Last week, many residents in the Boston area were excited to learn that the MBTA would be starting a yearlong trial of late night train service in the spring of 2014. The T’s current schedule has undergone scrutiny for many years, and many hope this will be the beginning of a permanent change. The move, which the Globe called “long over-due”, would benefit both those seeking to enjoy the city’s night life as well as workers with late night hours. However, extra hours mean that T passengers should take extra precautions to ensure their safety when traveling at night.
As always, you should remain aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated stops. Hold your belongings close to your body and don’t leave them unattended to avoid unnecessary security alerts. Train operators and the MBTA Transit Police are easily accessible via intercoms at the end of each train car. Avoid risks of physical injury by walking, not running, on the escalators, standing a safe distance from the yellow line, and not blocking closing train doors. When you take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety, the MBTA is responsible for the rest.
Unfortunately, there are cases where, due to negligence, a passenger might suffer injuries while on an MBTA vehicle or on MBTA property. These cases can be the result of unsafe property conditions, violations of maintenance standards, or conductor negligence (such as DUI, fatigue, or cell phone use). Any of these situations could result in slip and falls, broken bones, painful sprains, head injuries, or emotional trauma. In cases such as these, the MBTA, as well as other parties, such as a maintenance company, are liable for the injuries. The injured passenger is owed compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and more. If you have been the victim of this type of negligence, how can you go about getting this compensation?
After you have received medical attention for your injuries, you should seek swift legal action in order to resolve your case. Our experienced personal injury lawyers at Altman & Altman will advocate for you to make sure you collect due compensation for your losses. After we identify the nature and extent of your injury, we will negotiate for an injury settlement, and if necessary, we are fully prepared to represent you through trial.
If you or a loved one has been injured on the Boston Subway, Commuter Rail, Bus or any other MBTA transportation equipment or location, please contact our personal injury law firm by phone at 617.492.3000 or toll-free at (800) 481-6199 or Contact Us Online to schedule a Free Initial Consultation with one of our experienced MBTA/Boston Subway accident lawyers. Our attorneys are available to speak with you around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including nights and weekends.
Late Night MBTA Service Announced, Boston Globe, December 07, 2013