Pedestrian Killed in Los Angeles Train Accident
A woman was fatally injured in a Los Angeles train accident after she was struck by a Metro Blue Line train the afternoon of February 19, 2010, the Los Angeles Times reports. Los Angeles fire officials said the fatal pedestrian accident occurred in the 1700 block of East Century Boulevard when a woman became trapped under a train. She died at the scene. Officials say the woman was trying to cross the tracks. But it's not clear exactly how or why she was hit.
I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved this deceased victim. Her grieving family will be in my prayers.
Los Angeles Pedestrian Accidents
There were 104 fatalities and 2,716 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in the city of Los Angeles, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, 214 deaths and 4,985 injuries were reported as a result of pedestrian accidents in 2008.
Causes and Liability Issues?
It's not clear, based on this news article, why the woman tried to walk on to the tracks when there was a train crossing. There is the possibility that the woman tried to hurry across the tracks before the train came on. However, I wonder whether there was any negligence or error on the part of the train operator. Did the train operator sound the horn as the train approached the crossing? Was there a crossing arm, signage or lights to warn pedestrians about approaching trains at this crossing? I trust investigators are looking closely at these and other issues.
If this accident was the result of an operator error, then the transit authority can be held liable for the woman's death. If this accident occurred due to a dangerous condition such as missing signage or safety features such as crossing arms, lights or bells, then the railroad can be held liable for the accident as well. The best Los Angeles personal injury lawyers will always offer a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation to injured victims and their families.
We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not a fault" persons named in this article and their family members.
