Train Derailment Crushes Man Under Gravel
A train conductor has died after several freight cars derailed near the SunRail station in Sanford Thursday morning. In a statement, the Florida Highway Patrol identified the victim as being 36-year-old Christopher Putfark of Deltona.
The derailment occurred on a track where construction is currently underway. The station is located at State Road 46 and Airport Boulevard. Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Highway Patrol officials say that a train that was pushing 10 freight cars loaded with gravel when four of the cars derailed from the tracks. The incident happened at about 6:30 a.m.
Officials say that Putfark was on the outside of the cars acting as a spotter. He was killed as a result of being crushed under the falling car and then buried in the gravel that spilled in the accident. Seminole County emergency personnel wheeled a stretcher to the scene as a crane was brought in to lift the turned-over rail car that pinned and killed Putfark. The aggregate inside the car would’ve increased the weight to more than 189,000 pounds.
At a press conference this morning, FHP Sgt. Kim Montes told reporters that the investigation was in its early stages, and the cause of the derailment hadn’t been determined.
It is an unfortunate fact that workplace accidents occur all too frequently, despite the efforts of companies to make their workers safe. When a worker is injured or loses their life on the job, they and their families deserve to receive the fullest amount of benefits and compensation for their injuries and adequately compensated for their loss. No has ever gone to work with the intention of getting hurt. Those who work around heavy equipment and on construction or industrial sites put their lives on the line every day. Medical costs, ongoing physical therapy, or facing the tragedy of funeral costs all play a part in a personal injury or accident settlement. In such tragic accidents, having an experienced attorney fighting on your side can a big difference in how your lawsuit is settled.
Our lawyers have been successfully representing clients in the Florida courts for many years. We are focused on getting you the best possible level of compensation for your injuries. When you call our office, you will be matched with one of our legal professionals who will go over the details of your case with you. They will then outline possible courses of action and can get the process toward your settlement claim started. We are here to help. Your initial consultation is always confidential and without cost or obligation to you.