Maryland Accident Law Blog
Mass transit can provide a net benefit to the commuting public as well as the municipalities which support these transportation systems. The economic and health benefits to local communities are well documented, and the use of city buses and light rail lines both contribute significantly to an overall reduction in travel hours logged by commuters. An important benefit is a large reduction in roadway congestion, which ultimately translates into fewer traffic accidents, injuries and deaths.
The trend over the past couple of decades, has seen a large increase in the mass transit ridership among 16- to 34-year-olds. In fact, most students and younger workers actually prefer walkable communities over sprawling metropolitan regions; they are seeking to live within walking distance of retail shops, restaurants, grocery stores and the like versus needing to drive longer distances like their parents have in the past. On the whole, mass transit provides a safe, convenient and economical alternative to traveling by car; but as with many things in life, there are risks associated with public transport.
The freedom and mobility provided by public transit is compelling; however, if something goes wrong, many more people can be affected. Equipment trouble, power failures and weather emergencies can put a damper on the convenience of subway or light-rail travel. Sometimes, the unanticipated action of a single individual can upset the lives and livelihoods of dozens or hundreds of people. Train-related accidents can also result in serious injury or death, as well.