California Injury Blog
At least 16 people were injured in a Metrolink train accident in Los Angeles when a commuter train carrying 187 passengers struck a box truck According to a news report in the Los Angeles Times, the collision occurred the morning of September 6, 2016 when a Metrolink train heading south toward Los Angeles on the Antelope Valley line struck a tractor-trailer sitting on the tracks. The train had just pulled out of the Sun Valley station and was moving at about 15 to 20 mph when it struck the truck.
No Life Threatening Injuries
After the crash, 16 passengers requested medical attention triggering a large-scale response, but no one suffered life-threatening injuries. The train’s passengers were aboard six cars when the collision occurred. Ironically September is Rail Safety Month. Officials are using this incident to remind Los Angeles County residents that if they are stuck on the tracks they should call the phone number posted at the rail crossing to notify a railroad officials.
The crossing at Sunland and San Fernando, where this collision occurred, has seen nearly 15 crashes including this week’s, since Metrolink began operating in 1993, according to the Times database. This intersection is equipped with flashing lights and red and white gate arms that lower when a train approaches. Roughly 27 trains pass through the crossing every day. CNBC reported that a crossing guard arm appeared to have been snapped at that crossing. The investigation is still ongoing.
We are relieved to note that there were no critical injuries in this collision. We wish the injured victims the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Injuries and Compensation
Collisions on train tracks can be deadly not only for the occupants of the other vehicles, but also train passengers. When a commuter train derails or collides with a vehicle on the tracks, the impact causes passengers to get thrown about the compartment or even get ejected, causing catastrophic or even fatal injuries. Some of the common injuries suffered in these types of train accidents include head trauma, spinal cord injuries, broken bones and internal organ injuries.
If you have been injured in a Metrolink train accident in Los Angeles, you may be eligible to receive compensation for the injuries, damages and losses you have sustained include medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitative treatment, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will fight to protect their rights and help them receive maximum compensation for their losses.