Trolleys are a fun way to explore the city, and quite eco-friendly. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (SEPTA) has used these vehicles to transport people throughout the town on tracks electrically powered. Even though they travel at low speeds, trolleys can be involved in accidents. When you are riding a SEPTA trolley downtown, and you are injured, receiving compensation for your injuries becomes a complicated process.
Therefore, it is in your best interest to speak with an accident attorney that has experience with SEPTA trolley involved accidents.
What Leads to Trolley Accidents Typically?
Trolleys are a safe and convenient form of travel in the downtown area. They have designated routes, and they can help you avoid the city traffic. An accident, however, can lead to traumatic injuries, especially because riders of the trolley are not wearing safety harnesses.
Trolley Driver Fault
Trolleys have operators who must stay alert and focused while operating the trolley throughout the city. If they become distracted, they could lose control of the trolley and cause a serious injury. A leading cause of trolley accidents is an operator distraction.
Faulty Equipment on the Trolley Car
Trolleys require routine maintenance to keep them up to code. When a company ignores maintenance or repair needs, the trolley could malfunction and cause a serious accident. From the wheels to brakes and even electrical connections, these accidents could be catastrophic.
Faulty Tracks
Likewise, tracks for trolley cars must be maintained properly. Defective tracks can force a trolley to jump the tracks or be unable to stop, causing serious accidents.
Other Vehicles
Sometimes, SEPTA has nothing to do with the crash. Instead, they are a victim just like the passengers. A passenger vehicle not yielding to the trolley or cutting in front of one can obviously be the cause of collisions.
Common Injuries Seen in Trolley Accidents
Passengers on SEPTA trolleys are not wearing seatbelts. Trolleys are also open on the sides. Therefore, passengers are vulnerable due to lack of enclosure, or protective features such as airbags.
Some common injuries seen in trolley accidents include:
- Broken Bones – Broken bones are quite common, especially in the extremities. Riders have no airbags or sides to protect them; therefore, they can be crushed by components of the trolley and other debris.
- Lacerations – Cuts, scrapes, and deep lacerations are also standard in these accidents. Some victims suffer penetrating injuries that are life-threatening.
- Traumatic Brain Injury – When there are no airbags or other forms of protection, riders of a SEPTA trolley car are more likely to encounter a TBI (whether mild or severe).
- Burns – Trolleys use electricity, but when the power malfunctions, riders could suffer from electrical burns.
Injured in a SEPTA Accident? Contact an Attorney Immediately
Lawsuits against government entities, like SEPTA, are highly complex. Therefore, it is in your best interest to speak with an attorney and explore your options.
Attorney Jeffrey H. Penneys, Esq. can assist you with your case. He has years of experience handling accident claims, including SEPTA-related incidents. Schedule a consultation by calling him at 215-771-0430. You can also request a meeting online.