[09-16-2022] Alameda County, CA – Motorcyclist Fatally Struck by Train in Oakland

According to BART officials, a motorcyclist died after crashing into a barrier, landing on BART tracks, and being hit by a train near the 19th Street station in Oakland on Friday evening, September 16, 2022.

The accident occurred just before 4 p.m. near 24th Street and Northgate Avenue, where the Oakland underground tunnel ascends to the aerial track.

According to officials, the motorcyclist hit the BART right-of-way barrier, was ejected onto the tracks, and was then hit by a train.

As emergency personnel worked to resolve the tragic accident, BART services were disrupted throughout the system.

BART took to Twitter on Friday night to express its condolences to the victim’s family and to explain how the horrific accident impacted services.

The Oakland Police Department is investigating this accident.

Train Accident Statistics

According to the Federal Railroad Administration, there were 2,059 train accidents in the United States in 2019. This represents a decrease of 4.5% from the previous year. However, accidents involving fatalities increased by 8.3%, with 156 people dying from train accidents.

A motorcycle is no match for the weight and speed of the train. The rider is either thrown from the bike or pinned beneath the locomotive. Even at low speeds, a train can cause significant damage to a motorcycle, and riders should always exercise caution when sharing the road with trains.

Common sense dictates that riders should avoid crossing tracks when a train is approaching, but many accidents occur when riders misjudge the train’s speed or get caught in a traffic jam on the tracks. Motorcyclists must be aware of their surroundings and cautious when approaching railroad crossings. By following these simple safety tips, riders can help protect themselves from serious injury in the event of a collision with a train.

Alameda County Train Accident Lawyers

Many people think that they do not need a train accident lawyer. They may feel that their insurance company will take care of everything or that the other person’s insurance company will pay for their damages.

However, this is often not the case. Insurance companies are in business to make money, not to pay claims. They will often try to minimize the amount of money they have to pay by offering a low settlement or denying the claim altogether.

If you have been involved in a train accident, you should hire a train accident lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve. Our experienced Alameda County train accident lawyers at Arash Law Firm can help you investigate the accident and build a strong case for compensation.

We have a proven track record of success in these complex cases and will fight for the full amount of damages you are entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation. Please fill out our online intake form or call us at (888) 488-1391.