A 57-year-old Metrolink passenger's hand was severed in an Orange County train accident after he fell off a platform and onto the tracks the morning of February 8, 2010 in Laguna Niguel. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the northbound Metrolink train dragged the man as it pulled out of Forbes Road station. The train cut off the man's left hand at the wrist and dragged him for a short distance on the tracks. The man is expected to survive. However, he was transported to a hospital to be treated for the amputation.
My heart goes out to this man for the pain and suffering he has endured. Losing one's hand is a catastrophic injury – an injury that will affect a person for the rest of his or her life. I wish this injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep him in your prayers.
What Caused this Accident?
Based on this news report, it appears that officials are still looking into how exactly the passenger fell on to the tracks as the train was stopped at the station. The train then began to move as the man was on the tracks. He was then dragged by the train for about 87 feet. It is important to determine here, how or why the horrific accident occurred. How did the man fall on the tracks in the first place? Why did the train start moving? Why did the conductor not notice the man had slipped? Did the conductor perform a complete inspection and follow all procedures to make sure no one was in the process of getting off the train or boarding it?
Who is Liable?
If this accident occurred as a result of negligence on the part of the train's conductor or engineer, the injured victim in this case could file a personal injury claim against Metrolink. In such cases, victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation and other related damages. In this catastrophic injury accident, lost future earnings may also be claimed if the loss of a hand prevents this individual from returning to his job. Victims in such cases, would be well-advised to consult with an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer who will ensure that they receive fair compensation for their injuries, damages and losses.
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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