Let us say that you suffered a concussion when one of the iconic New Orleans streetcars collided with your small car.
The streetcar has the right of way, but that does not mean that the streetcar operator is never at fault for an accident.
Reporting accidents
Transdev, which manages the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority, must submit streetcar accident reports for every 100,000 miles traveled each year. The National Transit Database records such information, so we know that in 2016, for example, 114 collisions involved New Orleans streetcars. Transdev also calculates whether a collision was avoidable based on the type of training given to streetcar operators. If an accident was “preventable,” the operator must complete a retraining program.
About concussions
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury. Although it is often associated with sports, such as football, a concussion often results from a vehicle accident, even one that occurs at a low speed. For example, your side collision with a slow-moving streetcar caused a concussion because your head hit the driver’s side window. Depending on the severity of the injury, a concussion can leave you with sensory and motor function issues, memory problems and more.
Frequent happenings
Streetcar drivers must be constantly alert. In addition to cars and trucks, they must look for pedestrians and bicycle riders who may cross their path. Drivers who are tourists or otherwise new to city traffic that includes streetcars are at risk for an accident with injuries. However, sometimes, a collision is truly unavoidable due to poor weather, road construction and other “perfect storm” circumstances.
Seeking help
If you suffered a concussion in a collision, whether with a New Orleans streetcar or any other type of vehicle, your first step is to seek prompt medical attention. Your next step is to explore your legal options. A thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident will begin. If a streetcar operator was negligent, you may be entitled to receive full and fair compensation for your injury.
