Federal investigators looking into a recent Amtrak train accident have turned their attention to the cell phone records of the engineer who was responsible for driving the train when it crashed.
Although their investigation has revealed that the engineer did text and participate in phone calls on the day of the crash, investigators have not yet said whether any of those messages were received or sent while the train was in motion. They are currently matching the data in the cell phone records to data in the locomotive’s event recorder, its video stream, recorded radio communications, and other surveillance videos to see if any messages can be pinpointed to specific moments in the events leading up to and including the crash. The engineer has said that he does not remember the events of the crash.
The Amtrak train derailed in Philadelphia after failing to navigate a curve in the tracks. Investigators have determined that the train was traveling at 106 miles per hour when it reached the curve, which is far beyond the posted speed limit for the area. The accident claimed the lives of eight passengers and injured dozens more.
Meanwhile, injured passengers are beginning to seek the help of attorneys and to file suit. At least one lawsuit plans to challenge the federal cap on damages for passengers who are injured in Amtrak crashes, according to the New York Daily News.
At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP, our New York train accident attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients receive the full compensation they deserve after a serious train crash injury or death. For a free and confidential consultation, contact our office today.