In Philadelphia, an Amtrak train crashed and killed seven people. Over 200 passengers were injured. Investigators are trying to determine why the train derailed while rounding a curve. The speed limit just before the curve is 70 mph. The speed limit on the curve is 50 mph. One source claims it is believed the train was traveling in excess of 100 mph, which is about twice the 50 mph speed limit for the curve it was in.
The train was carrying 238 passengers and five crew members. The Federal Railroad Administration claims Amtrak had inspected tracks in Philadelphia hours before the derailment and had found no defects. The train was headed from Washington to New York City, which is one of the busiest rail corridors. Investigations will include focusing on the train’s event data recorder, video recordings, track signals, train operation, the conductor’s actions, and condition of the rails, rail ties and train cars. The data recorder has been recovered. The engineer of the derailed train has been interviewed by the Philadelphia Police Department.
When someone is injured or dies as a result of an accident, financial recovery may be available. Such recovery is particularly important when permanent, life changing injuries are incurred. It is important to contact someone who understands the intricacies of the injured party’s right to recover.
Abraham Watkins offers a free consultation to anyone wishing to pursue a claim for injuries that occurred as a result of an accident.