During the end of 2011, rider statistics for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) totaled nearly 1.5 million per weekday. As of November of 2011, the system had seen its third straight month of more than 1.3 million riders. State officials conclude that 2011 was the busiest year on the books since 2008.
MBTA General Manager Jonathan Davis says that the average weekday ridership was a near 6 percent increase from that time during the year before. That was also the second-largest increase in the last 40 months. Unfortunately, more riders mean more risks for MBTA accidents in Boston and elsewhere. Riders are still encouraged to take advantage of the convenient transportation system, but to please do so responsibly.
Our Massachusetts MBTA accident lawyers understand that the largest spike in the number of riders happened in July of 2011, when we saw a 7 percent increase. As we plow through 2012, riders are asked to be careful as the number of riders is expected to continue increasing. As the system is used by more and more people, the equipment is forced to work harder. It’s critical for the Transportation Authority to keep these vessels in top-notch shape to protect riders. Operators should also be qualified to help ensure the safety of riders.
According to Davis, more and more people are taking advantage of the system because it is catering to the modern-day traveler’s needs. The MBTA now has applications available on smartphones that allow customers to see when the next train or bus is coming. Davis also credits the state’s growing economy for the increase. More people are heading back to work and require a quick and efficient way to get there.
Davis said the growth speaks to an expanding economy, which means more jobs. That creates a higher demand for MBTA service, whether that is to transport them to work or the doctor’s office or to shopping and entertainment.
Last year, November marked the 10th consecutive month of climbing ridership. Officials believe this trend will continue through the rest of the year. The transportation system only saw a decrease in January 2011 with a decrease of less than 3 percent.
The T saw its busiest year in 2008. During this time, there was an annual increase of more than 4 percent in ridership.
Davis says that as the economy continues to recover and continues to strengthen, we can expect the need for MBTA services to increase as well.
Right now, the MBTA is facing more than a $160 million deficit for the fiscal year that starts in July of 2012. MBTA officials are still talking fare hikes to help make up for the shrinking budget. The last time that T fares were raised was back in 2007.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an MBTA accident, contact Boston Injury Lawyer Jeffrey S. Glassman for a free and confidential appointment to discuss your case. Call 877-617-5333.
More Blog Entries:
Seven Passengers in Hospital after Massachusetts Bus Accident, Boston Personal Injury Attorney Blog, July 18, 2011
Report on Boston MBTA accident due soon; text-messaging driver believed responsible, Boston Personal Injury Attorney Blog, November 11, 2010