On April 3, two workers were killed when an Amtrak train slammed into a backhoe in Chester, Pennsylvania. The two individuals were identified as a 59-year-old Lincoln University man and a 61-year-old man from Delaware. Authorities stated that the accident was caused by construction equipment that was left on the track where the train was passing through.
The Amtrak passenger train was making its way to Savannah from New York City when it collided with the backhoe at about 7:54 a.m. The collision caused the lead engine to jump the tracks. At the time the accident occurred, the train was carrying 341 passengers and seven crew. Although 30 passengers and one crew member were transported to a nearby hospital, no one appeared to suffer any major injuries.
One of the deceased men was identified as the backhoe operator while the other was a supervisor. Both were employed by Amtrak. The passengers who were not injured were offloaded near the intersection of 9th and Langley streets in Trainer.
Certain jobs have increased risks that could potentially result in workplace injuries. Those who are harmed in accidents on the job often have to undergo extensive and expensive medical care and treatment during which they are unable to return to their jobs. Family members of those who are fatally injured have to deal with the loss of financial contributions in addition to the grief over the sudden loss of a loved one. Workers’ compensation benefits may be available to help with these issues, and an attorney can provide guidance in how to prepare and file a claim.
Source: NJ.com, “2 workers killed in deadly Amtrak crash in Pa. identified“, Erin O’Neill, April 4, 2016
