Train Crash in Chicago Injures Dozens of Passengers

Monday, October 7, 2013

Train Crash in Chicago Injures Dozens of Passengers

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

At the end of September in Chicago, Blue Line riders on the CTA had an early morning shake up when an unmanned, empty train rolled east on the tracks, slamming into a westbound train on the same rails. It was estimated that the “runaway” train was running at about 20 miles per hour when it hit the other train, and although no one was seriously injured, more than 30 people were taken to area hospitals. Though only one lawsuit has been filed so far, it wouldn’t be surprising if more are filed in the coming weeks.

Recklessness or Negligence?

Whether the accident was caused by a rogue, reckless person who set the train in motion or was just a freak accident caused by potential negligence in setting up precautions that would stop this sort of accident from happening, the outcome was still the same—the trains hit each other and people got injured.  An investigation pointed to the accident being caused by a mechanical failure. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured or killed, but those who had to go to the hospital may still consider suing the city or the CTA over the accident.

How to Handle Train Accident Cases

Train accidents are unique in that there are often plenty of people who get hurt in them, leading to plenty of people filing claims against the responsible parties. Medical bills still need to be paid, and in cases like this Chicago accident, these people may want compensation for their hospital visits. It’s a completely understandable concept, to want to be reimbursed for medical bills that you incurred from an accident that was no fault of your own. For that reason, train accident lawyers have the experience necessary to fight for the rights of the injured parties. They’ll help you get the reimbursement you deserve after being involved in a train accident.