(Irwindale, CA) A pedestrian died on the Metrolink tracks in a deadly Irwindale Avenue train collision in Irwindale.
On Sunday, August 17, shortly after 4:20 p.m., the Irwindale Avenue train collision occurred. Los Angeles Fire Department officials responded to the incident near Irwindale Avenue and Edna Place.
When officers arrived, they found a person lying on the Metrolink tracks. After assessing the victim, they pronounced him dead at the Irwindale Avenue train collision site. The details on why the pedestrian was on the tracks or how the crash are under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
Legal Opinion of the Irwindale Avenue Train Collision
Train collisions with pedestrians almost always result in fatal consequences. Generally, these cases require examining whether the train operator or agency failed to exercise proper caution, or whether the pedestrian unlawfully accessed the tracks. According to California Vehicle Code 22521, it is illegal for any person to stand or remain on railroad tracks, except at designated crossings. This law exists because of the danger rail corridors pose. Trains can’t stop quickly, and pedestrians are often hard to see in time. If the victim entered the restricted access on the tracks by Irwindale Avenue, that could be a contributing factor.
The law also imposes responsibilities on train operators. Under general negligence principles, transit agencies must exercise reasonable care. This is especially true in urban areas where people may enter the tracks, even if they’re not supposed to. Train operators are expected to use horns, maintain clear sight lines, and follow all safety protocols. Because the LAFD and CHP responded, there may be video footage from nearby cameras that captured the Irwindale Avenue train collision. Whether the victim tried to cross, was stuck, or had a medical emergency can all affect legal responsibility.
What the Family Can Do
The family of the person who died on the tracks should contact a wrongful death attorney immediately. Even if it appears the pedestrian shouldn’t have been on the tracks, the family may still have a valid claim. Under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60, they can sue if evidence shows the transit agency or train operator failed to act with reasonable care.
An attorney can request the full CHP Irwindale Avenue train collision report, 911 audio, security footage, and witness interviews. The family must file a claim with the agency within six months under California’s Government Claims Act. That’s why time matters, waiting too long can limit their legal options. Legal help may offer the family not only a path to financial recovery, but also the answers they need about how and why their loved one died.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
