Earlier this week, the family members of a woman who died while riding on the DC Metro filed a lawsuit against Metro Transit Agency, seeking $50 million for their loss. Back on January 12, there was an unusual accident on the DC Metro near the L’Enfant Plaza stop when a train suddenly came to a halt and then filled with smoke.
According to one local news report, some of the occupants on the train were trapped in the smoke-filled cabin for 45 minutes before emergency responders were on the scene. The deceased woman, whose family recently filed suit, was one of those passengers.
Evidently, the lawsuit claims that the ventilation fans in the subway tunnel did not work properly and that the accident was “completely foreseeable” given their state of repair.
The smoke, which was created by an electrical malfunction, made 12 people seriously ill and was responsible for the woman’s death. Metro Transit Agency is conducting an investigation into what caused the electrical malfunction that released the fatal smoke. An outside investigation is also likely taking place.
Public Transit Accidents in the DC Area
Public and private transportation agencies alike have a duty to safely operate their vehicles and transport their passengers from point A to point B. When it comes to modes of mass transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways, there is the possibility for a huge number of injuries or deaths when an error or accident occurs. It is therefore critically important that the utmost care is taken when operating these vehicles.
Despite the massive risk potential in public transit, we frequently see public-transit accidents in the DC metro area that are caused by a lack of care on the part of the operator. In some cases, such as the case described above, the negligence is on the part of the transit authority. These are typically due to a failure to maintain vehicles, bus stations, or subway platforms. In any case, the victims of an accident caused by someone’s negligence are entitled to receive monetary compensation for their injuries.
In most cases involving alleged negligence on the part of a transit agency, the agency will fight the allegations. To ensure that you stand a good chance of recovering what you deserve, contact a dedicated Washington DC injury attorney.
Have You Been Injured in a DC Public Transit Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in any kind of accident involving public transportation, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. However, keep in mind that these large transit agencies often have teams of attorneys on call to defend them against all allegations. Therefore, you should ensure that you are also well-represented throughout the process. To learn more about the laws of negligence in Washington DC, and to speak to an attorney about your case, call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with an attorney today.
More Blog Posts:
Peanut Plant Responsible for Multiple Deaths Due to Salmonella Contamination, Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog, October 9, 2014
New Report Finds over 60 Virginia Children Have Died in Daycare Facilities Since 2004, Lack of Oversight Blamed, Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog, September 4, 2014
One Dead, Dozens Injured in DC Metro Smoke Incident, Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog, January 16, 2014