Chicago Train Accident Lawyer Gregory F. Coplan Comments On CTA Blue Line Train Collision
Chicago, IL (PRWEB) November 17, 2013 -- Chicago train accident lawyer Gregory F. Coplan of Coplan & Crane said today a CTA blue line collision during morning rush hour involving a runaway train on Sept. 30 illustrates how railroad accidents can quickly result in multiple injuries.
According to CBS Chicago (“Rogue Train Causes Collision on Blue Line, Dozens Injured,” September 30) and other media reports, a four-car train that was out-of-service was on the wrong side of the tracks when it was involved in a low-speed collision with a train that was stopped on the tracks. The crash at Forest Park near Harlem Avenue and the Eisenhower Expressway sent dozens to the hospital with injuries, according to the report.
Personal injury attorney Coplan, who represents victims of negligence and families who lost loved ones in accidents, said the coming weeks will be a difficult time for the victims of the collision between the two Chicago Transit Authority trains.
“We know how frightening it is to be involved in a train accident,” Coplan said. “Our thoughts are with the victims who were injured in this accident. We recommend that anyone injured in the accident seek immediate medical attention while the authorities work diligently to uncover the cause of the crash. Even if you think you have a minor injury, it’s important to get medical attention and follow the doctor’s orders. Your actions now could make a difference in the future.”
Coplan said serious injuries may become apparent in the days or weeks after an accident.
Victims should speak with a personal injury attorney in Chicago about their rights, he said.
CBS Chicago reported that the accident happened at the peak of rush hour on Monday morning, September 30. Forest Park Mayor Anthony T. Calderone said it is believed no one was onboard the eastbound train, according to ABC7 News (“Runaway CTA train strikes another Blue Line train at Harm stop: 33 injured in train crash in Forest Park,” September 30). While police were investigating the possibility that somebody deliberately caused the accident, Chicago Transit Authority and federal officials said they believed the crash was an accident, according to the news report. The National Transportation Safety Board has taken over the investigation, ABC7 News reported.
CBS Chicago said that the runaway train could have been traveling at upwards of 20 to 25 miles per hour at the time of the crash.
“While this accident is under investigation, generally speaking accidents on trains, buses and other vehicles operated by the Chicago Transit Authority can result in serious injuries that could even prove to be fatal,” said Coplan a train accident lawyer in Chicago. “While it’s fortunate that this accident resulted in no loss of life, the people who were injured are likely dealing with pain and they are probably shaken up emotionally. A thorough investigation is critical to determine the cause to prevent future similar incidents.”
Coplan said victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other losses. A personal injury lawyer can protect their rights, he explained.
About Coplan & Crane
Serving clients in Oak Park, Forest Park, Chicago and throughout Illinois, Coplan & Crane handles a wide range of cases, including railroad accidents, car accidents, truck accidents, bus accidents, workplace injuries, dangerous products, medical malpractice and birth injuries. The law firm has a proven track record for obtaining large verdicts and settlements, including several, high-profile, multi-million-dollar recoveries. A free consultation is available to all interested clients. The law firm works on a contingency fee basis. That means people only pay if they win.
For more information about the rights of people injured in Illinois railroad accidents and the legal options available to families of victims, call (800) 394-6002 or visit http://www.coplancrane.com.
Coplan & Crane is located at 1111 Westgate Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60301.
Jacob M Del Hagen, Big Voodoo Interactive, http://www.bigvoodoo.com, +1 (413) 650-0593, [email protected]
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