Utilizing public transportation is an effective way to save money on costs associated with owning a vehicle. As an added bonus, it’s a great way to do your part in helping the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. Unfortunately, dangers lurk in public transportation avenues like subways, buses, and trains.
Public Transportation Crashes
Just like travelling by car, using public transportation isn’t without its risk. Every day, we hear about public transportation accidents that lead to injury. In September, a Metro Bus collided with an SUV in northwest Houston, killing the driver. According to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, there is an average of 50,000 bus accidents in the United States each year. Vehicle crashes put passengers at risk for personal injury, including:
- Broken limbs. Passengers are unsecured in buses, so rollovers or other types of crashes can lead to fractures of arms and legs.
- Head injuries. It’s possible for passengers to suffer from closed head injuries and traumatic brain injuries when their heads strike windows or doors.
- Spinal cord injury. In extreme cases, public transportation accidents can lead to damage to the spinal cord, which has devastating, life-long consequences.
- Cuts, scrapes, and burns. Passengers are vulnerable to road rash, bruises, and other forms of acute trauma.
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Dangers Posed by Others
Public transportation can pose a threat to your safety for reasons other than crashes. Subway and bus stations are prime sources for criminal activity. Becoming a victim of a crime, like mugging or assault, can lead to more than bodily harm. Victims often struggle with emotional side effects from post-traumatic stress disorders, including:
- Flashbacks or bad dreams. Victims may return to the scene of the crime, unable to return to normal daily functioning.
- Avoiding areas that remind them of the experience. It’s normal for victims of a trauma to experience some degree of emotional upset, but when this fear interferes with daily life, it’s considered PTSD.
- Strong feelings of guilt. When multiple victims are involved, people may experience what’s known as “survivor’s guilt.”
- Insomnia or angry outbursts. A lack of sleep may contribute to mood swings that put pressure on relationships with friends and family.
I’ve Been Injured in a Public Transportation Accident. Now What?
Being involved in a public transportation accident is a harrowing experience. Your first thought should be tending to your own safety and health. Visit the hospital, attend therapy, and keep all of your doctor’s appointments to ensure you have the best chance of making a full recovery.
Unfortunately, being involved in an accident carries its own set of headaches. Your insurance company may fight to pay your mounting medical bills, citing obscure reasons. Missing time from work can drastically affect your financial situation, adding to your stress level.
In situations like these, filing a personal injury claim can help hasten your road to recovery. A fair settlement will help you pay for your medical bills, make up for missed work time, and compensate you for your emotional suffering. You should never have to pay the price for someone else’s negligence or crimes.
Even if the responsible party is facing charges or fines in criminal court, you’re eligible to collect additional damages through the civil courts. The lawyers at Brian White have the experience you need to negotiate a fair settlement for your personal injury case. If you’re ready to receive compensation for your personal injury claim, contact our office for a free evaluation. After reviewing the specifics of your case, a member of our team will help advise you of the next steps.
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Contact the Houston Personal Injury Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers For Help
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers at (713) 500-5000.
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About the Author Brian White
Brian White earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in Houston and is licensed to practice in Texas. He is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer.
Dedicated to giving back, he actively supports local charities and community initiatives.
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