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Personal injury, youclaim.co.uk

Railway accidents and wheelchair users on trains

People who rely on a wheelchair for mobility will, like everyone else, sometimes need to catch the train, as such it is vital that train operators have plans and services in place to protect the health and safety of wheelchair users in the event of a railway accident.

Most trains in Britain, with the exception of some historical and novelty railways, are able to accommodate wheelchair users.

However, there are some restrictions on the type of wheelchair which can be taken onto most trains. For example, the maximum weight of a wheelchair and its user (combined) is usually between 230kg and 300kg.

This is because most wheelchair ramps are only able to withstand weights that fall within these limits.

In the event that a person and his or her wheelchair exceeds this limit, the train operator must be contacted in advance of the journey to see if alternative arrangements can be made – in no circumstances should a member of staff lift the wheelchair user as, without suitable training, the risk of an accident and subsequent injury is too high.

Most trains will have a special area reserved for the use of wheelchair users, in the interests of the safety of both them and other passengers using the service.

Powered scooters
Travelling by powered scooter is more complicated, not least because of the wide variation in size, shape and weight of powered scooters. As such train companies should be contacted 24 hours in advance of a journey for information and assistance.

Claim compensation for train accident injuries
If you have suffered injury as a result of a railway accident, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your pain, suffering and losses.

Whether your injuries are a result of a derailment, a slip or trip accident, a collision or another circumstance, our team of dedicated personal injury solicitors can help you secure the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Win or lose, here at YouClaim we guarantee a completely charge-free service.

In addition, we never take a cut – our 100% compensation promise.

For advice from one of our team, call 0800 10 757 95 or the mobile-friendly 0333 240 0871.

Alternatively, use E-chat for only help from an advisor.