In Maryland, the Maryland Transit Authority is responsible for managing all railways in its system. The trains that operate on the tracks must be repaired and maintained to prevent accidents. It is the authority that investigates whenever an accident occurs. A metro rail accident attorney in Upper Marlboro, MD provides legal representation for all victims of the accidents.
The Exact Cause of the Accident
An investigation is launched at any time that an accident happens and involves the railway system. The findings of the investigation define if the railway system itself is at fault for the accident. Typically, these types of accidents involve the tracks, faulty equipment, or issues related to the operator.
Identify the Liable Party
The findings of the investigation define whether the railway itself failed to prevent the accident. Maintenance of the railways is required on an ongoing basis to prevent common accidents. The railway authority is required to mitigate risks associated with the safety of their passengers. The only way that the railway system isn’t responsible for the accident is if an outside party tampered with the trains or the tracks. Another exception applies to faulty equipment purchased from a manufacturer.
Class-Action Lawsuits for Victims
A class-action lawsuit is filed for multiple litigants after a railway accident. Typically, the events cause multiple injuries and often involve a larger volume of victims. The claims are filed according to the most severe injuries first. All proceeds are divided among the litigants included in each claim.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits
A wrongful death lawsuit is filed by the families of victims who died. The claims provide compensation for financial losses associated with the victim’s injuries and death. The claim includes all medical and funeral expenses incurred by the family. It could also include some tort-based requirements, too.
In Maryland, the victims of railway accidents file legal claims against the Maryland Transit Authority when they are involved in an accident. Typically, the findings of the investigation define the liability of the authority. Class-action lawsuits are possible if multiple parties are injured. Victims who need legal help contact a metro rail accident attorney in Upper Marlboro, MD or get free consultations now.
