In light of the news coming out of Chicago this morning, in which two of the Chicago Transit Authority's "el" trains collided, many questions may be raised relating to what you should do if you are ever involved in a similar situation. (see 33 Injured after 2 CTA trains crash)
If you, or a loved one, is ever involved in such an incident, the first thing is to make sure you and/or your loved one is ok. Check for any injuries or pain, and if any injuries or pain are present, make sure to call an ambulance or seek immediate medical attention.
Second, you should know your rights after being involved in such an incident. If you are injured in a collision on a bus, train, or any other mass transit system, you have the right to recover financial compensation for your injuries, the pain and suffering related to your injuries, any disfigurement and disabilities related to these injuries, and for the impact these injuries can have on your life. However, it is your job to assert your rights; no one will do it for you without action on your part.
Mass transit operators, such as the Chicago Transit Authority, owe a duty to all their passengers to operate their vehicles and manage their systems in a reasonable manner for the safety of its passengers and other foreseeable parties who may be injured. It is always advisable to seek out the advise of an attorney experienced in these types of cases as soon as possible. Remember, there are laws that limit the amount of time you have to file a claim, and with mass transit systems owned or operated by government entities, that time limit may be shorter than you think.
*This is attorney advertising, and is not intended to be taken as legal advice, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship. Any advice given in the preceding statement is given as general advice and is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice for any specific scenarios. For specific advice, or for answers to your questions, call Eckert & Smestad (312-789-4810) or call a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
