Riding the St. Pete Trolley is a fun and easy way to explore St. Petersburg, Florida. But just like with cars or buses, trolley accidents can and do happen. If you’ve been hurt while riding the trolley, you may be entitled to compensation.
Understanding your legal rights can help you take the right steps after an accident. This article breaks down what causes trolley accidents, who might be responsible, and what you should do if you’re injured.
Common Causes of St. Pete Trolley Accidents
Trolley accidents can happen in many ways. Here are some of the most common causes:
Driver Error
Trolley drivers are trained professionals, but mistakes still happen. Distracted driving, speeding, or not following traffic rules can lead to crashes.
Other Drivers on the Road
Trolleys share the road with cars, bikes, and pedestrians. When other drivers act recklessly—like running red lights or cutting in front of the trolley—it can cause an accident.
Mechanical Failures
If the trolley isn’t properly maintained, problems like brake failure or steering issues can occur. These mechanical problems can lead to crashes or sudden stops that injure passengers.
Poor Road Conditions
Road construction, potholes, or slippery streets from rain can also lead to accidents.
No matter the cause, if you were injured as a passenger, you have rights.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
Knowing who is at fault is key in any personal injury claim. In a St. Pete Trolley accident, there could be more than one responsible party:
The Trolley Operator
If the driver caused the accident due to careless or reckless actions, the company they work for might be responsible.
The City or Transit Authority
Trolleys are often operated by public agencies like the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. If the accident happened due to poor maintenance or hiring unqualified drivers, the transit authority might be held accountable.
Another Driver
If another vehicle caused the crash, the at-fault driver (and their insurance company) could be responsible for your injuries.
Manufacturers or Maintenance Companies
If a defect in the trolley caused the crash, the maker of that part or the company responsible for repairs may be liable.
Figuring out who is responsible can be tricky, but a personal injury lawyer can help you determine who could be held liable in your case.
What to Do After a Trolley Accident
Being in an accident can be overwhelming. Here are the steps to take if you’re hurt while riding the trolley:
1. Get Medical Help
Your health comes first. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show up right away. Always get checked by a doctor.
2. Report the Accident
Let the trolley driver know you were injured. Ask them to file an official report and get a copy if you can.
3. Collect Information
If you’re able, take pictures of the scene, get names of other passengers or witnesses, and write down the trolley number and route.
4. Don’t Talk to Insurance Companies Alone
The trolley company’s insurer may try to call you. Be careful what you say. It’s best to speak to a lawyer first.
What Can You Recover in a Claim?
If you’re hurt in a St. Pete Trolley accident, you may be able to recover damages that cover:
- Medical expenses, like hospital visits, surgeries, prescriptions, and future treatment
- Lost income, if you had to miss work because of your injury
- Pain and suffering, which can include physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish
- Disability or long-term effects, if your injury affects your ability to work or enjoy life
- Wrongful death, if a loved one died due to the accident, surviving family members may file a claim
The exact amount you can recover depends on how severe your injuries are and who was responsible for the accident.
Contact Our Experienced St. Petersburg Personal Injury Lawyers If You’ve Been Injured on the St. Pete Trolley
Trolley rides should be safe and enjoyable—but if something goes wrong, it’s important to know your rights.
Whether the accident was caused by driver error, bad weather, or another vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation. Getting medical care, reporting the incident, and speaking to an experienced lawyer are the best steps you can take.
Our team at Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers is ready to help. With the proper support, you can focus on healing while your legal team takes care of the rest. Call us today to set up a free consultation.
Contact the Pinellas County Personal Injury Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help
For more information, please contact the Clearwater and St. Petersburg personal injury law firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Pinellas County and its surrounding areas:
Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 796-8282
Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 349-1728
The post Accidents Involving the St. Pete Trolley: Your Rights as a Passenger appeared first on Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers.
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