When a driver agrees to transport a passenger, the driver then owes a duty of care to that person to keep the individual safe on the road. In addition to obeying laws and paying attention to traffic, drivers with passengers must also take weather factors into consideration to avoid car accidents. Sadly, one Pennsylvania woman was recently killed after the driver she was riding with crashed the car into a train during a snowstorm.
Officials said that the two women were on their way to work when the collision occurred. As the SUV began downhill near the train tracks, the driver was unable to stop. The vehicle crashed through the gate and struck the passing train. The driver was able to exit the SUV before it hit the train, but the passenger was not.
The victim was ejected from the vehicle and onto the tracks on impact. Tragically, she died at the scene. The driver was treated for minor injures. Police are continuing to investigate the accident, but believe that the snowy conditions contributed to the incident. It is unknown at this time whether the driver will face any charges.
When individuals are injured in car accidents, they may choose to file personal injury claims against the party or parties believed to be responsible. Similarly, surviving families of deceased victims may choose to file wrongful death claims on behalf of their loved ones. When these claims successfully prove negligence, claimants could then be awarded monetary damages that can be used to help pay for medical bills, funeral costs or any other related expenses. Experienced Pennsylvania attorneys can assist anyone interested in learning more about these types of claims.
Source: 6abc.com, “Woman on way to work killed when car strikes SEPTA train in Lower Moreland, West Trenton Regional Rail suspended“, Jan. 5, 2018