The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is a regional public transportation authority that serves the Philadelphia metropolitan area and its surrounding counties. They provide various modes of transportation including buses, trains, trolleys, and subways. If you were hurt because of an accident involving a SEPTA vehicle, then you may be able to sue SEPTA for the damages you incurred.
However, before filing a lawsuit against a public entity like SEPTA, you will need to notify them of your intent to sue. Usually, this notice must be provided within six months of the date your accident happened. In addition to providing notice, there are several other conditions you must satisfy to recover compensation from SEPTA. Fortunately, the team at our law firm is prepared to help file your claim and fight for the payment you are owed.
After suffering a crash with a SEPTA vehicle, seek help from our experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyers at The Reiff Law Firm by dialing (215) 709-6940.
Filing a Lawsuit Against SEPTA
There are several requirements that must be adhered to when filing a lawsuit against SEPTA. For example, each of the following conditions must be satisfied in order to recover damages in your case:
Provide Notice
As previously mentioned, if you wish to file a lawsuit against SEPTA, then you must notify them of your intent to do so. Typically, SEPTA must receive notice within six months of the crash at issue.
When drafting a notice of your intent to sue, you should include a description of your accident. Providing too little information may hurt your claim’s chances of success. However, you should avoid making any statements that can be construed as apologies or admissions of fault. These statements may be used against you during a later stage of your case.
Guidance from our personal injury attorneys can be highly valuable when providing notice. We can help ensure that you draft an effective letter that protects your rights and interests.
File on Time
In addition to providing notice in a timely manner, you must ensure that your potential case is brought to court on time. Generally, you will have two years from the date of your crash to file your lawsuit against SEPTA. Failure to do so may cause you to miss out on crucial compensation.
While you may have two years from the date of your crash to file your case, you should start working on your lawsuit as soon as you can. The evidence needed to support your claim may become hard to preserve or collect as time goes on. The sooner you begin building your lawsuit, the more efficient your evidence collection process will go.
Other Requirements
Finally, there are several other conditions that have to be satisfied when bringing a lawsuit against SEPTA. For example, you must file your case in the proper jurisdiction, pay any filing fees, attach required supporting documents, serve the defendant, and make sure that you are filing a complete claim. Support from competent legal representation can be highly beneficial when seeking to meet such requirements.
Evidence Used to Recover Damages in a Lawsuit Against SEPTA
In order to recover damages in a lawsuit against SEPTA, you must present evidence that proves the organization is responsible for the injuries you sustained. The following are all examples of evidence that may be utilized in your case:
Surveillance Footage
Surveillance cameras on SEPTA vehicles or at stations can provide visual evidence of the incident. You may use this footage to demonstrate how your accident occurred, identify contributing factors, and prove that SEPTA is at fault.
Eyewitness Testimony
Eyewitnesses who were present during the incident can provide valuable testimony about what they observed. Their accounts can help corroborate the plaintiff’s version of events, shed light on any negligence or unsafe practices by SEPTA personnel, and strengthen the plaintiff’s case.
Accident Reconstruction Analysis
In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may be called upon to recreate the incident. Using available data and evidence, these experts can provide a scientific analysis of how the accident occurred, who was at fault, and whether SEPTA’s actions or inactions contributed to the incident.
Maintenance Records
If the lawsuit involves an accident caused by a mechanical failure or defective equipment on a SEPTA vehicle, maintenance records can be critical. Plaintiffs may use these records to demonstrate whether SEPTA properly maintained its fleet and if any negligence in maintenance led to the incident.
Driver Records and Training Logs
SEPTA’s driver records and training logs can be examined to determine whether the operator involved in the incident received proper training, had any history of safety violations, or was fatigued at the time of the accident. These records can help establish if SEPTA was negligent in hiring or supervising its employees.
Expert Testimony
Experts in relevant fields, such as transportation safety, engineering, or medical experts, can provide their professional opinions on an accident. Their expertise can help the court understand complex technical matters and determine if SEPTA acted negligently or violated industry standards.
Incident Reports and Internal Communications
SEPTA’s internal incident reports and communications can provide insights into the organization’s response to the accident. Plaintiffs may use this evidence to show that SEPTA was aware of potential safety issues but failed to take adequate measures to prevent the incident.
Medical Records and Testimony
If the lawsuit involves personal injury, the plaintiff’s medical records and testimony from medical professionals can establish the extent and nature of the injuries suffered. This evidence can help determine the appropriate compensation for medical expenses, pain, and suffering.
Safety Policies and Procedures
Lastly, you may explore SEPTA’s safety policies and procedures to determine if they were adequate and properly implemented. Deviations from established protocols or failure to follow industry standards can be used to demonstrate negligence on the part of SEPTA.
Call Our Personal Injury Attorneys for Help with Your Case Against SEPTA
In the aftermath of your SEPTA vehicle accident, get support from our experienced Delaware County personal injury lawyers by calling The Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940.
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