Mass transit is used by millions of people all over the world in order to get to where they need to be. In Baltimore, many people use the Commuter Buses, the MARC trains, and the BaltimoreLink systems every day. Unfortunately, sometimes these transportations are not properly operated or maintained, causing accidents to many throughout the city. The Maryland Transit Administration’s is required to meet certain standards in order to provide a safe environment for all transit users. When this standard is not met, accidents can happen and people can become seriously injured. If you have been injured as the result of a mass transit accident, it is important to enlist the help of an experienced attorney.
Causes of Injuries
Like all vehicles, mass transit accidents happen too. Accidents can happen while on trains and buses as well as in their waiting areas. 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
If mass transit drivers are not responsible in handling a vehicle, they can put passengers in grave danger. Routine inspections of vehicles must also occur so that machine failures do not cause accidents.
Negligence
Municipalities are responsible for keeping their transportation services safe for commuters. If an accident occurs due to premises or product liability, they may be held responsible for their inability to do so. Drivers can also be held responsible if they operate a vehicle irresponsibly. If they are negligent in meeting a standard of care for Maryland, they may be held liable. In order to hold another party liable for negligence, the injured party must satisfy the burden of proof. This requires them to prove that the accident and their injuries happened as a result of that party’s negligence. Pictures of the scene and any witnesses may serve as evidence for a case.
Filing a Claim
When an individual wishes to hold a municipality responsible for their injury, they must file a Notice of Claim. This claim states their objective to pursue legal action against the Maryland Transportation Administration. When this claim is filed, the local government may investigate your case to see if the municipality is, in fact, responsible for your injuries. In Maryland, a claim against a municipality must be filed within 1 year of the incident.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured in a mass transit accident and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Offices of Timian & Fawcett, LLC. today.
If you are in this situation, it is important to discuss this situation with an attorney. The attorneys at Timian & Fawcett, LLC provide effective legal services to clients in Prince George’s County, Washington, D.C. and all of Maryland. Our firm is dedicated to our clients. If you need our help, we are ready to serve. Contact Timian & Fawcett, LLC.
