Injured On Amtrak 501

On December 18, 2017, at least three people were killed and more than 100 injured when an Amtrak passenger train derailed in Washington state.

What Happened

Amtrak 501 made the maiden voyage traveling from North of Seattle south to Eugene, Oregon. As the train came to a curve in the train track that cross I-5 near DuPont, Washington, the train derailed. The derailment sent several cars into the woods and others onto the interstate.

Sources say that the train was traveling over 70 miles per hour prior to derailment. Amtrak President & Co-CEO Richard Anderson said “Positive Train Control” was not activated on the tracks when the derailment happened. PTC is a method that would slow the train down if it sensed the train was traveling at an unsafe speed. There were concerns expressed that trains traveling at that speed would likely experience difficulties.

What Can Be Done?

This much is safe to say, Amtrak should have thoroughly tested the route prior to allowing passengers onboard. The situation is still under heavy investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board at this point it isn’t 100% clear what caused the derailment. However, it is likely that the accident could have been prevented by proper precautions Amtrak could and should have taken.

Those who have lost loved ones or who have had loved ones injured in the accident are encouraged to seek proper legal guidance. If someone has been injured due to the negligence of others he or she should not have to pay for their medical expenses. Khan Injury Law has a proven record of representing the injured and their families.