If you live in Maryland’s more urban areas, such as Baltimore, there is a very good chance you rely on mass transit to get you from place to place. Fortunately, for the most part, busses and trains are a reliable means of transportation. However, there are certain cases where individuals are negligent, and accidents often happen as a result. If you were injured due to another party’s negligence, you will most likely qualify for financial compensation. However, you must first read on and reach out to our experienced Maryland mass transit accident attorneys to learn more about how we can help you through the legal process going forward. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What causes bus accidents?
Busses generally travel at low, non-threatening speeds, and they frequently stop to pick up and discharge passengers. Unfortunately, this does not make them accident-proof. Though bus accidents are sometimes unavoidable due to poor weather conditions, negligent road designs and more, these accidents most frequently occur as a result of bus driver negligence. The most common causes of bus accidents are as follows:
- Sudden stops and starts
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Disregarding massive blind spots
- Failing to ensure safety equipment is aboard
- Negligently discharging passengers
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued
- Disregarding all other rules and regulations of the road
What causes train accidents?
Train accidents, though not as common as bus accidents, are every bit as devastating. Some of the most frequent causes of train accidents are as follows:
- Stalled cars on the track
- Unprotected railroad crossings
- Derailments
- Traincrew or operators working while intoxicated
- Mechanical failures
- Defective tracks
- Loose screws and bolts in tracks
- Misaligned tracks
- Negligent train conductors
- Falling asleep on the job
How long will I have to sue after being injured in a bus/train accident in Maryland?
Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland is three years, giving individuals three years from the date of their accident to file personal injury claims. However, if you plan on filing a lawsuit with the Maryland Transit Administration, you will have to file what is known as a Notice of Clim within one year of your accident. If you wait any longer than one year, you will most likely be denied your right to sue. Do not let this happen. Our firm is ready to help you fight for the compensation you deserve and need.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
The legal team at Markey & Orsi has proudly represented injured clients throughout the state of Maryland for almost 30 years. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence and require strong legal representation, contact Markey & Orsi today to schedule a consultation.