Train Derailment Kills 4 and Critically Injures 11

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Train Derailment Kills 4 and Critically Injures 11

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

On Sunday, a tragic train accident occurred in a northern suburb of New York City. The results of the accident is devastating news for all to hear and the Chicago attorneys at the Law Offices of Steven J. Malman give our deepest sympathy to the victims and their families. Unfortunately, 4 persons were killed and another 11 are in critical condition according to officials.

According to Reuters, law-enforcement reports stated that the driver of the New York commuter train told investigators he “lost focus” and went into a daze slightly before the crash occurred. The train driver had navigated the same route during previous shifts; however had recently taken on the earlier shift.

Investigators said that the train was traveling at 82 miles per hour, nearly three times the 30-mph (48-kph) speed limit for the curved section of track where it crashed. The trains brakes were only put on moments before the curve, and the Federal Railroad Administration said that it takes about a quarter-mile to a half-mile to stop a train going at a speed of 82 miles per hour.

The accident is still under investigation, but authorities are reviewing cell phone use to check for distracted driving and are also waiting on tests to check for drug or alcohol usage. According to the train company, the driver of the train “is totally traumatized by everything that has happened.”

If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, call the Law Offices of Steven J. Malman today to learn about your legal rights.