Brightline train slams into woman’s car in Fort Lauderdale leaving her injured

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – A woman is recovering after her vehicle was struck by a Brightline train in Fort Lauderdale late Sunday night, leaving her with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

According to Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, the crash happened shortly before midnight at the railroad crossing near Sunrise Boulevard. The impact caused the vehicle to be dragged several hundred feet along the tracks before coming to a stop in the 400 block of NE Flagler Drive.

Surveillance video from the area captured the dramatic moments when the Brightline train collided with the car. The footage showed sparks flying as the train continued moving down the tracks while pushing and dragging the vehicle.

Despite the force of the crash, the driver was able to escape from the car without assistance before emergency crews arrived. Fire rescue personnel said they found the woman on the ground next to the damaged vehicle. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of injuries that were considered serious but not life-threatening.

Witness Victor Carvalho said he saw the incident unfold and immediately called 911. He also climbed over a fence to reach the woman and provide help while waiting for emergency responders to arrive.

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“We see that the train was coming in and the rail was coming down so in the intersection there was a car that came in and went through the railings,” Carvalho said.

The crash caused a significant emergency response in the area as crews worked to assist the injured driver and assess the scene. The circumstances that led to the vehicle entering the crossing as the train approached were not immediately released.

The incident highlights the potential dangers at railroad crossings, where drivers are reminded to remain alert and follow warning signals, gates, and other safety measures. Authorities have not announced whether any citations or further actions will result from the crash.

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Brightline, a privately operated passenger rail service connecting communities in South Florida and beyond, has previously emphasized the importance of railroad crossing safety as train activity continues to increase throughout the region.

The investigation into the collision remains ongoing as officials work to determine the full details surrounding the crash. The woman’s condition after being taken to the hospital was not further disclosed.