A San Francisco car accident involving a Muni Metro train on February 18, 2010 resulting in five injuries was caused by "human error," Muni officials said. The San Francisco Chronicle reports that a J-Church light-rail vehicle doing 39 mph, rear-ended an F-Market historic streetcar on San Jose Avenue near Highland Avenue. Thankfully, none of the injuries was life-threatening.
It is indeed fortunate that no one sustained major injuries. I wish all who were injured in this crash the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Accident Caused by Operator Error
If the details of this news report are accurate, officials are not releasing details other than this was caused by the driver. We do not know whether the driver, apparently a 30-year-veteran of the Muni system, was under the influence. We do not know whether he was distracted, driving recklessly or otherwise negligent at the time of the collision. Also investigators say they are having a tough time determining exactly what happened because the video camera on the J-Church train wasn't functioning at the time. This is certainly not the first train accident involving Muni vehicles. In fact, there have been several accidents involving Muni vehicles over the last year or so.
Claim for Compensation
Victims in this case could seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization and other related damages. As a passenger on a bus, light rail train, street car or any such vehicle that was involved in an accident, the transit company, whether public or private, owes you the "duty of utmost care" associated with being a common carrier. This "duty of utmost care" is higher than the negligence duty owed by the bus company to drivers of other vehicles and pedestrians.
An experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer will be able to explain to victims their legal rights and options in such cases and make sure they are fairly compensated for their injuries, damages and losses. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
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