Personal Injury Law Blog

Public transportation is essential in Chicago, offering thousands of residents and visitors daily access to work, school and other destinations. However, when accidents occur on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) system, the consequences can be devastating. Painful injuries, emotional trauma and financial burdens often follow, leaving victims struggling to recover. The 2023 CTA Yellow Line crash in Rogers Park, which injured 38 people and resulted in multiple lawsuits, highlights the complex issues surrounding public transit accidents.

In November 2023, a CTA Yellow Line train collided with snow removal equipment on the tracks near the Howard rail yard. Despite the operator’s attempts to brake and stop the train, it crashed into the plow at about 27 mph, resulting in significant injuries. Twenty-three victims were transported to local hospitals, while others received on-site treatment. The collision disrupted service for months and triggered an ongoing investigation into the factors that led to the crash.

A detailed report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) identified two key causes of the CTA train accident. They consisted of a design flaw in the train’s braking system and operator impairment with a blood alcohol content (BAC) more than twice the legal limit. 

The train’s braking distance of 1,780 feet fell far short of modern safety standards, contributing to the collision. Equally troubling was the discovery that the train operator had a BAC of .06, exceeding the legal limit of .02 for safety-sensitive employees. The operator, licensed for just three months, had not undergone random alcohol testing before the crash.

The 47-year-old train operator was one of seven CTA workers injured in the accident. He remains out of service but has not been charged or cited in connection with the incident.

Unfortunately, the Yellow Line crash is not an isolated incident. Public transit systems are vulnerable to various risks, including mechanical failures, human error and inadequate safety protocols. These factors often interact, creating dangerous conditions for passengers and employees alike. For example, outdated equipment, poor maintenance or insufficient operator training can make CTA accidents more likely. When alcohol impairment or extreme weather conditions are added to the mix, the potential for harm increases dramatically.

Victims of CTA bus and train accidents often face a long and difficult path to recovery. Injuries can range from minor bruises to paralysis, requiring extensive medical care, physical therapy and time away from work. In addition to the physical toll, many people experience emotional distress and financial strain. 

Lawsuits filed in the aftermath of the Yellow Line crash have alleged negligence by the CTA, claiming the collision could have been prevented through better oversight and system improvements. Seeking compensation after a transit accident can be complex, with multiple parties involved.

Victims must show that negligence contributed to the incident, whether due to dangerous operating conditions, equipment failure, or insufficient safety measures. In cases like the Yellow Line crash, reports from the NTSB and other agencies can provide valuable evidence of underlying problems. Personal injury lawsuits may also target policies that failed to prevent the crash, such as lapses in employee testing or maintenance protocols.

When a CTA bus or train accident occurs, victims should know that they have options. Filing a personal injury claim can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, offering much-needed relief during a challenging time. Additionally, holding responsible parties accountable can lead to safety improvements that prevent future accidents, benefitting all transit users. An experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer can gather evidence to support your claim. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a CTA bus or train accident, it is critical to act promptly. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is dedicated to helping CTA bus and train accident victims recover compensation for their injuries. Our experienced Chicago personal injury attorneys understand the challenges you face and are ready to guide you through the legal process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.