If you do not like to drive your own car or do not own a vehicle yourself, you are fortunate enough to have options around you for public transit. City buses run many of the streets in Maricopa County and the light rail provides convenient rides in and around Phoenix. Now, those who rely upon public transit and those who use it on an occasional basis may find things a little more convenient as the newest stretch of the light rail opened on Saturday, lengthening the service area and providing greater access to many.
After more than three years of construction, the light rail line along 19th Avenue opened Saturday and will provide service to a 3.2 mile area between Montebello Avenue and Dunlap Avenue. Officials believe that approximately 5,000 additional rides will be taken every day on the light rail due to the expansion and that many businesses, schools, and community centers will be accessible because of the line.
Saturday’s activities included a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9:00 a.m. before rides began officially at 10:00 a.m. Many who live in the area are happy that they not only have the ability to use the light rail but that the addition of three new stations would bring in others to their communities, supporting their businesses and helping the area thrive.
Public transportation is a positive aspect of living in Phoenix but it is not one that comes without risks. Unfortunately, every year, car accidents and pedestrian collisions take place and involve light rail trains and the increase in train traffic along 19th Avenue will be associated with an increased risk of train incidents happening nearby.
When an accident happens involving a light rail train, it can cause injuries to passengers on board the train, employees working on the train, drivers and passengers in a car that is hit by the train, pedestrians struck by the train, or even bicyclists or motorcyclists who are involved in the collision. Victims of these crashes are often entitled with the right to seek relief for their injuries and damages but they must do so within a time period specified by law or they will be barred from making a recovery.
The facts of any particular incident can determine the length of time someone has to make a claim, so if you were a victim of a traffic accident or a collision with a train, you may wish to speak with a personal injury attorney to fully understand your legal rights, obligations, and options.
The team at Abels & Annes, P.C. is comprised solely of personal injury lawyers who fight for the best possible outcome in every case they handle. We offer a case consultation without cost or obligation to all victims who call us toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191 and we have an attorney available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to speak with you.
If you have questions or if you need help, call Abels & Annes, P.C. now and let our team fight for your right to a recovery.
Prior Blog Entry:
School Bus Accidents Claim an Average of 19 Children’s Lives Each Year, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published March 18, 2016.
Resource:
Northwest light rail extension opens in Phoenix Saturday, by Breanna Goth, The Republic, azcentral.com, published March 18, 2016.