Friday, March 5, 2010

Metrolink Crash Resistant Train Cars Arrives

Finally, the first two crash resistant train cars have arrived and will be replacing the older models used by Metrolink.

Metrolink is still reeling from the massive Chatsworth train accident that resulted in 25 deaths and millions of dollars in settlement.

The new train cars are in line with the series of actions being taken by Metrolink to improve passenger safety.

The new cars use “crush zone” technology to absorb the impact of the collision.
It will go a long way in reducing the injuries that may be sustained in case of a train crash.

Other measures taken by Metrolink include the placement of video cameras to monitor train and employee activities.

Chatsworth was allegedly caused by a train engineer who did not notice a red signal because he was texting.

One of the leading causes of train accidents is negligence. It could be operator error like that of Chatsworth or just the simple lack of warning signs and safety measures in their railroad crossing.

Hopefully, Metrolink will address all these safety concerns and not just the issue of reducing the impact during a collision.