Attorney
After numerous tests, a D.C. streetcar in “test mode” crashed into a car earlier this month, according to the Washington Post. 
The newspaper reported that nobody was injured in the collision. The streetcar line is expected to open next week, with 2.2 miles of track running along H Street and Benning Road NE. It will be the first streetcar line in the city in the last 50 years.
The accident reportedly involved a black sedan that was crossing in front of the streetcar, near the intersection of 6th and H Streets NE. The car was reportedly struck on the passenger side. A representative for DDOT said that during test modes, the streetcar travels at speeds of six to seven miles per hour.
The crash remains under investigation. Photos of the accident were trending locally on social media sites.
Injured in a Streetcar Crash?
Aside from vehicle accidents, many people are fearful of potential bicycle accidents associated with the streetcar line.
“I don’t like seeing people that have broken wrists, or freshly scarred shins or anything like that, coming into the shop as business,” said Loren Copsey, one of the co-owners of the Daily Rider, a bicycle shop, according to the Washington Post. “We’re going to have to figure out how to operate within this new sort of reality of streetcars on H Street.”
Remember, something as big as a streetcar needs adequate time to stop, so you should avoid walking or riding your bike near the line. Additionally, the tracks could cause your bicycle to flip or damage your wheel if you hit it at an odd angle, so try to avoid this as much as possible.
Who Should I Talk to About a Streetcar Accident?
If you are injured in an accident associated with this streetcar, speak to our attorneys. For more information about personal injury cases, you can visit our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Additionally, it should be noted that if you are a passenger in the streetcar when it is involved in an accident and you suffer injuries, you might be able to hold DDOT liable. For more information, including safety tips released by the agency about the streetcar, you can visit DCStreetCar.com.
Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.
Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia Injury Attorneys
Did You Know? The DC Streetcar is expected to accommodate between 144-160 passengers.