Brightline Train Strikes Vehicle in Dania Beach

Dania Beach, FL (August 28th, 2024) – On Wednesday afternoon, a Brightline train collided with an unmarked Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) vehicle in Dania Beach, Florida. The incident occurred around 12:15 p.m. near the intersection of Northwest First Street and Northwest Fourth Avenue.

Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue quickly responded to the scene. Aerial footage captured by 7Skyforce revealed significant damage to the SUV, which was seen alongside the railroad tracks. The front end of the Brightline train was also damaged by the impact of the collision.

The deputy operating the unmarked vehicle reportedly sustained minor injuries and was transported to Broward Health Medical Center for treatment. At this time, no other injuries have been reported.

Local authorities have closed the roadway in the vicinity of the accident as they conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. The closure is expected to remain in effect until the investigation is complete, and the area is cleared.

As the investigation unfolds, more details may emerge about the factors that led to this collision between a law enforcement vehicle and a passenger train. These details may help in determining who was at fault for the accident.

Safety at Railroad Crossings: A Crucial Reminder

The experienced personal injury lawyers at Magazine & Light would like to remind Floridians about the importance of vigilance and safety around railroad crossings, even for emergency vehicles. Railroad crossings pose significant risks to all road users, and it’s essential to understand and follow proper safety practices. By following these safety guidelines and remaining vigilant, we can all contribute to preventing tragic accidents at railroad crossings.

1. Always expect a train: Trains can come from either direction at any time. Never assume you know the schedule, and don’t assume that just because the gates are not lowered, there is no train coming.
2. Obey all warning signs and signals: Flashing lights, gates, and signs are there for your protection. Disobeying them could result in severe injuries or death.
3. Never try to beat a train or drive around lowered gates: Trains are often moving faster and are closer than they appear. Shaving a few minutes off of your travel time is not worth the risk.
4. Stop at least 15 feet from the tracks: This applies when signals are active or a train is visible. Trains can kick up rocks, debris, or drop loose cargo. 
5. If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, evacuate immediately: Get everyone out and move far away from the tracks. Call the emergency number posted at the crossing or dial 911.
6. Watch for second trains: After one train passes, make sure another isn’t approaching before proceeding through the crossing.
7. Avoid distractions: Stay alert and avoid using phones or other devices when approaching and crossing tracks.
8. Be especially cautious at night or in bad weather: Visibility can be severely reduced, making it harder to see approaching trains.
9. Report any malfunctioning signals or unsafe conditions: Contact local law enforcement or the railroad company.

Brightline trains have a maximum operating speed of 125 mph, and an average speed of 69 mph. Train accidents are often catastrophic or deadly due to the size and speed of these trains. There have been more than 100 fatalities connected to Brightline train accidents since 2017. In an AP analysis released in February 2022, Brightline averaged one fatality per 35,000 miles – the highest rate of train-related deaths in the nation. 

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a train accident, it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly. An experienced train accident attorney at Magazine & Light Law Group in Clearwater can help protect your rights and pursue any compensation you may be entitled to receive.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association