logo

Call Now: (312) 609-0400

Illinois Metra considers cameras to stem tide of fatal accidents

Vehicles crossing the railroad

or fill out the Contact Form

On behalf of Strom & Associates, Ltd. posted in Mass Transit Accidents on Thursday, March 27, 2014.

Vehicles crossing the railroad

A growing number of injuries and deaths at railroad crossings in Illinois have prompted lawmakers and authorities to consider installing surveillance cameras at certain crossing facilities. Statistics show that 253 people died because of railroad accidents in the Chicago area between 2006 and 2011. Those fatal accidents are due, in part, to pedestrians and vehicles disobeying warning bells and lowered gates, according to officials.

Metra, the organization that manages railways in the Chicago area, say they are still not sure exactly where the cameras will be installed. A system for issuing tickets for violators is also in the works. Officials with Metra say that the cameras could serve as a powerful deterrent for drivers who ignore warning lights at dangerous railway crossings.

It appears that the cameras would operate in a similar fashion as existing red-light violation systems. Cameras would be able to snap photos of drivers’ license plates, and those individuals would receive citations. The punishment for those violations has not yet been explained in news articles.
Authorities in the city say they are trying to cut down on the number of fatal mass transit accidents that occur throughout the region. Although drivers play a role in the railway crossing deaths, train operators also have a responsibility to stay vigilant and avoid striking others’ vehicles. Public transportation operators should be properly trained and equipped to avoid such fatal accidents.

Victims who have been injured in mass transit accidents may have suffered serious injuries. Those individuals may be able to recover financial damages from a variety of parties, including public transportation agencies. A professional personal injury lawyer may provide additional information about victims’ legal rights and options.

Source: Daily Herald, “Metra considers cameras at gate crossings” Marni Pyke, Mar. 22, 2014

Share This Article

As the founder of the firm, Neal has devoted his life to working for the worker. His achievements are numerous and beyond reproach. He is most proud of his work in helping clients obtain valuable benefits, such as a wheelchair ramp to his home or lifetime medical care.

or fill out the Contact Form

As a partner with the firm since 2002, Kevin Yen manages the personal injury department and leads all investigations into nursing home neglect and abuse cases. Kevin has dedicated his life to personal injury matters and has represented thousands of clients and their families to recover damages for their losses. His clients have included family members who lost a loved one due to a tragic accident, injured children, construction workers injured while on the job site and a host of others.

Related Articles

Innovative Treatments for Car Accident Injuries
Motor Vehicle Accident

Innovative Treatments for Car Accident Injuries

As a personal injury attorney I have seen firsthand how car accidents can be life-changing. The journey to recovery is both physically and emotionally challenging. While I am here to help you fight for your rights, it is equally as important to me that you receive the best possible care. Today,

Law

Beware of random lawyers calling you out of the blue!

Imagine waking up with a toothache. Out of nowhere, you get a call from a dentist offering to give you a root canal. Would you see that dentist? Of course you wouldn’t. You would be suspicious and perhaps even a bit irritated. What if you were in a car accident,

Motor Vehicle Accident

Your Guide to Co-Existing Safely on the Road

Whether you’re a driver, a cyclist, or both, you have a responsibility to act in accordance with laws that are meant to keep us all safe.  In Chicago, there’s an undeclared war between drivers and cyclists. Drivers are mad cyclists don’t stop at stop signs. Cyclists are mad drivers speed past

Get a FREE Consultation:
We want to earn your business.

    Lawyers logos
    Lawyers logos