Tri-Rail Train Crashes Into Vehicle in Opa-locka: No Injuries Reported, But Investigation Underway

A Tri-Rail commuter train collided with a vehicle in Opa-locka Thursday morning, prompting a multi-agency emergency response and delaying several train routes, according to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and Tri-Rail officials.

The crash happened near Ali Baba Avenue and Northwest 22nd Avenue, a busy corridor where vehicle-train conflicts have previously raised safety concerns for residents and commuters.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded to reports of a crash between a vehicle and a northbound Tri-Rail train. Video posted online showed a heavily damaged car being towed from the tracks after the collision.

According to Tri-Rail:

• Train P608 was delayed
• The incident affected Tri-Rail’s designated “school train” service
• No passengers, crew members, or vehicle occupants reported injuries

Officials have not yet confirmed why the vehicle ended up on the tracks, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Crashes like these often occur when:

• A driver attempts to cross the tracks despite warnings
• A vehicle stalls or becomes stuck on the crossing
• Gates malfunction or fail to fully deploy
• Poor visibility, weather, or traffic congestion affects driver judgment

In South Florida, Tri-Rail and Brightline collisions have increased in recent years, making grade-crossing safety a critical public concern.

Legal Considerations After a Train–Vehicle Crash

Even though no injuries were reported in this incident, crashes involving commuter trains can create major legal and liability questions, including:

1. Was the vehicle lawfully on the tracks?

Under Florida Statute §316.1575, drivers must stop when warning devices activate at railroad crossings. If the driver went around lowered gates or ignored warnings, they may be liable for damages.

2. Were the crossing signals functioning properly?

If the crossing gates malfunctioned, potential liability may extend to:

• Tri-Rail / South Florida Regional Transportation Authority
• Miami-Dade County
• Signal maintenance contractors

3. Could Tri-Rail or the train operator be at fault?

Operators must follow strict speed, horn, and braking protocols. Failure to comply may expose the agency to negligence claims.

4. Could this incident support a future property-damage or injury claim?

Even in crashes without immediate injuries, victims sometimes later report:

• Neck and back injuries
• Emotional trauma
• Financial losses due to vehicle damage or inability to work

Consulting an experienced attorney helps preserve evidence and protect a potential claim.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Train-Crossing Crash

Individuals involved in these collisions—or witnesses—should:

✔ Seek immediate medical evaluation, even if symptoms appear mild
✔ Document the scene, including crossing gates, warning lights, and signage
✔ Obtain the train number and agency information
✔ Request surveillance footage, which is often available at crossings
✔ Avoid giving statements to insurance companies without legal counsel

Train-related claims can become complex quickly due to the number of agencies involved and the strict federal and state regulations that govern passenger rail systems.

Flanagan & Bodenheimer Helps Victims of Train Accidents Across South Florida

Our firm represents victims injured in train-vehicle collisions, pedestrian strikes, and railroad crossing failures. We handle a limited caseload, ensuring that every client receives direct attorney attention and a detailed investigation into what went wrong.

We fight to uncover:

• Malfunctioning crossing arms
• Signal timing errors
• Operator negligence
• Poor roadway or track design
• Inadequate signage or visibility

If you, a loved one, or a family member has been involved in a train-vehicle collision anywhere in Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County, contact us for a free and confidential consultation.