Taking public transportation is typically safer, more cost effective, and better for the environment than driving individual vehicles. However, the Mass Bay Transit Authority (MBTA), which operates busses, trains, and ferries in Boston and the surrounding communities, has had its share of accidents in the last few years. Due to the sheer number of people using MBTA to commute every day, accidents often result in serious injuries and death. No public transportation system is perfect, but the MBTA has come under scrutiny lately for having outdated equipment, issues with their drivers, problems with management, all of which leads to less than ideal conditions for its riders and potential safety issues as well. Contact a Boston Personal Injury Lawyer Today.
Recent MBTA Accidents
- Last month, a pedestrian was struck by a MBTA bus at the intersection of Albany and Massachusetts streets.
- Six bus passengers were injured when a MBTA bus collided with another vehicle at the intersection of Warren and Quincy avenues last year.
- In 2014, a MBTA bus driver who claims that she closed her eyes while sneezing, slammed into a guardrail in Newton. However, bus surveillance video showed that the driver was holding a cell phone in her left hand during the accident. Several passengers, who sustained non-life threatening injuries, said that she was driving too fast.
Beyond the Bus
- Just this month, a man was struck and killed by a MBTA train near the Mansfield commuter station.
- In 2009, dozens of people sustained serious injuries when the driver of a Green Line train crashed while allegedly texting. In response to that accident, MBTA operators are not permitted to have cell phones in their possession during work shifts.
Preferential Treatment?
In light of multiple accidents over the years, one might think that local law enforcement is cracking down on MBTA bus drivers involved in accidents. But it seems that the opposite may be true. In a WBZ investigation conducted last year, two people who had been injured in MBTA bus accidents claimed that the bus drivers got off clean. One source said that a T bus rear ended, and nearly killed her three years ago. The other accident involved a pedestrian who was dragged about 20 feet after being hit by a MBTA bus. In both cases, no charges were filed. The driver of the bus that hit and dragged the pedestrian received a citation, but it was “retracted and subsequently not issued.” In a statement to WBZ, an unnamed Transit police officer said, “You don’t write bus drivers.” According to the officer, when citations do get issued they, “will be taken care of later.”
Bus accidents can occur for many reasons, including an intoxicated driver, a driver who is texting or otherwise distracted, speeding, and faulty or defective vehicle parts. Whatever the reason, if you’re injured in a MBTA bus accident, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced injury lawyer.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Experienced MBTA Accident Attorneys
In addition to bus accidents, the lawyers at Altman & Altman, LLP also represent clients who have been injured in other types of MBTA Accidents, including:
- Train derailments
- Light-rail accidents
- Freight and passenger train collisions
- Subway accidents
- Accidents due to improper signage or unmarked crossings
- Accidents due to faulty or defective equipment or vehicles
- T-Train accidents
If you have been injured in any type of accident, we can help. Our skilled and compassionate lawyers have been fighting for the rights of accident and injury victims for over 50 years. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free consultation about your case.