Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
To many, trains seem like a peaceful way to travel. Their large size and controlled route make the idea of an accident or other kind of transit-related incident seem unlikely in the minds of many as they pass the time on board a train. But unfortunately, thousands of train accidents happen in this country every year and many of them occur in large, urban settings like Chicago. The increased population in these areas means an increased chance of a train system existing, heavier use of that system, and a resulting increase in the possibilities of an accident.
The victims of these crashes often bear no blame in the incident as the majority of victims are the passengers themselves. But regardless of their position within the train, these victims may be left injured and may be in need of medical assistance for weeks, months, or even years to come. In the worst train incidents, one or more individuals may be killed and their families may never be able to heal from that loss. When a train accident happens in Chicago, nothing can erase the suffering experienced by the victims and the family members of those who are hurt or killed, yet relief may be possible to help ease the suffering. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights if a collision has affected your life or has taken your loved one away from you.
A tragic accident happened last evening and claimed the lives of seven people in Philadelphia, according to local authorities. Around 9:30 p.m. local time, an Amtrak train bound for New York derailed and several cars rolled onto their sides, killing seven and injuring more than 200 people of the 243 people on board. There has not yet been word on what caused the train to jump the tracks or whether any mechanical failures or operator errors contributed to this accident as authorities are still sorting through the wreckage in an attempt to clear debris and locate missing passengers.
At this time, portions of the train itself are being removed from the scene with the assistance of a crane and are being relocated so that they can be inspected further during the course of the investigation. Many of the victims who were hurt are still being treated at numerous local hospitals for a variety of injuries and it is believed that at least eight people are still in critical condition.
As the investigation into this incident continues to unfold, officials will determine whether any legal action should be taken against those involved in this collision or whether criminal charges are appropriate.
When victims are injured in train accidents, it can be difficult to know where to turn for relief. If you are in Chicago or you are hurt in the Chicago area, the personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to take your call and to provide you with the help and guidance you need.
We offer all victims a free case consultation without obligation when they call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we will keep everything discussed during the consultation confidential. Unlike some other firms, you can speak with a licensed attorney when you call and we will work around your schedule.
If you have been injured or if your loved one was killed in a train accident, make sure your rights are protected by calling the personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. today.
Prior Blog Entry:
Motorcycle Crash with SUV Kills 1, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published May 13, 2015.
Resource:
Data Recorders Recovered in Amtrak Train Derailment in Philadelphia That Killed 7, by Jon Hurdle and Richard Perez-Pena, The New York Times, published May 13, 2015.