SEPTA truly makes Philadelphia’s public transit system unique. With their train, trolley and bus system, you can enjoy multiple routes throughout the city. SEPTA trolleys, trains and buses transport hundreds of people each day, and are typically safe. If they are involved in an accident, however, the injuries can be traumatic.
More often than not, these accidents involve other motor vehicles. However, there are also MANY accidents on SEPTA vehicles that do not involve other motor vehicles, such as when the driver causes injury to passengers by violently jerking and jolting the SEPTA vehicle. If you are involved in a SEPTA accident, you need to ensure that your legal rights are protected. The best way to do this is by retaining the services of an experienced SEPTA accident attorney.
Why Do SEPTA Bus Accidents Occur?
There are a variety of reasons why a SEPTA bus, train or trolley can be involved in an accident – and these accidents can lead to minor or life-threatening injuries. Some of the more common causes for these accidents include:
- Distracted drivers
- Poor weather
- Drowsy driving
- Mechanical failures
- Brake failures
- Tire failures
- Failure to obey traffic signals
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driver errors-such as closing the doors on passengers
If you are a victim of a SEPTA accident, the law does allow you to bring legal claims against the agency in order to receive compensation for your financial losses.
How SEPTA Claims Are Different
While you are allowed to seek compensation under the law, it is important to note that these claims are not the same as your average car or motorcycle accident claim. Instead, there are complex rules and issues that apply to SEPTA accident cases. These laws also vary, depending on the type of SEPTA vehicle. For example, a bus versus a trolley have very different procedures. Furthermore, there are oftentimes multiple vehicles involved in SEPTA accidents, various injured persons, and varying levels of responsibility assigned to those involved.
You can receive compensation for your financial losses, including:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
After an accident in or with a SEPTA trolley, bus or train, you need to preserve evidence, and gather as much information as possible about the incident. This can include items like:
- The vehicle’s number
- The name of the SEPTA driver
- Contact information of witnesses present at the scene
- Contact information of those involved in the accident
- Weather conditions at the time
- Taking photographs of the aftermath of the accident (if you can)
- A SEPTA Incident Card.
If you suspect that you are injured, you must seek medical attention right away. Failing to do so could harm your claim – especially if you wait too long.
Injured in a SEPTA Bus or Trolley Bus Accident? Contact an Attorney
If you were seriously injured on a SEPTA bus or trolley bus, you may be entitled to compensation. You will need to contact an attorney with experience in SEPTA accident claims. I’m attorney Jeffrey Harlan Penneys, Esquire, and I can help. I understand the complexities of these types of cases, but will not let the government intimidate you from filing your claim. To get started, schedule a free case evaluation with me by calling 215-771-0430 (cell), or fill-out my online contact form with your questions.