Whether in city traffic or at junctions, trams are a particular challenge for many road users. As they cannot swerve, have a long braking distance and almost always have priority according to road traffic regulations, drivers, cyclists or pedestrians often bear the brunt of the blame in the event of an accident - and therefore also the financial consequences.
In this article, you will learn how to avoid accidents on the tram, how liability is regulated in the event of damage and what you should do if you get into a tram accident through no fault of your own.
- The main cause of tram accidents is traffic offences committed by other road users.
- Accidents involving trams are particularly frequent at junctions.
- By paying attention, you have a good chance of avoiding a tram accident.
- According to road traffic regulations, trams generally have priority over other road users.
- If you are involved in an accident with a tram through no fault of your own, the insurance company of the respective transport company must always pay.
- We at fairforce.one will be happy to help you with claims settlement after a road accident that was not your fault.
What can cause an accident involving a tram?
Accidents between road users and trams are particularly frequent at junctions. There are many reasons for this. We have listed some common causes for you:
- Infringement of the right of way rules
- Carelessness of road users
- Crossing the road even though it is busy
- Running a red light
- Too little distance from the tram
- Parking too close to the tracks
Pedestrians, motorists and cyclists are often very seriously injured in these accidents. However, accidents involving trams are also mainly caused by these three groups. The accident is rarely caused by the tram driver himself.
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How can an accident involving a tram be avoided?
Mindfulness is the keyword! Because trams are very heavy and run on rails, they cannot swerve and have very long braking distances. Therefore, never cross the tracks without making sure that there are no trams in sight. Also avoid distractions such as your smartphone or loud music at all costs. Do not underestimate the speed of the tram and, to be on the safe side, let it pass before you cross the tracks.
What measures should be taken after the accident?
After a tram accident, the usual steps for accident prevention must be taken. You must
- secure the scene of the accident,
- inform the police,
- Call the emergency services and administer first aid to injured persons
- and report the accident to the insurance company. We will be happy to help you with this.
Read 5 tips on what you should definitely do after an accident here.
Do trams always have right of way?
The regulations on right of way are governed by the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). According to the StVO, trams always have right of way.
Sections 2 and 9 of the StVO stipulate that rail vehicles - including trams - must always be given priority.
Good to know: When motor vehicles have to cross the railway tracks when turning, trams have right of way for cars even if the traffic lights are green.
Even though trams always have priority, the question arises as to who is at fault in the event of an accident involving a tram. Very often, road users such as car drivers, pedestrians or cyclists are at fault because they disregard the right-of-way rules of the StVO. However, in individual cases, the tram driver or the transport company can also be held partly responsible or jointly liable for the accident. This is always the case if the tram driver acts in a disorderly or negligent manner. If the question of fault cannot be If the accident is finally clarified, liability can also be shared between the parties involved in the accident.
Even if the tram driver is often not at fault for the accident, you should not be too quick to incriminate yourself or even admit guilt at the scene of the accident. If you contact us instead, our experts will give you an initial assessment of the question of fault within a very short time.
Use the free of charge and without obligation Initial assessment of fairforce.one
Who pays in the event of a car accident with a tram?
As the tram generally has priority, as a car driver you can always be accused of having disregarded this priority. This is why car drivers, pedestrians and cyclists are usually liable. If you have been injured, your own health insurance will pay. However, you are not entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. If people were also injured on the tram, they can make claims against you as the person responsible for the accident.
If you are involved in an accident through no fault of your own, the insurance company of the respective transport company will usually have to pay for your damages.
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Frequently asked questions about tram accidents
Do trams always have right of way?
As a rule, yes. According to § 2 and § 9 of the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), rail vehicles have priority over other road users - even when turning or at junctions, even if the traffic lights are green for motorists.
Who is at fault in a tram accident?
The main blame often lies with the car driver, pedestrian or cyclist if they disregard the right of way of the tram. In individual cases, however, the tram driver may also be partially at fault - for example, in the event of excessive speed or lack of attention.
Does the insurance pay in the event of a tram accident?
If you caused the accident, your motor vehicle liability insurance is usually liable. If you are involved through no fault of your own, the insurance company of the transport company or tram is liable for your damages.
What do I have to do after a tram accident?
Secure the accident site, call the emergency number (112) if anyone is injured and inform the police. Document the accident, take photos and exchange contact details with witnesses. A medical examination is also advisable - even for minor complaints.
Can I claim compensation for pain and suffering if I have been injured by a tram?
Yes - if you are not at fault or only partially at fault. In this case, you are entitled to compensation for pain and suffering as well as reimbursement of treatment costs, loss of earnings or other accident-related damages.
