Brightline train hits, kills pedestrian on the inaugural day of expanded service
Calls for Enhanced Rail Safety Measures Amid Tragic Brightline Incident
As Brightline launched its Miami-to-Orlando service, high-speed trains unfortunately collided with and fatally injured a pedestrian in Florida.
New train services usually bring joy to commuters, offering a chance to ditch their cars and enjoy a convenient commute. However, today, as Brightline launched its first high-speed rail link between Miami and Orlando, the occasion is marred by tragedy. Regrettably, America’s deadliest rail line has claimed yet another pedestrian’s life.
Amid much anticipation, Brightline commenced its inaugural service from Miami to Orlando in Florida this morning. Reports indicate that the first run was fully booked, and with speeds reaching up to 125 mph, the journey takes just three and a half hours.
Tragically, mere moments before the inaugural Miami-to-Orlando train was scheduled to depart this morning, another devastating incident occurred as a Brightline train struck and fatally injured a pedestrian. According to reports from the Palm Beach Post, the Brightline service was passing through Delray Beach when the incident took place.
The victim, as of now unidentified by authorities, lost their life on the southbound tracks at the intersection of Southeast Second Avenue and Southeast Fourth Street in Delray Beach. The Palm Beach Post noted that the train had recently departed from the West Palm Beach station.
Although there was a barrier at the intersection between the Brightline tracks and Southeast Second Avenue, the rail line utilizes old FEC Railway tracks that offer limited protection to pedestrians walking alongside or crossing them.
This infrastructure, with its inherent risks, has led to Brightline being dubbed the deadliest railway in the United States. Over the past year, there have been incidents involving the line, including collisions with a car transporter, an SUV, and a vehicle stranded on its tracks.
While I strongly support expanding rail transportation, it’s crucial that governments and private enterprises prioritize investments in safety measures to safeguard both train passengers and the communities residing near the rail tracks.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
