On December 18, 2017, an Amtrak train derailed near DuPont, Washington. The Amtrak train was making its inaugural run on the Point Defiance Bypass; the route was supposed to save 10 minutes off the trip. After the train derailed, three people were killed and dozens were injured. Timmy Brodigan broke his neck during the accident. He now requires a wheelchair to get around.
Brodigan has sued Amtrak, Sound Transit, and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and alleged that the transportation system was rushed into service before it was ready. He has also alleged that the train was going 80 miles per hour around a curve, when it should have been traveling at 30 miles per hour where it derailed. Additionally, Brodigan has claimed that Sound Transit was aware that because of the curve on that route, and before the derailment, Positive Train Control could have provided protection against the derailment. Positive Train Control is technology that is designed to stop a train before certain types of accidents occur. Positive Train Control was not installed on the train. Brodigan is now seeking treatment at Craig Hospital in Denver, a world-renowned facility that specializes in spinal cord injuries.
When someone is injured or dies in a collision, 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 such injuries or fatalities.