Recovering Compensation Following an Alabama Mass Transit Accident
If you commute to work in the state of Alabama, there is a good chance you take a train or a bus. While the two means of transportation are generally safer than cars or other motor vehicles, they are unfortunately not without danger. If you have been injured in a mass transit accident, you are most likely wondering about financial compensation. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most frequent causes of train accidents in Alabama?
Train accidents can be caused by any number of factors, though the most common is almost always human negligence. Here are some of the most frequent causes of train accidents:
- Railroad employees falling asleep
- Railroad employees operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Crew members receiving improper instructions
- Improper use of brakes
- Improper alignment of railroad switches
- Excessively speeding
- Failure to comply with orders
- Failure to secure or release hand brakes
It is important to know that a train accident is not always the train operator’s fault. Sometimes, other factors, such as railroad upkeep, will contribute to a train accident. Worn down rails, cracks around bolt holes, broken welds, rusted or damaged tracks, or broken and defective switches may also play a role in train accidents.
What are the most common causes of bus accidents in Alabama?
Buses, though generally less likely to crash than cars, are still a potential safety risk. Here are some of the most common causes of bus accidents:
- Bus fires
- Lack of fire extinguishers or safety belts
- Defective emergency exits
- Inclement weather conditions
- Negligent road design
- Driving under the influence
- Driving while fatigued
- Large blind spots
- Sudden stops and starts
How may I recover compensation following a mass transit accident?
In order to recover compensation, you have to prove another negligent party is responsible for the injuries you have sustained. Mass transit and insurance companies will not always willingly give you thousands of dollars in compensation money, so it is important you hire an attorney who is ready to fight them. Additionally, since many buses and trains have security cameras, there is a good chance your accident is on film. This is generally the best proof you can offer in a personal injury claim. You should also make it a point to see a medical professional immediately after you were injured, as he or she will provide you with medical documentation regarding your injuries that you may use to support your claim.
Contact our experienced Alabama firm
Stone Crosby, P.C. has proudly served clients in Alabama for over 100 years. Our firm has experience handling matters including divorce and family law, estate planning and administration, business law, employment law, class actions, consumer protection, business law, real estate law, among many others. If you require quality legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
