Empire, CA – Tragedy struck on Sunday night, April 21, 2024, as a 49-year-old Modesto woman lost her life after being struck by an Amtrak train, as reported by the Modesto Bee.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) collision report, the incident occurred on Highway 132, just west of E Street in Empire. The woman was riding a BMX bicycle westbound when, for reasons unknown, she circumvented the crossing arms that were blocking the intersection of the highway and the railroad tracks. As she crossed the tracks, an oncoming train approached, resulting in a collision that proved fatal. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene.
Fortunately, no one else was injured during the collision. Highway 132 remained open as authorities conducted their investigation. However, railways experienced some delays due to the incident.
As of Monday morning, the woman’s identity had not been released pending notification of her next-of-kin.
Liability and Wrongful Death
Readers should keep in mind that any suggestion of liability made by news outlets regarding a roadway fatality might only be reporting the opinion of law enforcement based on preliminary investigations. Further examination may produce evidence that changes the picture of events, and all parties ought to be considered innocent until proven guilty.
In cases like this one, it may turn out that important safety measures were not in place or somehow malfunctioning. It might even appear that the reckless behavior of others on the roadway could have contributed to the bicyclist’s death.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help grieving families to sort through the particulars of their loved one’s death to determine if any outside party bears some amount of liability that would offer grounds for a Wrongful Death Claim.
The compensation from a Wrongful Death Claim can prove extremely helpful for families coping with the unexpected financial burden of a loved one’s passing, including hospital bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support any dependents of the deceased.
