The Metrolink commuter train crash on September 12th in the Chatsworth area of Los Angeles killed 26 people and injured over 130 more. It’s now considered the country’s deadliest train crash in 15 years, and the worst part is that it could have been prevented had a collision warning system been in place.
In fact, the National Transportation Safety Board has pushed the rail industry for years to implement warning systems, known as positive train control. A member of the board said such a system would have slowed, if not stopped, the commuter train before it crashed head-on into a Union Pacific freight train after failing to heed a red signal.
Additional factors that could have contributed to the crash include:
• Conductor distraction – federal investigators are looking into reports that the conductor was text messaging just prior to the fatal accident
• The train and track equipment—whether or not they were properly functioning
• Dispatch – investigators are evaluating the role of dispatchers who control train traffic
Victims’ Legal Rights
This tragedy could have been avoided and more than two dozen lives saved. Negligent parties can be held responsible for the significant damages victims and their families have suffered. You may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages if you:
• Suffered injuries (physical and/or emotional) in the crash
• Lost a spouse, parent, child or other family member in the crash
However, the time you have to file a claim is limited, so contact us today to discuss your legal rights.