Trams run on rails, which means that they cannot swerve to avoid accidents. This in turn means that, without stringent safety and accident avoidance measures, they will sometimes collide with other vehicles.
Are Tram accidents on the rise?
According to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR):
- during 2014-2015 the number of non-mainline accidents in the UK rose from 24 to 110,
- This rise was partly "because of improved reporting in the tramway" in line with new RIDDOR regulations.
- It also reflected increased tramway usage caused by the extension of the Manchester Metrolink, a development which ORR said "increased the likelihood of tram-road vehicle collisions".
What are recent examples of tram accidents?
- There was a crash between a tram and a bus in Edinburgh's West End in August 2014. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but similar incidents can easily result in more serious consequences for those involved.
- A cyclist in Manchester was killed in February 2016 as a result of a collision with a Metrolink tram. Peter Cushing, director of Transport for Greater Manchester's Metrolink, stated that his organisation would conduct a "thorough operational investigation."
- Another relatively recent tram accident occurred in Dublin in 2009, resulting in 21 people being transported to a hospital after a collision between a tram and a bus. Another Dublin tram accident in April 2014 resulted in a pedestrian's death.
Crashes like these often also lead to injuries for passengers inside the tram—mainly because they are thrown around by the force of the collision—and they, just like injured parties in other vehicles involved, have a right to seek compensation for their injuries.
David Adams
David Adams
"I think it's important when you're involved in a traffic case that when the incident happens, you're obtaining all the information that you can at the scene."
Why should I choose Thompsons for my claim?
If you have been injured in an accident involving a tram and think that you may have a claim for compensation it will help to have expert advice from a personal injury claims lawyer who understands the issues particular to tram accidents.
Thinking about a claim for compensation? Speak with a professional on 0800 0891 331.
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