People who commute throughout New Jersey take advantage of its efficient mass transit network. While trains and buses are generally regarded as safe and reliable, this is not always the case. Sometimes, there are mass transit accidents, which, as you can imagine, are often very severe. If you have been involved in a mass transit accident, you are most likely looking into financial compensation, which can be used to cover medical bills, in-home care costs, lost wages, and more. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most common causes of bus accidents?
Bus accidents, while rarer than car accidents, are still more frequent than train accidents. Bus drivers have a tough job, as they must always stay alert, compensating for massive blind spots and a vehicle larger than almost all others on the road. While inclement weather conditions, poor road conditions or design, and even faulty bus parts may contribute to bus accidents, driver negligence is by far the most common cause. Some examples of bus driver negligence are as follows:
- Sudden stops and starts
- Failure to recognize the bus’ significant blind spots, causing unsafe lane changes
- Failure to comply with traffic lights and signs
- Ignoring other rules and regulations of the road
- Texting while driving
- Driving while drowsy
- Discharging passengers on unsafe or poorly maintained roadways
- Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Lack of fire extinguishers in the event of a fire
What are the most common types of train operator negligence?
When you take the train, you expect a streamlined, calm ride to your destination. Unfortunately, when train operators are negligent, accidents happen, and due to the high speed at which trains travel, the outcome is usually severe. Some examples of train operator negligence are as follows:
- Derailments
- Excessively speeding
- Improperly applying brakes
- Crew members receiving improper instructions
- Failing to secure or release hand brakes
- Improper alignment of railroad switches
- Failure to comply with orders
- Railroad employees operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Railroad employees falling asleep
How do I know if I am entitled to financial compensation?
To recover the compensation you deserve, you must first prove that you were injured due to another party’s negligence. With the help of an attorney, you should be able to do so. Additionally, when an individual is harmed by a public entity’s negligence, he or she must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. This notifies a municipality that a lawsuit is being brought against them. If you do not file a Notice of Claim, you may be denied your compensation, no matter how bad you need it.
Contact our New Jersey firm
Our firm understands how serious criminal and personal injury cases are. We are prepared to guide you towards a favorable outcome. If you require experienced legal counsel in New Jersey, please contact The Law Office of Andrew S. Maze today for any criminal and personal injury matters.