Important News from Your Texas Accident Lawyer
Dump Truck Strikes Light-Rail, Causing Derailment in Downtown Houston
Posted on Oct 22, 2011
A dump truck that ran a red light crashed into the side of a light-rail, causing a derailment that halted the service for about four hours. The accident, which occurred on October 4th, is the 27th light-rail accident of 2011, but is the first derailment.
The driver of the dump truck, Paniagua Prisciliano Espino, of Fresno, stated that he could not tell that his light was red because of the glare of the sun on the traffic signal. He headed west on Capitol and was struck by an oncoming light-rail, which was heading southbound.
The force of the accident caused the train to derail. The truck was forced onto the sidewalk, nearly striking Ziggy's Bar and Grill.
15 people - the train operator, 13 passengers, and Espino - were taken to St. Joseph Medical Center and Ben Taub General Hospital. Most received treatment for minor injuries. However, some passengers claimed to have been thrown nearly 15 feet across the train.
Metro police will issue a citation to the driver of the dump truck.
The Houston accident attorneys at Denena & Points are relieved to hear that most of the injuries in this accident were minor. However, even if you think your injuries are minor, you should still seek medical attention, as you may have injuries that you cannot yet see or feel. If you were injured in this accident and would like to speak with an attorney about your rights to seek compensation, contact our office for a free consultation.
Read More About Dump Truck Strikes Light-Rail, Causing Derailment in Downtown Houston...