Recent reports by The Washington Post have uncovered a disturbing total of 47 red light violations by Metro train operators since 2012. According to reports, incidents happened among both inexperienced train operators and those with years of service.
Articles suggest many of the violations occur because operators simply “tune out” or are not paying attention to the task at hand, even when at the helm of a train weighing over 200-tons and filled with riders. The reporting suggests Metro train operators go on “autopilot” when at the controls.
Matters do not appear to be improving. One article points out 2015 saw twice as many red light violations as the previous two years combined. Articles highlight reports by investigators that most reasonable people may see as a culture of indifference to making safety a top priority.
The conclusions, if true, are simply unacceptable. Rail operators like Metro have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their riders and take reasonable safety measures to ensure accidents do not occur.
When reports surface Metro train operators run red lights because they simply do not pay attention and are not supervised, it should give all of us cause for concern. Our area relies heavily on Metro for work and leisure and almost all of us know someone who rides Metro daily.
As a law firm committed to public safety and holding wrongdoers accountable for their careless actions, The Cochran Firm, D.C. commends The Washington Post for their excellent work revealing the epidemic of incompetence among some Metro employees and their supervisors. Our firm was a member of the plaintiff’s steering committee for the victims of the deadly 2009 Fort Totten Metro crash that took the lives of several innocent victims.
The Cochran Firm, D.C. provided further representation to victims trapped on the smoke filled train at L’Enfant Plaza in January 2015. Our attorneys and staff focus our practice on helping ordinary people hurt by the negligent actions of powerful entities unable to take responsibility for their careless actions.
If you or a loved one suffered an accident on a Metro train or Metro bus, contact The Cochran Firm, D.C. for a free consultation about your case. Call 202-682-5800 or 1-800-THE FIRM (843-3476) to speak to an attorney.
