Teen Couple Struck by Freight Train While Walking Near Railroad Tracks
A tragic train collision involving two teenagers highlights the devastating consequences that can occur when pedestrians and freight trains come into contact.
According to reports, a 16-year-old girl suffered critical injuries and her boyfriend was killed after the two were struck by a freight train while walking near railroad tracks. The teenagers were reportedly on their way to a school dance when the collision occurred.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers surrounding active railroad tracks and the tremendous impact serious train accidents can have on victims, families, and communities.
Teenagers Struck While Walking Near Train Tracks
According to reports about the incident, 16-year-old Mikayla Friend and her boyfriend were walking near railroad tracks on a Friday evening when they were struck by a freight train.
The teenagers were reportedly walking toward a school dance.
The young woman suffered critical injuries and was transported to a hospital for emergency medical treatment. Her boyfriend was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reports indicated that a youth baseball game was taking place near the accident location at the time.
Investigators Examined the Circumstances of the Collision
Investigators worked to determine what happened in the moments leading up to the collision.
According to reports, authorities considered whether headphones or another distraction may have been a factor.
The railroad company reportedly stated that the train’s horn was sounded and an attempt was made to stop the train.
The complete circumstances surrounding a railroad accident can require careful investigation, and early reports may not always provide every detail about what occurred.
Why Freight Train Accidents Can Be So Dangerous
Freight trains are extremely large and heavy vehicles that can require substantial distances to slow or stop.
Unlike passenger vehicles, trains operate on fixed tracks and cannot simply steer around a pedestrian, vehicle, or obstruction.
Railroad accidents involving pedestrians can result in catastrophic or fatal injuries because of the tremendous forces involved.
Potential injuries may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Severe lacerations
- Crush injuries
- Amputations
- Other catastrophic trauma
Emergency treatment, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care may be necessary for people who survive a serious train collision.
Railroad Tracks Are Dangerous Areas for Pedestrians
Railroad tracks and the areas immediately surrounding them should not be treated as ordinary pedestrian pathways.
People near railroad crossings and train tracks may encounter risks involving:
- Approaching trains
- Limited visibility
- Multiple sets of tracks
- Unexpected train movements
- Difficulty judging a train’s speed or distance
- Distractions that interfere with hearing or seeing an approaching train
Pedestrians should use designated railroad crossings and remain attentive to warning signals, gates, signs, and approaching trains.
How Serious Accidents Affect Families
The consequences of a catastrophic accident extend far beyond the initial collision.
Families may suddenly face emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, uncertainty about recovery, and profound emotional distress.
When an accident results in a death, surviving family members may also be confronted with an unexpected loss while trying to understand what happened.
Reports following this collision described an emotional response from the teenagers’ family and surrounding community. The nearby baseball park reportedly observed a moment of silence in recognition of the teenagers involved.
Investigating a Serious Train Accident
The circumstances of every railroad accident are different.
Depending on the incident, an investigation may examine information such as:
- The location of the collision
- Railroad crossing conditions
- Warning signals and equipment
- Train speed and movement
- Horn or warning activity
- Witness accounts
- Surveillance or other available video
- Event data and operational records
- Actions of the people involved
The existence of a serious injury or death does not by itself establish that another person, railroad company, or organization was legally responsible.
Responsibility depends on the particular circumstances and available evidence.
Learning More May Help
After a catastrophic accident, families may have questions about insurance, medical expenses, available evidence, responsibility, and what options may exist.
Because serious accident cases can involve complicated factual and legal issues, the circumstances should be evaluated individually.
DAG Law Firm, APC represents individuals and families affected by serious accidents throughout California.
Explore the firm’s personal injury practice areas to learn more.
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DAG Law Firm, APC handles personal injury matters on a contingency fee basis.
You do not pay attorney’s fees upfront, and we only receive attorney’s fees if we successfully recover compensation for you.
Speak With DAG Law Firm, APC
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, DAG Law Firm, APC can review the circumstances and help you better understand the potential issues involved.
Contact DAG Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Call (323) 930-2020.
News Source
This article discusses a previously reported news event for general informational purposes. DAG Law Firm, APC was not involved in the incident described above unless otherwise stated.
