LIGHT RAIL COLLISION IN SAN FRANCISCO

On 18 July 2009 at least 48 people were injured when a light rail train crashed into the rear end of a second train. At least four of the injured were in critical condition. The collision occurred between the West Portal and Castro stations at approximately 1500 local time. The single-car L-Taraval train crashed into the stationary K-Ingleside train at a speed of 20 to 23 miles per hour, which is twice the speed at which the trains normally travel. The driver had reportedly stopped the L train and switched the controls from automatic to manual before the crash, and did not attempt to use the emergency braking system. The accident caused delays on the K, L and M lines. Services had resumed by 19 July.