Public transport systems play a vital role in helping people to commute in a safe, reliable, and efficient way. With today’s focus on reducing carbon emissions, not to mention the increase in fuel charges that drivers are facing, more and more people seem to be turning to public transportation as a smarter more economically sound option. But with so many people commuting, there can be issues and accidents, in particular, personal injury incidents.
So how does a public transport system ensure a safe commute for all? What are some of the safety measures they can put in place? Here we’ll take a look at some of the dangers of using public transportation, and what’s being done to improve on the safety.
Keeping Platforms Clear and Dry
One of the most important steps public transportation systems take is keeping platforms clear and dry. That means removing debris and anything that may act as a potential obstacle, which becomes a tripping hazard. It also means cleaning up spills, puddles, and water pooling immediately. Water pooling poses a slipping hazard since people don’t always notice the water until it’s too late.
There should be adequate cleaning staff in place that are constantly looking for these issues and addressing them right away.
Operator Negligence Can Also Cause Injury
Did you know that operator negligence can also cause injury both to the passengers on that carrier, and people around the transportation carrier? A sudden stop, a sharp turn, or a sudden increase or decrease in speed can also cause people to fall, stumble, and suffer other types of injuries. Passengers always need to hang on to grab rails, bars, and handles for this exact reason, but sometimes that’s still not enough.
Improper Maintenance Can Lead to Disastrous Consequences
Another issue can be improper maintenance of the carrier, which can lead to disastrous and even deadly consequences. Passengers shouldn’t have to worry about whether the carrier (bus, train, or streetcar) is in good working conditions and if all the parts are working properly. This is up to the carrier itself, which needs to stay on top of preventative maintenance and repairs and operating the carrier in the intended way.
Overloading Cars Is a Recipe for Disaster
For those who have been commuting for years, you probably know what it feels like to be packed in and question whether the carrier is overloaded. Did you know this too can pose a safety concern? If people can’t move about freely and safely, as well as enter and exit the carrier with ease, then there is a serious problem. This is why public transportation has maximum capacity limits in place.
What Are the Most Common Injuries?
While you never want to paint over a complex situation with broad strokes, some injuries are more common when it comes to public transportation systems.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Concussion
- Traumatic brain injury
- Muscle sprains and tears
- Cuts and lacerations
These injuries can vary greatly in terms of severity, and none should be taken lightly, especially since the true extent of injuries may not be visible at first.
Public Transportation Injuries Can Be Severe and Numerous
Despite the rules and regulations regarding public transportation safety, accidents can still occur. Personal injury due to the lack of maintenance, operator negligence, or even manufacturing negligence in terms of the carrier you’re in is a reality that many passengers are faced to deal with. And it’s not just injuries; fatalities can also occur. In 2021, there were 322 deaths reported in the U.S. throughout various public transit systems. It’s a sobering statistic and one no one wants to be part of.
If you rely on public transportation for commuting and have suffered a personal injury due to the negligence of another person or party, then you could have a strong claim and be eligible for compensation. Ideally, you want to gather witness accounts and photographic evidence of the incident, as this will strengthen your case. Also strengthening your case is working with us at Binder Law Group, as we have extensive experience in terms of public transportation accidents.
We understand exactly what’s needed to prove your claim, and what fair compensation should look like. We want to ensure your current and future medical costs related to your injury are covered, as well as other things such as pain and suffering thanks to the trauma sustained, loss of work, and more.
Come in and visit us at 16633 Ventura Blvd. #602 Encino, CA 91436.
You can also call now for a free consultation at (818) 659-8588.