Failure to Learn From Mistakes: A Recurring Spot for Train Accidents

A train accident is always terrifying. Whenever a large machine like a train collides with anything, be it a car or another train, the risk of significant injury is always high. Forty-two people were injured on August 22nd, 2017, when a high-speed commuter train struck a parked train in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. Witnesses reported seeing blood everywhere and a scene of chaos.

What makes this accident in some ways more terrifying than usual is the same thing happened in the same place just six months earlier. On February 22nd, 2017, a train hit two parked train cars, causing multiple injuries and backing up traffic for hours. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority) promised a full accounting and changes in policy to address the incident, and yet six months later it happened again.

Clearly, safety has not been enough of a priority for SEPTA. One accident is somewhat forgivable dependent upon the circumstances and can help identify where problems lie. Accidents do happen. But to have the same event occur after those issues should have dealt with is patently unacceptable, and it is no longer an accident when the authorities should clearly know better.

The full extent of injuries is not yet known, and dependent upon the types of injuries suffered might not be known for months. Some injuries, such as whiplash, can take months to become fully symptomatic. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating, a process that could take months to supply any answers for those who are suffering.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a train accident, it is important that proper protocols are put in place to keep the same thing from happening again. Holding the transportation authorities responsible for their actions is often the only way to effect meaningful change. Please, retain an experienced attorney who can help you press for those changes, and for the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries.