Metrolink Accidents: A Brief History

Wednesday, March 15, 2023 by The Law Offices of J. Jeffrey Herman

Metrolink provides Californians and those visiting the state with a convenient means of navigating certain regions. However, it’s important to be aware of the fact that Metrolink accidents can happen and have happened. The following are a few noteworthy examples of incidents which put Metrolink riders in harm’s way:

Chatsworth train collision (2008)

On September 12, 2008, a Metrolink train collided head-on with a Union Pacific freight train in Chatsworth, California. The accident resulted in 25 fatalities and over 100 injuries, making it the deadliest train accident in the United States in over a decade. The accident was caused by the Metrolink train’s engineer, who was texting on his phone at the time of the collision.

The Chatsworth train collision highlighted the dangers of distracted driving and led to changes in the way train operators are trained and monitored. Metrolink implemented a strict ban on the use of electronic devices while operating trains, and railroads across the country began to take a closer look at their safety procedures.

Glendale derailment (2005)

On January 26, 2005, a Metrolink train derailed in Glendale, California, after colliding with a Jeep that was parked on the tracks. Eleven people were killed, and over 180 were injured in the accident. The driver of the Jeep had parked on the tracks intentionally, in an apparent suicide attempt.

The Glendale derailment highlighted the need for increased security measures at rail crossings and led to changes in the way railroads communicate with law enforcement and emergency services. Metrolink also began to install additional safety features, such as cameras and sensors, to help prevent similar accidents in the future.

Moorpark collision (1993)

On April 23, 1993, a Metrolink train collided with a freight train in Moorpark, California, resulting in three fatalities and over 100 injuries. The accident was caused by a miscommunication between the train’s engineer and a dispatcher, who had given conflicting signals about the track ahead.

The Moorpark collision led to changes in the way railroads communicate with their engineers and dispatchers, with a renewed emphasis on clear and concise communication. Metrolink also began to install new safety features, such as positive train control (PTC), which can automatically slow or stop a train in the event of an emergency.

San Bernardino derailment (2016)

On November 22, 2016, a Metrolink train derailed in San Bernardino, California, after colliding with a pickup truck that had been abandoned on the tracks. The accident resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. The driver of the pickup truck had abandoned his vehicle after getting stuck on the tracks, but had failed to contact the railroad or law enforcement.

The San Bernardino derailment highlighted the dangers of vehicles on the tracks and led to renewed efforts to educate the public about rail safety. Metrolink also began to work with law enforcement and other agencies to increase enforcement of laws related to railroad trespassing and vandalism.

Oxnard collision (2015)

On February 24, 2015, a Metrolink train collided with a tractor-trailer in Oxnard, California, resulting in over 30 injuries. The accident was caused by the truck driver, who had turned onto the tracks in front of the oncoming train, mistaking the tracks for a nearby roadway.

The Oxnard collision led to increased efforts to educate commercial drivers about the dangers of driving on or near railroad tracks. Metrolink also began to install new safety features, such as improved signage and fencing, to help prevent similar accidents in the future.

Hopefully, you’ll never be involved in such an accident. However, if you are, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other such losses.

Review your case with a lawyer for more information. At the Law Offices of J. Jeffrey Herman, serving clients in and around such communities as Oxnard, Ventura, and Camarillo, a Metrolink accidents attorney is available to provide the representation you deserve in these circumstances. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 805-983-2344.