Atlanta MARTA Accident Lawyer

Experienced MARTA Accident Lawyers in Atlanta

Buses and trains are among the safest forms of transportation available, and statistics on ridership reveal that many residents around Atlanta rely on public transit to get around. The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Association (MARTA) reports that it has completed more than 5 billion trips carrying passengers by bus and rail since opening in 1979.

The system provides reliable transportation to more than 500,000 people in Metro Atlanta, with services all day long and throughout the week. However, while public transit is generally safe, MARTA accidents often occur when buses, streetcars, and trains are sharing the road with both motorists and non-motorists.

You could suffer serious injuries in a MARTA collision, but it is reassuring to know that you can seek compensation for your losses. Because the process is complicated when you are pursuing a public entity, it is critical to retain skilled legal representation. At Wetherington Law Firm, our team is knowledgeable about the laws and experienced in developing strategies for enforcing your rights. Please contact us today to schedule a free case review with an Atlanta MARTA accident lawyer. An overview of the relevant concepts is also helpful.

Common Injuries in Mass Transit Accidents

Just like car accidents or even truck accidents that happen frequently in Atlanta, there are many different ways you could suffer harm in a MARTA accident, based upon your position in the encounter. You could be a passenger on the bus or train, but you might be the occupant of another vehicle, a pedestrian, a bicycle rider, or another road user. Victims often suffer:

• Broken bones;
• Concussion, traumatic brain injuries, and other head injuries;
• Trauma to internal organs;
• Spinal cord injuries and fractured vertebrae;
• Cuts, serious bruises, and abrasions;
• Sprains to the tissues that connect bones;
• Muscle and tendon strains;
• Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash, herniated and bulging discs in the spine, and bursitis; and,
• Many others

In almost all cases, the size differential between the MARTA vehicle and a motorized vehicle is significant. The occupants of the passenger car are more likely to sustain serious harm. When the victim was on foot or on a bicycle, fatalities and catastrophic injuries are common. However, it is also important to realize that you could be hurt in MARTA accidents that have nothing to do with traffic. Slip and falls and related incidents can happen in terminals, stations, and stops when officials do not maintain the property in a safe condition.

The Basis for Liability in a MARTA Claim

Like other traffic collisions, accidents involving public transportation are typically based upon negligence. To prove your claim, you must show that the accident occurred because the train or bus driver failed to exercise reasonable care when operating the MARTA vehicle. Negligence is also the theory of liability behind injury-causing incidents on the property, so you would need to prove that MARTA officials were careless in maintaining depots, stations, and other common areas.

However, there is also a concept of liability that applies to common carriers, including public transit systems like MARTA. Officials are required to use the utmost care and diligence to ensure safe transportation for passengers, a duty that goes beyond negligence principles. In addition, keep in mind:

• You may qualify to recover medical costs, pain and suffering, and many other losses in a successful claim.
• The Georgia statute of limitations is 2 years, BUT there is a shorter period of time to file a claim for a case involving MARTA. You have 6 months to take action, so time is of the essence.

What to do if You Were Injured in a MARTA Accident

The chaos and confusion of a collision can be overwhelming, but some tips can help you cope with the situation. Plus, you support the efforts of our Atlanta MARTA accident attorneys at Wetherington Law Firm, if you can tackle a few tasks:

• Get appropriate medical care right away, at the ER, an urgent care center, or your primary care physician.
• Use your cell phone camera to take pictures at the scene, including the intersection, span of roadway, surrounding conditions, skid marks, and other indications.
• Do not discuss fault or how you think the MARTA accident happened.
• If contacted by an insurance company, decline to answer questions or provide a statement.

How to Pursue Compensation after a MARTA Public Transit Accident

Being in an accident on MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit, can be a confusing and stressful experience. Knowing how to pursue compensation and understand your rights is crucial. Here’s a guide to help:

1. Know Your Rights: As a passenger, you have the right to be safe. If you’re hurt in a MARTA accident, you can seek compensation for your injuries and losses.
2. Report the Accident: Immediately report the accident to MARTA authorities. This is a crucial first step in documenting what happened.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Get medical help even if you think you’re not badly hurt. Some injuries take time to show.
4. Document Everything: Keep records of your injuries and any treatment you receive. This includes medical bills, doctor’s notes, and any time off work.
5. Understand Public Transit Liability: Public transit accidents can be complex. MARTA may have different rules compared to regular car accidents.
6. Contact an Experienced Attorney: A lawyer who knows about public transit accidents in Atlanta can guide you. They can help you understand how to claim compensation.
7. Investigate the Accident: Your lawyer can help investigate what caused the accident. This might include looking at MARTA’s safety records or the condition of the vehicle.
8. Negotiate with Insurance Companies: If you file a claim, you might have to deal with insurance companies. An attorney can handle these talks to ensure you get a fair deal.
9. Consider Legal Action: If needed, you can file a lawsuit. This is especially important if your claim is denied or you’re not offered enough compensation.

The Role of an Atlanta MARTA Accident Lawyer in Your Injury Case

If you’re involved in an accident on MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit system, an Atlanta MARTA accident lawyer can be crucial in your injury case. Here’s how they help:

1. Expert Legal Advice: These lawyers specialize in cases involving MARTA. They know the specific laws and regulations that apply to public transit accidents in Atlanta.
2. Investigating the Accident: Your lawyer will look into what caused the accident. This can include checking MARTA’s safety records, the condition of the vehicle, and driver conduct.
3. Representing Your Interests: MARTA accidents can be complicated. Your lawyer will stand up for your rights, making sure your voice is heard.
4. Handling Insurance Claims: They can deal with any insurance claims. This is important because dealing with public transit insurance can be different from regular car insurance.
5. Seeking Compensation: They’ll work to get you compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other costs from the accident. They know how to calculate what you’re owed.
6. Negotiating Settlements: If there’s a chance to settle outside of court, your lawyer will handle the negotiations. They’ll aim to get you a fair deal.
7. Taking Your Case to Court: If needed, they can take your case to trial. They’ll prepare a strong case to present in front of a judge and jury.

Set Up a Consultation with Our Atlanta MARTA Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been involved in a MARTA accident in Atlanta and need legal guidance, don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Contact our experienced Atlanta MARTA accident lawyers today. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Our team is ready to offer you personalized legal support and expert advice every step of the way.