In Maryland, public transit accidents lead to mass fatalities and life-altering injuries. The survivors and the families of the fallen have a legal right to seek the truth and acquire compensation. It is up to the Washington Metro Area Transit Authority to identify the exact cause of the accident. Local attorneys present a legal avenue for claimants after Metro Accidents in College Park.
Reviewing Maintenance Logs
The maintenance logs present details about all repairs and changes performed on the transit vehicles. The mechanics must follow strict maintenance schedules. These schedules ensure that all parts and equipment required for the vehicles are performing at top performance levels. The strategies mitigate common risks associated with the vehicles. If maintenance schedules aren’t followed a liability is presented.
Assessing the Operators’ Schedule
The operators’ schedule must show that all operators have at least an eight-hour resting period between shifts. This lowers the probability of operator exhaustion. It also prevents accidents that could occur if an operator passes out or becomes conscious for any reason. The schedules must be evaluated to ensure that the manager follows all federal laws and regulations.
Identifying New Equipment
Any new equipment that was installed prior to the accident is assessed. The transit authority must make sure that this new equipment wasn’t faulty. If it wasn’t working properly, it presents a risk and could cause an accident. If it is the cause of the accident, the manufacturer as well as the mechanics that installed it could face liabilities.
Assessing Switched Lines
The switches in the lines must work properly for the operators to switch lanes when needed. If they cannot, it is possible for an accident to occur. A malfunction presents the highest risk. The switched lines are assessed to determine if they are the cause of the accident.
In Maryland, public transit accidents present a higher probability of mass fatalities and serious injuries. The victims of the accidents have the right to compensation for their injuries and related expenses. The families of victims that didn’t survive have access to the same opportunities. Victims or their families who need to discuss the outcome of Metro Accidents in College Park with an attorney contact Jaklitsch Law Group today.