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Metro Accidents

California’s extensive rail and metro systems are vital for daily commutes, tourism, and reducing road congestion. However, accidents involving trains and light rail vehicles — whether collisions at crossings, derailments, or pedestrian strikes — can have devastating consequences. 

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A metro accident refers to any unplanned collision or incident involving a metro train or light rail vehicle. These can include:

• Train collisions with pedestrians or vehicles
  Several recent incidents in the Los Angeles area involved pedestrians struck by Metro trains — including a fatal collision near Vernon Station and another on the Metro A Line in Watts that killed a person walking across tracks.

• Derailments or mechanical incidents
  Trains can derail at stations or along tracks, disrupting service and posing safety risks — as seen in a downtown LA derailment at 7th Street/Metro Center in 2025.

• Crossing accidents with cars or other vehicles
  Collisions involving cars at rail crossings — like the 2015 Oxnard train derailment when a truck entered the tracks — can cause injuries and derailments.

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California has experienced catastrophic rail accidents, some with significant loss of life:

• 2008 Chatsworth Collision (Los Angeles): A Metrolink commuter train collided head-on with a freight train, killing 25 and injuring 135. The accident was linked to signal violations and distracted operation.

• 2005 Glendale Train Crash: A Metrolink train collided with a vehicle intentionally parked on the tracks, resulting in 11 deaths and 177 injuries.

These tragedies have driven policy changes, safety technology investments, and public discourse on transportation safety across California.

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Metro systems face unique safety challenges:

• Pedestrian and driver behavior — Trespassing on tracks or ignoring crossing signals increases risk.

• Mechanical and infrastructure issues — Derailments can stem from track or equipment failures.

• Construction hazards — Accidents can also occur during subway construction, such as a worker struck at a Purple Line project site.

Unlike typical car accident claims, Metro accident claims involve government entities, such as the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA).
This means:

• Special laws apply

• Shorter deadlines apply

• Claims must follow strict procedural rules

Metro may be liable if the accident was caused by:

• Negligent operation of a bus or train

• Failure to maintain safe vehicles or stations

• Inadequate training or supervision of operators

One of the most important things injured person needs to know is that in California, claims against a government entity must usually be filed within SIX MONTHS of the accident. Missing this deadline can permanently lose your right to recovery—no matter how serious the injury. This is one of the biggest reasons Metro accident victims seek legal guidance early.
 
Metro-related injuries can range from minor to life-altering, including:
•    Head injuries and concussions
•    Broken bones and fractures
•    Back, neck, and spinal injuries
•    Soft tissue injuries
•    Injuries requiring ongoing medical care

Even injuries that seem “minor” at first can worsen over time, especially when caused by sudden impact or falls inside a moving vehicle.
 
Depending on the circumstances, a California Metro accident claim may include compensation for:
•    Medical bills (current and future)
•    Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
•    Pain and suffering
•    Emotional distress
•    Long-term disability or impairment
But, each case is unique, and outcomes depend heavily on how the claim is documented and presented.
 
If you were injured on a Metro bus or train:

• Seek medical care immediately

• Report the incident to Metro personnel

• Document the scene and your injuries if possible

• Avoid giving recorded statements without guidance

• Act quickly—government claim deadlines move fast

 
If you or a loved one were injured in a Sherman Oaks or Los Angeles Metro accident, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Understanding your rights early can help preserve your claim and reduce unnecessary stress. Contact Yana Di Bella to discuss your situation and learn what options may be available under California law. No obligation. No pressure. Just clear guidance when you need it most.