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Many questions exist in deadly Pennsylvania train accident

Accidents are scary, no matter the type of accident that one in unfortunate enough to be apart of. However, when commuting by plane or a train, the likelihood of an accident occurring is substantially less than when getting behind the wheel of a car because statistically car accidents happen more regularly. Sadly, though, a recent train accident right here in Pennsylvania has reminded us all of how devastating these rare accidents can be.

On Tuesday, May 12, 2015, an Amtrak derailment occurred that killed eight passengers to date and injured many more. According to early reports and investigation by authorities, the train – on its way from Washington, D.C. to Boston — was allegedly speeding at the time of accident. While traveling northbound on this particular route, there is a rather intense curve where the train is only supposed to run at about 50 mph.

Based on preliminary investigation, the train appears to have actually been going over 100 mph around this particular curve, which likely played a role in the train going airborne and jumping the track. As such, preliminarily, speeding was labelled a major cause for the accident.

Understandably, the first concern of those involved is to begin the physical and mental recovery process. However, there will come a time when things such as medical bills or lost wages due to time away from work will start to weigh on those affected by such a tragic accident. When negligence plays a role in an accident, it may be possible to seek compensation for the types of expenses necessary for recovery.

However, similar to accidents involving trucks, it is important to understand what parties are involved so that victims can seek the right remedies. As the investigation continues, more information will likely come to light that may provide further clarity into the events that led to this unfortunate accident.

Source: The New York Times, “Amtrak Train Derailed Going 106 M.P.H. on Sharp Curve; at Least 7 Killed,” Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Jad Mouawad, and Emma G. Fitzsimmons, May 13, 2015

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