Poorly maintained waiting areas
- Slip and falls
- Product malfunction
It is possible for accidents to happen under any of these circumstances. If mass transit drivers do not handle vehicles responsibly, they can put their riders in danger. In addition to this, routine inspections of vehicles must occur so that machine failures do not cause accidents.
Negligence
Government entities have the responsibility of maintaining safe transportation services for their communities. If an accident is a case of premises or product liability, the municipality may be held responsible for their lack of care. Drivers can also be held responsible if they do not operate the vehicle responsibly. If they are negligent in providing that standard of care for the community, they may be held responsible. In order to hold another party liable for negligence, the injured must provide proof that the accident and their injuries were a direct result of another party’s negligence.
Filing a Claim
If an individual wishes to take action against the municipality for their injury, they must file a Notice of Claim. This states their intention to take legal action against the Maryland Transportation Administration. The notice then gives the MTA an opportunity to answer the claim. In Maryland, a personal injury claim against a municipality has a limitation of 1 year to file a notice.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
If you have been injured in an accident and wish to speak with an attorney about your best course of action, contact the Albers & Associates today.
Albers & Associates is comprised of experienced personal injury, criminal defense, and family law attorneys. Our firm is proud to serve clients in Baltimore, Maryland. If you require strong legal representation that will fight to protect your future, contact the attorneys at Albers & Associates to schedule a consultation.