BRENTWOOD, CA (June 27, 2022) – Three people were killed in an Amtrak accident as the train collided into a car, veered off the tracks, then struck another car.
East Bay Times reports that the accident occurred on Sunday around 1 p.m. as a car pulled into a rural driveway near Orwood Road and Bixler Road. The car was at a private crossing with no railroad crossing next to it, says the Times.
Battalion Chief Craig Auzenne of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District reports that three women over the age of 50 were killed in the tragic accident. Two men and a child were hospitalized with severe injuries as a result of the Amtrak accident.
The crash occurred just 300 feet from a fundraiser that was being held for a Brentwood family who had lost a loved one who had passed about a week ago.
Fatima Jimenez, who was there to mourn at the event, said that attendees had fainted upon hearing the news of the deadly Amtrak accident nearby. Upon hearing the crash, Jiminez ran outside and found two women lying dead on the road. She helped pull a man from the impacted car as well.
No one on the train was injured according to reports, although the train line was closed down as investigators were on the scene to gather information.
Liability In Brentwood Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Brentwood Amtrak Train Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers extend our deepest condolences to the families of the women slain in this accident. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Brentwood Amtrak Train accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.