Hoboken Train Crash (2016), Ongoing Litigation for Train Accident Victims
On September 29, 2016, a New Jersey Transit commuter train, Pascack Valley Line Train #6214, crashed into the Hoboken Terminal during the morning rush hour, resulting in over 100 casualties and one tragic death. The catastrophic event has led to years of legal battles, with victims and their families seeking justice and compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages they have suffered. Eight years after the crash, all passenger lawsuits and claims have been settled for more than $22 million.
The 2016 Hoboken Train Crash: A Preventable Tragedy
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation revealed that the train was traveling at approximately 21 mph, more than twice the speed limit, when it crashed into a wall of the Hoboken Terminal. The NTSB determined that the primary cause of the accident was the engineer’s failure to stop the train due to fatigue resulting from undiagnosed severe obstructive sleep apnea. Contributing factors included NJ Transit’s failure to follow its internal sleep apnea screening guidance and the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) failure to require railroads to screen safety-critical workers for sleep disorders. The train also lacked a positive train control (PTC) system, which could have intervened to stop the train.
The Aftermath: Injuries, Loss, and Legal Action
The Hoboken train crash resulted in devastating consequences for the victims and their families. One woman, Fabiola Bittar de Kroon, was killed by falling debris while standing on the platform. Over 100 others suffered injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe fractures, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. The emotional toll on the victims and their families has been immeasurable, with many experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
In the wake of the tragedy, numerous lawsuits were filed against New Jersey Transit, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and the train’s engineer. The lawsuits alleged negligence on the part of NJ Transit for failing to install a PTC system, failing to properly screen the engineer for medical conditions, and failing to maintain a safe environment for passengers.
Settlements and Compensation for Victims
Over the years, NJ Transit has reached settlements with many of the victims and their families. In June 2021, NJ Transit agreed to pay more than $8 million to settle five lawsuits, including the wrongful death lawsuit filed by Fabiola Bittar de Kroon’s husband. The specific terms of the settlements are confidential, but train crash victims can typically recover economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress).
As of October 2024, NJ Transit has settled all passenger lawsuits and claims for more than $22 million. In addition to the settlements, NJ Transit has also implemented several safety improvements, including installing PTC on its rail lines and enhancing medical screenings for train crews.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
In a train accident, multiple parties may be held liable for the resulting damages. These parties may include:
- The train company: If the train company failed to maintain its equipment, properly train its employees, or implement adequate safety measures, it may be held liable for negligence.
- The train operator: If the train operator was negligent in operating the train, such as by speeding, failing to follow safety protocols, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may be held liable.
- The manufacturer of the train or train components: If the train or its components were defectively designed or manufactured, the manufacturer may be held liable.
- A government entity that owns or operates the railroad: If a government entity was responsible for maintaining the railroad tracks or infrastructure and failed to do so properly, it may be held liable.
If more than one party is liable, damages may be divided among the various parties in an amount determined by the judge or jury.
The Importance of Legal Representation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney. A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal rights, investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with the responsible parties to obtain fair compensation for your damages.
Statute of Limitations
It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations may bar you from recovering any compensation for your injuries.
Seeking Justice and Preventing Future Tragedies
The Hoboken train crash was a preventable tragedy that had a profound impact on the lives of the victims and their families. While settlements and safety improvements can provide some measure of closure and prevent future accidents, it is essential to continue holding responsible parties accountable and advocating for safer transportation systems.