Mass transit systems such as subways, trains, buses, light rail vehicles, and other carriers offer an affordable means of transportation that allow many people to get to their work with little hassle. However, when accidents occur that involve such vehicles, the results are often devastating and injuries are suffered by many. While such accidents occur much more rarely than car crashes or other vehicle accidents, it is important to be aware of the dangers present in both major and minor mass transit accidents.
Like many vehicle collisions, the injuries suffered are relative to the severity of the crash, and commonly suffered trauma includes broken bones, head injuries, and other blunt force trauma. However, each type of mass transit system has its own unique dangers in the event of a crash.
- Buses: Many buses do not have seatbelts for passengers, meaning that in the event of a Northern California bus crash, they may be thrown from their seats, resulting in injuries that would not occur when using a seatbelt.
- Trains/Subways: These carrier vehicles often travel at a very high speed, meaning that any collisions, derailments, or sudden stops may be even more serious. Passengers can be thrown across the vehicle, and the amount of people and hazards within the train cars can cause injuries if a passenger slams against them.
- Light Rail: These vehicles, such as trolleys or trams, run along streets with other vehicles such as cars, meaning that a collision is more likely to occur. Vehicles can derail, lose control, and hit other vehicles at high speeds. Additionally, if they are open on the sides, passengers are at a greater likelihood to be ejected from the vehicle upon impact.
While mass transit accidents are less common than many other crashes, these collisions can cause life-altering injuries to victims. To hold at-fault parties, such as vehicle operators, other drivers, and transit companies responsible, victims should find an experienced lawyer. The San Jose mass transit accident attorneys at Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys can assist you in your search for compensation. Call us for more information today at (800) 900-0863.