Amtrak Train To Chicago Crashes

Larry Buckfire

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An Amtrak train travelling from Michigan to Chicago on November 30, 2007 crashed into the back of a freight train ust as it entered the Chicago yard. Dozens of people were injured and taken to the hospital, including five Amtrak employees who were in critical condition. At least 187 passengers and six crew members were on train No. 371, also known as the Pere Marquette, which was to arrive at Union Station at 10:30 a.m. after leaving Grand Rapids, Mich., at 7:35 a.m.

Statements from witnesses and railroad employees indicate that the operators of the Amtrack train were at fault in the accident for slamming into the back of the Norfolk Southern car. The National Transportation Safety Board has sent a team to the scene to futher investigate the cause of the accident. Other agencies involved are the Federal Railroad Administration and the Illinois Commerce Commission, as well as Amtrak and Norfolk Southern.

Based upon the outcome of the investigations, the injured passengers will have a civil claim for damages against either Amtrack or Southern Railroad. Officials will ultimately determine who was at fault at the accident and take measures to prevent another similar accident in the future. My firm is in Michigan and represents clients injured in all types of commuter accidents, including train accidents.

For more information on this subject, please refer to the section on Mass Transit Accidents.