A high-speed Brightline train collided with a car stuck on the tracks in Broward County this Sunday. Images shared by the site Only in Broward captured the moment the train hit the vehicle. It remains unclear how the car ended up at the site of the collision, far from the railroad crossing.
"Around 7:00 p.m. today, the Brightline train hit a car that appeared to be trapped on the tracks in the Hollywood area. No injuries have been reported at this time. We will update as the story develops," the site stated on its social media channels.
Since its inception, several accidents involving high-speed trains have been reported in Florida. In mid-December 2023, a driver narrowly escaped being hit by a Brightline train after their vehicle inexplicably got stuck between the barriers.
A video shared by Only in Dade showed the tense moment when the driver, whose car was trapped between the safety barriers, tried to move it to avoid being hit. After several attempts, the driver decided to move aside upon hearing the locomotive's horn, which did not stop and ended up hitting the front of the car. The incident occurred in North Miami, and no one was injured.
In late October of that year, a Brightline train struck a person in Miami, resulting in their death. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded to the scene but could only confirm the pedestrian's death. At the time, it was suspected to be a suicide.
In August 2023, a car ended up stuck on the railroad tracks in Miami for unknown reasons, causing a temporary halt to train services. The driver reportedly made a wrong turn and got stuck on the tracks. A Brightline train, which connects Miami to Orlando, had to stop at the scene.
A month earlier, another train accident occurred in Miami when a Brightline train hit a car that disregarded the safety barrier. The incident happened near Midtown and was captured by bystanders on their phones. The videos clearly showed the vehicle stopping on the other side of the barrier, after going under it, and even advancing a bit further before the train passed.
Brightline Train Accidents in Florida: Key Questions Answered
As incidents involving Brightline trains continue to occur, many people have questions regarding safety measures and accident prevention. Here are some key questions answered to provide clarity on the issue.
What safety measures are in place for Brightline trains?
Brightline trains are equipped with advanced safety systems, including automatic train control and positive train control to prevent collisions. Additionally, there are safety barriers and warning signals at crossings.
Why do vehicles get stuck on the tracks?
Vehicles can get stuck on tracks due to driver error, mechanical failure, or poor signage. In some cases, drivers may attempt to cross the tracks despite warning signals, leading to accidents.
What should drivers do if their car gets stuck on the tracks?
If a car gets stuck on the tracks, drivers should immediately exit the vehicle and move to a safe distance. They should then call emergency services to report the incident and notify the railway company.
How can accidents involving Brightline trains be reduced?
Accidents can be reduced by improving driver education on railroad crossing safety, enhancing signage and barriers at crossings, and utilizing technology to detect and prevent vehicles from getting stuck on tracks.