Are Trains a Safer Commuting Alternative?

Traffic is continuously getting worse in the Greater Los Angeles area. More and more Angelinos are opting to take the train to avoid the stress, traffic and dangers of getting into an accident. But the question becomes if travelling by train is as safe as most of us think it is.

Train fatalities may not be as common as they once were, but they still happen. One of the most recent accidents that have ruffled many feathers are the Amtrak derailment in Washington State in December 2017 and the pedestrian death that happened in January 2018. According to the U.S. national Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the December accident topped $40.4 million, killing three and injuring 70. This tragedy could have been avoided if a safety technology system known as positive train control had been operational.

These are only a few of the most serious accidents that have occurred over the last few years. The Federal Railroad Administration reports that there were more than 10,000 train accidents were reported in 2016 alone. These reports show that train accidents are not something of the past, but are still happening today.

Preparing For a Possible Train Accident

As a motorist, our instincts will make us slam on the breaks and at least attempt to swerve out of the way of oncoming traffic in order to avoid an accident. However, as a train passenger, we have zero control over what happens. The only thing we can do is to be prepared in the event of an accident while riding on a train.

Below are some important tips to keep in mind to help you survive a train accident:

• Try not to sit in the front car of a train – the safest car to ride in is generally one or two from the back.
• Sit facing forward to avoid getting flung out of your seat in the event the train comes to a sudden stop.
• If the train has a café, it is best not to linger too long there.
• Avoid sitting near windows.
• Follow any directions given by the captain or crew members.
• Escape using a window or emergency exit in the event of an accident.

Call an Experienced Los Angeles Train Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a train accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your medical bills, loss of income, loss of earning capacity and pain and suffering. You should also consult with an experienced Los Angeles train accident attorney to help you get the full compensation that you deserve.

For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, please call the Law Offices of Samer Habbas at (888) 848-5084.