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Experienced Maryland Lawyers Protecting Victims of Common Carrier Accidents

Our legal team seeks compensation for those injured in mass transit accidents

Our home state of Maryland is a hotbed of traffic and transit activity, especially given our proximity to the Washington, D.C. Metro area. Because of the variety of ways we get ourselves around—cars, bikes, on foot, taxis, buses, trains, even airplanes—accidents involving mass transit (or “common carriers”) are bound to happen, even though these systems are generally safe. And, due to the sheer size of common carrier vehicles, and the amount of people traveling inside them, these accidents tend to be serious with scores of injuries.

At Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. our legal team is experienced in common carrier and mass transit accidents. We represent people like you, who were injured through no fault of your own, in seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact our personal injury attorneys today to talk about your case.

What is a common carrier accident?

Mass transit systems at work in Maryland and the Baltimore area include buses, subways, taxis, and trains. These would also include the WMATA Metro system. Riders also have the option of taking an Uber or a Lyft, which is not quite public transportation – but not the same as driving oneself, either. Any mass transit or common carrier system, unfortunately, is vulnerable to accidents.

Train, taxi, bus, subway and other mass transit accidents tend to be worse than others because of the size of the vehicles, and because they typically don't provide safety equipment like airbags or seatbelts. Many commuters on trains or subways stand during rush hour, which make them even more vulnerable in the event of a crash or collision.

Common carrier accidents can happen for many reasons, but here are some of the most typical:

  • Driver/operator fatigue
  • Human error
  • Inadequate employee training
  • Improper maintenance of transit vehicles, tracks, or roads
  • Defective or malfunctioning parts
  • Obsolete equipment
  • Inadequate security
  • Incorrect dispatching that causes a collision
  • Collisions with other vehicles
  • Traffic violations (speeding, tailgating, illegal turns, etc.)
  • Employees operating their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including prescription medication)
  • Bad weather such as rain, snow, or ice

Types of injuries from accidents on public transportation

Injuries from a common carrier accident can range from mild to catastrophic. It could be a slip and fall on an icy subway platform or massive event like a plane crash. Depending on the nature of the accident, injuries from a mass transit accident can include:

Common carrier accident liability

When you board a bus, train, taxi, subway, or other form of mass transit, you're traveling on what's called a common carrier. Common carriers operate public transportation, and have a duty of care to protect their passengers' safety. If a company fails to provide their duty of care and you are injured, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. These cases, however, can be complicated because they tend to involve many different parties—including the train/bus/taxi drivers, conductors, dispatchers, the train or bus company, the city or state government, safety inspectors, any drivers involved in the accident, or any manufacturers of faulty parts.

If you were injured in a mass transit accident or plane crash, you should obtain qualified legal advice as soon as possible. These cases are often complicated, with multiple victims, defendants, and insurance companies. Further, when you're dealing with the government, the timeframe to notify or file with government may be much shorter than with a typical lawsuit. Always speak to an attorney before signing anything. You may unknowingly sign away your rights to a lawsuit.

Our Maryland lawyers represent those hurt in mass transit accidents

Bus, train, metro, or taxi accidents can cause serious and life-changing injuries. These cases can be complex and challenging to deal with alone. The Maryland injury attorneys at Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. hold negligent parties responsible so you can focus on healing. We will fight for the maximum compensation for your injuries. To learn more, or to schedule a free consultation, please call 410-730-7737 or fill out our contact form.