Los Angeles, CA (November 7, 2023) One person was seriously injured after their vehicle was struck by a train on Sunday evening, November 5th. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the accident took place at approximately 7:30 p.m. on the 5300 block of South Long Beach Avenue.
A Metro Blue Line Train was heading down the tracks in the Central-Alameda neighborhood of Los Angeles, when it hit a car that was on the tracks, according to the authorities. The force of the collision caused the car to be pushed over onto its side, trapping the driver inside. As the train pushed the car down the tracks, it hit and damaged a fence.
Crews from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the scene to find a completely totaled vehicle on its side with the driver trapped. Fire fighters were able to free the driver and paramedics rushed him to the nearest hospital with critical injuries.
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Witnesses at the scene reported seeing Metro crews working on the damaged fence while emergency personnel aided the driver of the vehicle and evaluated passengers on the train. One passenger on the train was injured and evaluated by paramedics, but refused to be taken to the hospital.
The train remained on the tracks during the collision, but the Blue Line between Slauson and Vernon stations was closed in both directions following the collision. Police officers and fire fighters had to investigate and clean the area.
Shuttle buses were sent to pick up passengers and take them to the next train station.
Officers are still unsure as to why the car was on the tracks when a train was coming and are currently investigating this violent accident to determine what exactly happened.
Liability In Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to those injured in this collision. 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 Los Angeles car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers 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.