The leading provider of public transport for the greater Philadelphia region is the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transport Authority (SEPTA). However, other service providers offer various options to help you move from one part of the city to another. Millions of commuters use public transportation in the region, and unfortunately, accidents do happen. The cause of accidents is often attributed to negligent actions of the driver or the company that owns the vehicle.
Types of Public Transportation Accidents in Philadelphia
Types of transportation accidents common in the region include:
- SEPTA accidents
- Public transportation accidents by companies operating in the area
- Commuter train accidents
- Subway accidents
- Taxi cab accidents
- Railway accidents
- Commuter van and airport shuttle accidents
These accidents lead to destruction of property, bodily injuries, and at times, death. The law in Philadelphia requires that the owner of the vehicle and the driver provide a high degree of care to the passengers and other road users. Failure to do this can result in a lawsuit.
SEPTA Accidents
These are one of the most common accidents in the Commonwealth. Operators of SEPTA’s buses, trackless trolleys, trolleys, regional rail, and paratransit vehicles are subject to similar laws that govern other drivers on the road. In case of a SEPTA accident due to negligence, they will be held liable. One of the most common causes of SEPTA accidents is driver negligence. Other major causes include:
- A sudden stop by the bus or the train, which can lead to a “jerk and jolt” accident.
- Derailment of a SEPTA train.
- Collision with another vehicle.
- The bus strikes a curb.
- Driver fails to wait for all passengers to get on board before engaging the vehicle.
- Defective vehicle parts, such as faulty doors.
An accident might also occur due to failure of the company to maintain a safe condition in its bus stations, train stations, and other properties. It might also be due to distractions while driving, poor visibility, inadequate driving experience or training, reckless driving, or a mechanical fault.
The sheer size of SEPTA vehicles makes accidents involving these vehicles devastating to passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
When you are involved in a SEPTA accident, you need the services of a professional lawyer to try to prove liability of the negligent party so that you are compensated for your injuries and losses.
The Philadelphia Law Regarding Public Transportation
The law in Pennsylvania recognizes that driving a bus requires special skills and advanced driving abilities. It also requires special maneuvering techniques that often require special licensing from the relevant authorities.
The law considers buses, trolleys, and trains as “common carriers.” This means that the company and the driver owe the passenger, pedestrians, and other road users a heightened sense of care. Any negligence requires that the driver or the company be held responsible for all damages relating to the accident.
The Aftermath of a Public Transportation Accident
An accident involving a public transportation vehicle can lead to personal bodily injuries or damage to property. You might end up losing your source of income or property. It is vital that you work with a personal injury lawyer to get compensation from the negligent party. Call us today at 1-800-INJURYLAW, or fill out our online contact form, and we will get back to you immediately.