The number of train versus vehicle collisions have increased in Phoenix in recent years since the creation of the light rail, which installed tracks in areas previously unknown to rail travel but now used by both the trains and vehicles. Most of the time, cars and the light rail can occupy the same streets harmoniously with trains receiving the right-of-way and with vehicles allowed to cross the tracks when train traffic is not present. However, collisions between these two types of travel do happen and when they occur, injuries almost always result.
Phoenix train accident lawyers understand that trains are large, heavy vehicles that need distance to stop or slow effectively, meaning that if a car crosses immediately in front of the head car, a train may not be able to avoid a collision. Similarly, if a train is speeding, fails to signal, or if warning lights and gates along roads malfunction, a collision with a car may occur that is due to no negligence on the part of the car’s driver.
Unfortunately a collision between an SUV and a light rail train took place on Wednesday in Phoenix at a street level crossing near Central and Roosevelt. Witnesses say that it appeared the driver of the SUV, described only as a 57-year-old adult, ran a red light and entered the crossing as the light rail approached. The train struck the SUV with force great enough to throw several train passengers forward, injuring two and sending them to the hospital for medical treatment. In addition to the SUV’s driver, a pregnant passenger was injured and was also transported for medical care with emergency personnel expecting all victims to survive.
Those at the scene agreed that the injuries, especially to those in the SUV, could have been much worse, particularly with a view of the significant damage done to the vehicle by the collision.
Anytime an accident results in injuries, Arizona law may allow the victims to bring a financial claim for their damages against those responsible for the collision, including a negligent driver or drivers, if they exist. These claims can seek financial compensation for any injuries incurred, any medical expenses believed to be incurred in the future, lost wages, and other damages forced upon the victim as a result of the collision.
The law provides a potential recovery for anyone who was hurt at the hands of another, including passengers in a vehicle, passengers on a train, or a non-negligent driver. This also includes pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists who are involved in an accident and who sustain injuries as a result.
If you have been hurt in a crash, call the Phoenix train accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free, no obligation telephone consultation about your legal rights and whether you have a claim for your financial losses. We have a dedicated lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call at (602) 819-5191 or toll free at (855) 529-2442 and at Abels & Annes, P.C., we never charge you a fee unless we make a recovery on your behalf. Call us today and let us help you get a recovery you deserve.
Prior Blog Entries:
Suspected Drunk Driver Flees Scene After Glendale Crash, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 14, 2013.
Tucson Teen Dies In Car Crash, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published October 8, 2013.
Resources:
SUV collides with light rail at Central Ave and Roosevelt, MyFoxPhoenix.com, published October 16, 2013.