Attorney
According to the Associated Press, President Barack Obama’s administration says that it is drafting rules that would require railroads to install cameras inside train cabs.
Installation of Cameras in Train Cabs
The cameras would record the actions of engineers operating trains. The announcement comes after an Amtrak train traveling from D.C. to New York City derailed in Philadelphia earlier this year, killing eight passengers and injuring more than 200 people. Following the derailment, there were concerns over the engineer’s actions, as he could not remember the events that occurred just prior to the accident. Some experts speculated that something may have struck the train’s cab or that human errors may have played a role in the crash.
According to the AP, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) said that in addition to cameras, it might push for further legislation aimed at reducing human errors on trains. It did not speculate as to what these changes would be. In addition to the FRA, the National Transportation Safety Board has voiced its support for camera use. Some labor unions oppose the cameras.
Meanwhile, Amtrak has said that it will begin to install cameras in the cabs of some of its trains, before any laws are passed regarding the recording devices. The Philadelphia derailment remains under investigation. The train had no inward-facing camera installed on it prior to the train accident.
Speak to Our Attorneys Following a Train Accident
It is a good sign that the federal government is drafting rules regarding cameras in trains. Remember, if you are injured in a train accident or derailment, you should speak to our attorneys following the incident.
Many train accidents occur due to human error. Our attorneys can investigate any accident and help determine if an engineer’s negligence contributed to your injuries. You may be entitled to compensation through a lawsuit or any settlement plan offered by a locomotive company. Make sure you receive expert legal guidance.
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Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.
Washington, D.C. Injury Attorneys
Source: http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2015/07/08/govt-to-require-cameras-in-train-cabs-after-amtrak-crash-2/