Cleveland RTA Public Transit Accidents
RTA Accident Attorney
As a Cleveland bus accident lawyer, I’ve helped dozens of RTA accident victims obtain financial compensation for their injuries. If you or a family member have been injured while riding on an RTA bus or rapid transit, call me to discuss your injury claim. As always, you will never pay a single penny out of your own pocket! I only get paid if you get paid.
The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates public transportation throughout the Cleveland area. Altogether, the RTA operates rapid transit, light rail, and bus systems throughout Cuyahoga County. Commuters can take advantage of the rapid transit system and the HealthLine BRT, while many other riders routinely use the RTA bus service for transportation around the city, or the downtown trolley.
Many Cleveland-area residents rely on the RTA for transportation from one place to another, but riders should be aware that RTA accidents also happen. Passengers can suffer severe injuries when riding on a public transit vehicle involved in a collision. Public transportation accidents occur far too often, and result in thousands of injuries annually throughout the country. Pedestrians and cyclists are not safe either. They can sustain serious and fatal injuries if struck by an RTA bus or other public transit vehicle.
If you or someone you love were hurt in a collision caused by an RTA transit vehicle, I want to help you seek and obtain the financial compensation you deserve. As a highly experienced Cleveland accident lawyer, let’s talk today. Call the Law Firm of Tim Misny as soon as possible!
Common Types of Public Transit Accidents in Cleveland
There are many ways public transit accidents can occur. Examples include:
Bus Accident
A bus accident occurs when a Regional Transit Authority (RTA) bus collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or object. These accidents often occur at intersections, lane changes, or when a bus driver is unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. Bus accidents can result in serious injuries to passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and occupants of other vehicles involved in the accident.
Train Derailment
A train derailment is a public transportation accident in which an RTA train goes off of its tracks. This can happen due to various factors such as track defects, equipment malfunction, or driver error. Train derailments can result in serious injuries to passengers on the train, and may also pose risks to people and property near the tracks.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can occur within RTA stations, bus stops, or on the vehicles themselves. These accidents typically involve passengers or pedestrians slipping or tripping due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or other hazards on RTA premises. These public areas are supposed to be properly maintained to avoid falls. Such accidents can lead to injuries such as sprains, fractures, head injuries and more.
Train Collisions
Collisions results when two or more RTA trains collide. This can happen in depots, rail yards, or along the tracks. Passengers can suffer injuries by the sudden jolt or from tossing and turning by a derailment caused by the collision.
Platform Accidents
Bus passengers could suffer injury while waiting for or boarding buses or trains. Overcrowding, platform defects, or passenger-related issues can lead to unfortunate injury, sometimes severe.
Electrical Malfunctions
Electrical malfunctions sometimes occur on RTA vehicles or at stations, and may result in fires or electrocutions. Faulty wiring, equipment failures, or power surges can all contribute to these types of accidents.
Vehicle-Pedestrian Accidents
RTA vehicles colliding with pedestrians can be devastating. These incidents happen at crosswalks, intersections, or when pedestrians attempt to cross tracks or streets without using proper caution.
Mechanical Failures
Unfortunately, mechanical failures do happen. Essential components of vehicles, such as brakes or engines can malfunction. It is vitally important for these vehicles to be properly maintained, to ensure the safety of everyone.
By addressing these bus accidents and prioritizing safety measures, regular maintenance, and proper training for train operators and bus drivers, the RTA can minimize the occurrence of accidents. However, when these steps are overlooked, unfortunate accidents occur. Changeable weather also plays a role in Cleveland bus accidents. Icy road conditions can create havoc on our roads, and can result in serious injury. If you’ve been hurt in an accident while riding a RTA bus or train, call me, I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Common Injuries Resulting from an RTA Accident
Many kinds of injuries can result from RTA accidents, and they range widely in terms of their severity. Common injuries include:
Broken Bones or Fractures:
Limb fractures (e.g., arms, legs): specifically, broken bones of the arms and/or legs causing serious pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Rib fractures: Fractures or complete breaks to one or more ribs, can cause excruciating pain, difficulty inhaling/breathing, and increases the potential for developing pneumonia.
Pelvic fractures: These fractures affect the bones of the pelvis and can result in severe pain, inability to walk, and potential internal organ damage.
Collarbone fractures: A broken collarbone can cause pain, shoulder drooping, and limited arm movement.
Facial bone fractures (e.g., jaw, cheekbones): Facial bone fractures can cause pain, swelling, and in severe cases, facial disfigurement.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs):
Mild concussions: Mild TBIs often result in confusion, headaches, and temporary memory loss.
Moderate to severe TBIs: These injuries can cause long-term cognitive deficits, memory problems, and changes in behavior.
Cerebral contusions: A cerebral contusion indicates bruising of the brain tissue. This can lead to cognitive impairments and neurological deficits.
Intracranial hemorrhages: Hemorrhages/ bleeding within the brain can be life-threatening.
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs):
Paraplegia (paralysis of the lower limbs): Paraplegia is the loss of motor function and sensation in the lower body.
Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs): Quadriplegia is the irreversible paralysis of the upper and lower body, often resulting in severe disability.
Nerve damage: Spinal cord injuries suffered in accidents often damage nerves, causing chronic pain and mobility issues.
Amputations or Loss of Limb:
Loss of fingers, hands, toes, or feet: Amputations of digits involves the removal of a limb or portion of a limb, which can significantly impact mobility and daily life.
Upper or lower limb amputations: Amputations of entire limbs, such as arms or legs, may require prosthetic limbs and extensive rehabilitation.
Reconstructive surgeries: In some cases, reconstructive surgeries may be performed to repair or improve the appearance and function of amputated limbs.
Facial Injuries and Disfigurement:
Facial lacerations and contusions: These injuries can result in visible scars and may require surgical repair.
Broken or dislocated jaw: Jaw injuries can affect speech, chewing, and facial aesthetics.
Dental injuries: Trauma to the face can cause tooth loss or damage, requiring extensive dental work.
Permanent scarring and disfigurement: Severe facial injuries can lead to permanent disfigurement, affecting one’s self-esteem and quality of life.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
Emotional and psychological trauma: PTSD is a mental health condition characterized by flashbacks, anxiety, and emotional distress following a traumatic event.
Flashbacks and nightmares: Individuals with PTSD may experience intrusive and distressing memories of the accident.
Anxiety and depression: PTSD often leads to persistent feelings of anxiety and depression.
Sleep disturbances and emotional distress: Sleep problems and emotional challenges are common in individuals suffering with PTSD.
Internal Injuries:
Organ damage (e.g., liver, spleen): Blunt force trauma can cause internal organ injuries, leading to pain, and organ dysfunction.
Internal bleeding: Internal bleeding can result from internal trauma, potentially resulting in life-threatening situations.
Abdominal injuries: Trauma to the abdomen can damage to internal organs and necessitate long-term medical care.
Chest injuries (e.g., collapsed lung): Injuries to the chest can result a broken ribs and collapsed lungs.
Soft Tissue Injuries:
Strains and sprains: Soft tissue injuries include damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments and cause pain, and reduced mobility.
Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury commonly associated with sudden deceleration, causing neck pain and stiffness.
Contusions (bruises): Contusions are bruises caused by blunt trauma, resulting in localized discoloration and pain.
Torn ligaments or tendons: Severe trauma can lead to torn ligaments or tendons, necessitating surgical repair and rehabilitation.
Crush Injuries:
Crushed limbs: These injuries occur when arms or legs are compressed, causing tissue damage, fractures, and compartment syndrome.
Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome is a condition where increased pressure within muscle compartments can impair blood flow, requiring surgical intervention.
Muscle and tissue damage: Crush injuries can cause significant damage to muscles and tissues, potentially leading to long-term complications.
Eye Injuries:
Corneal abrasions: Corneal abrasions are scratches on the eyeball’s outer surface, causing severe pain and visual disturbances.
Retinal damage: Trauma to the eye can cause retinal damage or a detachment. If not surgically corrected, permanent blindness may result.
Eye trauma leading to vision impairment: Other severe eye injuries can result in permanent vision impairment or blindness.
Respiratory Injuries:
Inhalation injuries (smoke or toxic fumes): Inhalation of smoke or toxic fumes can damage the respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties and long-term lung problems.
Respiratory distress: Traumatic injuries may cause respiratory distress, which requires immediate medical attention.
Lung damage: Severe accidents can lead to lung damage, resulting in permanent respiratory impairment.
Suffering any of these injuries can be devastating. You will have to deal with severe pain, medical bills, extended recovery time, and likely lost wages due to missed work. Recovering compensation is vital for your physical recovery. Call me today for a free consultation.
Who is Responsible for a Cleveland Public Transit Accident?
Liability for a public transit accident depend upon the specific facts of your case. In many situations, the driver or operator of the public transit vehicle may have been negligent, and that negligence may have caused the accident. Another motorist may be responsible for a collision involving a public transportation vehicle. In other cases, the public vehicle may have been improperly maintained and a factor in the accident.
Issues With The RTA
Rail (Rapid Transit):
Aging Infrastructure: The RTA’s rail system faces challenges related to aging infrastructure, including tracks, stations, and signaling systems. Maintenance and upgrades are necessary to address wear and tear.
Service Disruptions: Due to maintenance needs and budget constraints, service disruptions have been a recurring issue for rail commuters, causing inconvenience and delays.
Buses:
Funding Shortfalls: The bus system has struggled with funding shortfalls, impacting service frequency and reliability.
Old Buses: The bus fleet, particularly older diesel buses, raise concerns about safety and sustainability.
Trolleys:
Maintenance and Reliability: Historic trolleys, though charming, have faced reliability issues due to their age. Frequent maintenance is required to keep them operational.
Sustainability Challenges: Maintaining historic trolleys, which may lack modern fuel-efficient technology, pose sustainability issues.
The RTA is essential for many people’s commute to and from work, as well as a fun way to get downtown to enjoy a ballgame or a night out. It is vital for the safety of Cleveland residents that safety precautions are taken seriously, and regular maintenance is performed.
Sadly, accidents happen and people are seriously injured. If you’ve been in an accident and injured while riding an RTA vehicle, call me. I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Contact Me for Help With Your Injury Claim
Those of us who rely on public transportation to get from one place to another, likely never imagine they can be hurt in an RTA accident. You will need legal representation – I will make sure the responsible party is held accountable. Whether the accident was due to driver negligence, poor maintenance, or another driver, I’ll find out what happened and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
FAQs About Public Transportation Accidents
What should I do immediately after a public transportation accident?
After an accident involving a public transportation vehicle, prioritize safety. Check for injuries among passengers and drivers. If there are injuries call emergency services immediately. If possible, move vehicles to a safe location and wait for law enforcement to arrive.
Should I seek medical attention even if I don’t feel injured?
It’s advisable to seek medical attention after any accident, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away, and a medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries or issues.
What information should I gather at the accident scene?
Collect essential information, including the names and contact details of all drivers and passengers involved, license plate numbers, vehicle descriptions, witness information. Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
What documentation and evidence should I keep for a potential legal claim?
Keep all relevant documents, including accident reports, medical records, insurance correspondence, repair estimates, and any communication related to the accident. Photos and witness statements can also be valuable evidence.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after the accident?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims can vary. Call me as soon as possible to discuss your injury claim.
What can I do if I believe the public transportation driver was negligent?
If you suspect negligence on the part of the public transportation driver, it is imperative to call me right away at 800-556-4769.
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