Tourists and visitors using New York Subway systems often find subway stations to be dangerous with regard to the dark and desolate un-lit stairwells, escalators, or platforms.
New York personal injury lawyers that a municipal liability accident or premise liability accident can occur when a dangerous condition at a subway station or bus stop is not addressed.
New York subway stations are a popular place when commuters are trying to get to work or sports fans are trying to get to sporting events. Train and subway station managers have a responsibility to keep their stations’ platforms, stairwells, and escalators in good repair. According to Federal Railroad Administration there have been over 20 fatalities each year on New York railways over the last 3 consecutive years. NY Subway reports that platforms are often the most dangerous place for accidents to occur. In fact, 90% of incidents occur on platforms throughout the city, which plays host to over 4 million people every day.
Not all accidents involve adult commuters or involve incidents on the tracks. The New York Times recently reported about a young high school student who was seriously injured on his way to school. The student was moving swiftly down the narrow and dimly lit steps before falling into a southbound express train on the southern end platform at Union Square station. The boy hit his head on the stationary subway train and sustained serious injuries but did not fall onto the tracks. He was transported to the hospital in critical conditon.
Trains and subways are a popular mode of transportation for fans traveling to New York sporting events. As baseball season becomes in full swing, fans attending Mets and Yankees games are reminded of the following safety tips when traveling by train or subway:
-Catch an early train or subway to avoid peak commuter travel. Getting to the game early allows time to watch batting practice or catch a few autographs.
-Never run or walk on escalators and always face forward. Stairwells should never be run down, especially when overly crowded.
-Never stand at the edge of a platform while waiting for the train or subway to arrive. Platforms are clearly marked for safety so make sure you stay in a safe area.
-Wait for everyone to clear from the door before stepping on to the car. Make sure all items like jackets, umbrellas, bags or personal items are clear of the door before it closes.
-When standing while riding, be sure you hang on to a bar, hand strap or seat around you to maintain balance at all times. A sudden stop or push by other riders could result in serious injury if you fall down.
New York personal injury lawyer Nicholas Rose is dedicated to fighting for the rights of personal injury victims. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a subway or train accident in New York City, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose for a free and confidential appointment. Call 1-718-261-0546 or toll free at 1-877-313-7673.
