At Least 15 People Hurt After Brightline Train Collides With Truck in Florida

According to a report from the Associated Press (AP), at least 15 people were injured after a Brightline train collided with a fire truck. The accident happened in Downtown Delray Beach. A fire truck—which reportedly had its light flashing—maneuvered around a crossing gate. Here, our Miami truck accident attorney explains what we know about this devastating collision.

A Brightline Train Struck a Fire Truck at a Railroad Crossing in Delray Beach, FL 

On December 28th, 2024, a high-speed Brightline passenger train collided with a Delray Beach Fire Rescue ladder truck in downtown Delray Beach. The crash has resulted in at least 15 injuries. Notably, three firefighters were hurt in the incident. The collision occurred around 10:45 a.m. near East Atlantic Avenue and Railroad Avenue.

As confirmed in reporting by the AP, the fire truck was responding to a call. It had stopped at the crossing for a freight train to pass. After the freight train cleared, the truck maneuvered around the lowered crossing gates. Unfortunately, the driver was unaware of the oncoming Brightline train on the adjacent track. The train struck the fire truck. There was major damage.

The Delray Beach Police Department, Brightline officials, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are all investigating the terrible crash. Notably, authorities are examining whether the crossing gates were functioning properly at the time. Among other things, they are reviewing footage from the train’s forward-facing camera.

Brightline Railroad Crossing Collisions Have Been a Serious Safety Issue 

The Brightline train is a popular form of regional transportation in Florida. However, unfortunately, railroad crossing collisions have been a serious safety problem since the commuter train service started its operations in 2017. In fact, Brightline—which operates one of the fastest passenger rail services in the entire country—is facing major scrutiny for its high rate of collisions.

Reports indicate that Brightline has one of the highest rates of deaths per mile among U.S. railroads. By late 2024, there were over 100 fatalities linked to Brightline crossings. With that being said, it is important to note that these incidents typically involve people circumventing safety barriers or engaging in risky behavior near tracks.

Still, it is clear that more needs to be done. Brightline has invested in safety campaigns and upgraded warning systems at crossings, including increased signage, physical barriers, and public education initiatives. However, despite these measures, the issue persists. There are clearly additional modifications needed to make railroad crossings more safe in South Florida.

Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Miami Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we fight aggressively for justice for injured victims. If you were hurt in a collision between a train and truck, our attorneys are here to help. Give us a phone call now for a free, no strings attached initial consultation. With legal offices in Miami and West Palm Beach, our team advocates for injured victims throughout Southeast Florida.

Source:

apnews.com/article/train-fire-truck-florida-collision-381e53c970b5970de44ab4d11c4b9276