Using public transit to get around can save money, but there are a few dangers you should know about.
Using public transit to get around Columbus, Ohio can save money and help the environment. Unfortunately, it could also expose riders to serious health and safety risks. Issues with the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) in terms of crime, safety, sanitation and accident history could foretell future passenger injuries and deaths in Columbus. Before you put your life in the hands of Columbus public transit, recognize the potential risks and how to minimize them as a passenger.
History of Safety Issues With COTA
Since the early 1970s, residents of Columbus, Ohio have had public transit to rely upon for group transportation. Upon its initial debut, however, the system experienced a run of issues and related bus accidents. In the early 1970s, the city’s public transit system encountered problems that caused several accidents and service shutdowns. By 1974, however, transit authorities said they had worked out the issues.
For the past 40-plus years, the transit authorities have successfully and efficiently overseen 300 buses, as well as more recent vehicles such as rideshare bikes and golf cart shuttles. COTA also released CMAX in January 2018 – a rapid bus transit line. Safety improvements do not, however, mean a perfect system or any safety guarantees for passengers.
COTA Accidents in Ohio
COTA does not have a pristine record in terms of traffic accidents. Drivers who work for city transit are just like other drivers – they can make mistakes that lead to serious accidents. Negligent bus drivers may text and drive, drive distracted, speed, break traffic laws or otherwise cause vehicle accidents. COTA bus accidents have caused serious bus driver, passenger and pedestrian injuries over the years.
Aside from driver error, other issues could also cause bus collisions. Another potential cause of a COTA bus accident is an unsafe or defective bus. If the fleet owner fails to properly inspect or maintain its buses, the buses could experience problems such as bad brakes or broken taillights that contribute to accidents. The entity in charge of COTA bus safety could be liable for accidents involving its buses and/or drivers.
COTA buses fall under government authority. The government, therefore, may be liable for accidents. If someone suffers an injury in a COTA bus crash, the city or state government may have to pay for damages. Bringing a claim against the government involves unique requirements. The deadline to file, for example, is typically much shorter than the normal personal injury statute of limitations in a state. A car accident attorney in Columbus can help a victim file a claim after a COTA accident.
Columbus Crime Rates
Columbus, Ohio has a lower crime rate than the national average. Taking public transportation, however, could increase one’s risk of becoming a victim. Waiting at dimly lit bus stops or walking to the nearest station could lead to an attack such as a mugging, robbery or sexual assault. In 2017, Franklin County received reports of 4,910 violent crimes and 42,878 property crimes. These crimes included 151 murders, 1,028 rapes, 2,148 robberies and 1,583 aggravated assaults. If you rely on Columbus public transportation, travel with a friend and only wait in well-lit areas. Try to travel by day instead of at night, if possible.
Are Buses in Columbus Safe and Sanitary?
Traveling via public transportation in Columbus may run another risk – that of catching a virus or illness from unsanitary buses. Dirty seats, handles and poles could lead to illnesses such as the cold and flu. In addition, unkempt buses may have safety defects such as exposed metal, broken seats and slippery floors that could contribute to premises liability accidents. If you suffer a serious injury because of a dangerous bus defect, COTA may be responsible. Pay attention to your surroundings while using public transit in Columbus to reduce your risk of injury. You may be able to spot and avoid a safety hazard before it causes an accident.