Posted in Pedestrian Accident,Tennessee Accident Law on September 8, 2017
Fatal Injuries Reported after Man is Struck by Music City Star
A 25-year-old man was struck by the Music City Star passenger train in Nashville on Tuesday morning, causing him to be pushed into the Stones River and to suffer fatal injuries.
Per a report by WKRN.com, the accident happened in Donelson at around 7:30 a.m. A spokesperson with Metro Nashville Police says that the victim was walking with his back to the train and may have been wearing earbuds at the time of the accident.
The conductor of the train saw the man walking in its path and applied the train’s brakes and sounded its horn. However, the man didn’t move out of the way and was struck by the locomotive. The impact of the collision caused him to be thrown into the river off Lebanon Pike.
Emergency responders retrieved his body. They haven’t released his identity, but say that he’s a 25-year-old local man.
Around 300 passengers were on the train at the time of the accident, and none of them were injured during the accident. A spokesperson with the Regional Transit Authority, which operates the passenger train, says that staff members are investigating the accident.
6 Train Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Passengers
Whether they’re carrying passengers or freight, trains are still a vital part of this country’s transportation sector. And while they’re not as common as cars, trucks, and SUVs, it’s still vital for everyone to know a few train safety rules and tips, especially if they ride commuters or frequently walk or drive on or near train tracks.
The Rail Safety Education’s Operation Lifesaver® recommends that everyone know and follow these six safety tips concerning trails:
Staying alert means realizing that trains can come from either direction and at any time. It also means avoiding distractions, including the usage of cell phones or music players when you’re near a train.
Even if the train tracks are a good distance away from the overhang at a train station, you should never put your feet or legs over the edge. Trains are wider than the tracks and can sometimes even be wider than the overhang, depending on their orientation on the tracks.
Train stations have painted sections that indicate where it’s safe and unsafe to stand. Never stand on the painted area and stay at least three feet from the train when it’s entering or exiting the station.
Whether you’re entering or exiting a train, be cautious and watch your step. There may be a gap between the train platform and the train itself.
Trains can start suddenly, and rides can sometimes be bumpy. To protect yourself, make sure you find a seat as soon as you board or a pole that you can hold onto to steady yourself and keep your balance.
If you’re in a vehicle, cross train tracks only at designated crossings. If you’re a pedestrian, never cross tracks outside of designated crossings, as you may be unable to tell when a train is approaching.
At Matt Hardin Law, our Nashville auto accident attorneys know that many residents of Davidson County and Middle Tennessee rely on public transportation to get to work, school, or just around town. Whether it’s a train or a bus, it’s important to make safety your top priority when you’re entering, riding, or exiting the vehicle.
Unfortunately, we also know that some people don’t think about safety at all when they’re on the roadway, putting themselves and others at risk. If you or someone you know was hurt in a crash that was caused by another person’s negligence, you may be eligible to pursue a claim for compensation. Get in touch with our legal team today to find out how we can assist you. Just dial (615) 200-1111 or complete a free online consultation form.
