[11-05-2024] San Diego County, CA – Seventeen Injured After Pickup Truck Vs. MTS Trolley Collision in Chula Vista

Seventeen people were injured in a crash involving a pickup truck and an MTS trolley in Chula Vista on Tuesday afternoon, November 5, 2024.

The collision occurred around 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Industrial Boulevard and L Street.

According to fire officials, the pickup truck broadsided a northbound trolley at the L Street grade crossing. One person inside the truck sustained injuries, and a total of 17 people were injured in the incident.

MTS officials reported that there is currently no trolley service between H Street Trolley Station and the Iris Avenue Transit Center. Bus shuttles are being provided to serve impacted stations.

MTS is conducting an investigation.

Get Help from Our Renowned Train Accident Lawyers In Chula Vista, CA

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a train accident, it’s important to file your claim promptly to increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for justice.

Take advantage of a free consultation with our skilled Chula Vista train accident lawyers, who will review your case, explain the next steps, and assess all factors that may impact your settlement. If you’re having difficulty obtaining crucial information, such as a police report, our team is here to assist you.

With well-established careers and a proven track record of advocating for accident victims, our legal team has helped clients secure more than $500 million in compensation.

To speak with one of our personal injury lawyers, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After a Train Accident in Chula Vista, CA

A train accident can be overwhelming, and knowing the right steps to take afterward is crucial for protecting your health and legal rights. Taking immediate action can greatly impact the outcome of your case.

Here are the steps you need to take to ensure that you receive the treatment and compensation you are entitled to.

1. Seek Medical Attention. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical care as soon as possible. Injuries from train accidents, such as whiplash, broken bones, or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt treatment also helps document your injuries, which is vital for your case.
2. Call Emergency Services. Dial 911 and report the accident. Emergency responders will assess the scene, provide medical assistance, and file an official report, which can be crucial for your claim.
3. Document the Scene. If you are able to do so safely, take photos of the accident scene, including the train, any damage, and visible injuries. Record the time, location, and any other important details about the incident. This documentation can serve as vital evidence.
4. Gather Information. Collect names, contact information, and insurance details from any other parties involved in the accident, including train conductors, passengers, and witnesses. If possible, get the contact information of the police officers who respond to the scene.
5. Do Not Admit Fault. Even if you think you might be responsible, avoid admitting fault at the scene. It’s important to allow investigators to determine the cause of the accident.
6. Contact An Experienced Train Accident Lawyer. Consult with an attorney as soon as possible. A knowledgeable lawyer will help protect your legal rights, investigate the cause of the accident, and guide you through the process of filing a claim. Having legal representation can significantly improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
7. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies. After the accident, insurance companies may contact you for a statement. It’s best not to speak with them until you’ve consulted with a lawyer. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly, often for much less than your claim is worth.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Train Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), in 2023, there were 995 railroad-related deaths, marking a 10% increase from the previous year’s revised total of 908 and the highest number since 2007. Nonfatal injuries also rose to 6,705, a 3% increase from the 2022 total of 6,513.

While fatalities at highway-rail crossings decreased by 9%, deaths from other incidents rose by 17%. This increase included 715 deaths (95%) caused by trespassers. Additionally, seven railroad employees were killed on duty, down from 10 in 2022, and there was only one train passenger death, a decrease from seven the previous year.

The ratio of deaths to nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the railroad industry is approximately 1:7. In 2023, 25% of the total 995 deaths occurred at rail crossings. Of the 3,449 nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses reported, 71 were linked to highway-rail crossing incidents.