North Miami Beach, FL: Brightline Train Collision Leaves One Hospitalized

North Miami Beach, FL (January 8th, 2025) – Authorities confirmed that one person has been hospitalized after a Brightline train collided with their car early Wednesday morning in North Miami Beach. The accident occurred around 10 a.m. at a railway crossing near Northeast 165th Terrace and Biscayne Boulevard. According to Local 10 News, a video shows the passenger car running a red light shortly before the crash occurred, while the crossing arms were down.

The injured individual was transported by ground to a nearby trauma center. No information about the person’s condition has been released. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the crash at this time.

Brightline trains are known for their high speeds, and have been involved in multiple Florida railway crossing accidents. These types of accidents typically result in fatalities and serious injuries, due to the size and intense speeds of the trains. At least 97 people have been killed in accidents with Brightline trains in Florida since 2017. A recent series of Brightline train accident deaths prompted the company to take additional safety precautions last year, including the installation of exit gates and increased outreach about railroad crossing safety.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a railway crossing accident involving a Brightline train, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Magazine & Light Law Group today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.

Staying Safe at Railway Crossings

The safety barriers at railway crossings exist for a reason: they are meant to dissuade vehicles and pedestrians from crossing the tracks when a train is approaching. Neglecting to obey these barriers can lead to serious injury or even death. The few minutes you’d save by not waiting for the train to pass are not worth the risks. 

Most railway crossings are equipped with flashing lights to warn drivers and pedestrians that the barriers are coming down, and there is some sort of auditory signal as well. Adhering to these warnings help you and your loved ones stay safe and avoid a train collision. 

Remember: trains travel at high speeds. Because of their massive size, they are unable to come to a quick stop, should someone be on the tracks. Additionally, trains’ larger size makes collisions more deadly than getting hit by a car or other vehicle.

Ways vehicles and pedestrians can stay safe at railway crossings include:

• Stopping at least 15 feet from the tracks when a train is approaching.
• Obeying any posted signs and warnings.
• Checking for other trains before crossing after a train has passed.
• Avoiding stopping on the tracks for any reason.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Train Accident?

Liability in a train accident depends on the specific circumstances, but those who may be held responsible typically include:

The Driver

If the driver of the motor vehicle involved in the train accident disobeyed the safety barriers and warnings, they can be held responsible for the resulting accident.

The Train Company

If the train operator’s negligence, poor maintenance of the train, or malfunctioning safety equipment contributed to the accident, the train company can be held responsible for the injuries incurred.

Government Entities

In some cases, a poorly designed or maintained infrastructure can contribute to a train accident. When this happens, the government entities responsible for these infrastructures can be held liable. 

Damages You Can Receive in a Train Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a train accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the losses you’ve suffered. The damages available aim to address the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the incident. These damages can vary depending on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the accident, and the impact it has had on your life.  You may be entitled to the following:

• Medical Expenses
• Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
• Pain and Suffering
• Emotional Distress
• Property Damage
• Wrongful Death (in the event a death occurred due to the accident)

An experienced personal injury lawyer will evaluate your case and help you understand more about the damages you may be able to claim.

Why Choose Magazine & Light Law Group?

The experienced attorneys at the Magazine & Light Law Group have a proven track record of helping injured victims recover maximum compensation in personal injury cases. When you work with our law firm, we will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident to determine all responsible parties. Our team will also manage all communications and negotiations with insurance companies and other involved parties on your behalf. If your case proceeds to trial, we will vigorously advocate for your rights as an injured victim in court. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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