Red line train car was due for replacement – 13 years ago

According to Bloomberg news and other news agencies, one of the train cars involved in the accident was an older model that the NTSB said should have been replaced 13 years ago. In fact, after another accident in 1996, the NTSB told Metro that these types of train cars will simply crumple in a crash situation and recommended that it improve its rail cars crashworthiness. However, those warnings – along with several others – were ignored, with budgetary concerns being given as the reason.

NTSB investigation

The NTSB investigation will take quite a while to complete, but the Board has stated that the trains should not have collided if the company's computerized system was working properly as it contains an automated stopping system. It has also stated that the investigation may not be as easy as it could have been as one of the trains did not include a data recorder. Data recorders, or black boxes, provide investigators with recorded data about why an accident may have occurred. While the NTSB had recommended that Metro install them on every car to monitor speeds, braking and other safety data, it did not.

What should you do if you've been injured?

If you were injured in the train crash, the first thing you should do is seek appropriate medical care. If you don't believe you were seriously injured but are on the fence about seeking medical attention, it's best to err on the side of caution. Experienced railroad lawyers say that you should make sure to keep accurate records of all doctor visits and expenses you've incurred relating to the accident just in case you choose to file a lawsuit in the future.

Although taking legal action is, and should be, the last thing on victims' minds, it is important to understand that recoverable damages in accident cases like this may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and others. Since the accident occurred in D.C. and not in Maryland, there are no caps on damages for pain and suffering – which is at least one bright spot in this tragedy. If you have questions about liability or damages due to the accident, don't hesitate to contact a D.C. railroad attorney to discuss your situation.