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Within the past few days, two trains in the State of New York have derailed. These accidents are part of a larger trend that includes collapsing cranes, construction accidents, and plane crashes. Some believe that we are living through a so-called “competency crisis,” in which our society is no longer capable of maintaining complex infrastructure systems. It is clear that these accidents are the result of negligence, whatever the root cause might be. While injured victims may pursue compensation by taking legal action, the lawsuits do not seem to be preventing further disasters.
Two New Train Derailments in New York
On August 5, 2023, it was reported that a Long Island Rail Road train (LIRR) had derailed in Queens, injuring at least seven people. That number was increased to 13 people, according to other reports. Although all of the injuries were non-life-threatening, this was yet another reminder that New York’s infrastructure seems to be teetering on the edge. The cause of the derailment was not revealed as of this writing, but the incident came just days after a crane collapsed in the middle of Manhattan – causing several injuries.
Just one day prior, another train derailed in Upstate New York near Amsterdam. As many as 13 cars were scattered across the train track, and drone footage of the incident highlighted the severity of this disaster. Fortunately, no one was injured. However, the situation could have been much worse. Many of the derailed cars were tankers filled with fuel. It does not take much imagination to consider what might have happened if these tankers ignited. While the authorities assured the public that there was no risk to anyone, this incident highlights the precarious nature of New York’s infrastructure systems.
New York’s Infrastructure Has Been Steadily Declining for Some Time
These issues may be seemingly accelerating in recent years, but they are nothing new. In 2016, the infamous Hoboken train crash killed one person and injured over 100. In this incident, the commuter train went straight through a barrier, going beyond the end of the tracks and colliding with a wall. In 2013, another commuter train in New York derailed, killing four people and injuring a further 60. The accident occurred in the Bronx, and it left at least one car in a river. In 2019, another LIRR crash killed three people when it derailed in New York after colliding with a truck on the tracks.
Where Can I Find a Personal Injury Attorney in New York?
If you have been searching the New York area for a qualified personal injury attorney, look no further than the Glassman Law Group. While the root cause of these infrastructure disasters is up for debate, we can safely say that some kind of negligence is to blame. New Yorkers shouldn’t have to worry about accidents when taking a train or walking down the street. Those responsible for the collapse of these basic infrastructure systems must be held accountable. Book your consultation today to pursue compensation.
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