The deadline for all trains to be equipped with positive train controls, stemming from legislation passed in response to the 2008 train crash in Chatsworth that killed 25 people and injured 135, will not be extended. Positive train controls (PTC) utilize radio towers and Wi-Fi signals to slow down trains automatically. It is widely believed that PTC would have prevented the Chatsworth crash, as well as a train crash last week in New York.
The legislation, called the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008, provided funds to help develop and install PTC across the United States by the end of 2015. Congress has previously considered extending the deadline, but a recent statement by Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx made clear that the deadline remains. Other provisions of the Rail Safety Improvement Act included limiting the number of hours train crews could work.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commuter train accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today at (800) 333-0000 for a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation.
