CHICAGO — A Cook County man is suing Union Pacific Railroad and Metra, based on a claim that he was struck by two commuter trains that were allegedly speeding in hazardous conditions after a snowstorm last year.
Charles J. Ford filed a lawsuit Jan. 28 in Cook County Circuit Court, alleging negligence against Union Pacific Railroad Co.; Metra, identified in the complaint as Northeast Illinois Regional Commuter Railroad Corp. and Commuter Rail Division of the Regional Transportation Authority; the RTA; and the Village of Arlington Heights.
According to the complaint, as Ford was crossing the southbound tracks at Arlington Heights Station on Feb. 1, 2015, he was struck by two outbound trains on tracks operated by Union Pacific. The suit says snow accumulation, wind and freezing temperatures, as well as deficient lighting and a lack of warning signs and shelter, hampered visibility and made conditions unsafe for passengers. Ford says he suffered multiple leg fractures and surgeries, cuts, and physical and mental scarring.
Ford seeks a jury trial and more than $50,000 for lost wages, medical expenses and other damages. He is representing himself.
Cook County Circuit Court Case number 2016-L00973