With all passengers of the May 12 Amtrak Train 188 derailment accounted for, some victim services have begun to close down after the crisis. However, many resources still remain open for families seeking help as they recover from the tragedy.
Victim Resources through Amtrak
Amtrak opened an Incident Hotline at 800-523-9101 so families can call and find out the latest updates on passengers who were on the train. The company is encouraging passengers or their families to call that number with any questions.
Amtrak stated that it is working with those affected to help with their transportation, lodging, and medical bills and funeral expenses. (Victims should run any type of settlement offer by their attorney first.)
Many survivors are also waiting to collect their personal property. Passengers should continue to contact Amtrak’s hotline to determine when they will be able to recover property lost during the wreck. However, bear in mind that the damaged cars are still being examined and investigated, so some items may not yet be able to be recovered.
The Family Assistance Center at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown is now closed.
National Transportation Safety Board Train Accident Resources
The Transportation Disaster Assistance Division (TDA) of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provides aid and assistance to the victims of major transportation accidents. For any type of mass transit disaster, families can call the TDA hotline at 800-683-9369 to get the latest updates on the situation.
The TDA provides or assists with the following operations.
- Establishment of Family Assistance Center (since closed)
- Daily family briefings
- Crisis counseling (through Red Cross, mentioned below)
- Department of State provides services to families of foreign citizens affected by the accident
- Victim identification and recovery assistance
- Personal effects recovery assistance
Local Resources in the Philadelphia Area
The Red Cross stepped in to provide manpower and supplies in the aftermath of the wreck. Volunteers provided support, food, comfort kits, blankets, and clothing. The Red Cross also supplied area hospitals with blood products for victims in need of blood. You can phone the Red Cross in Philadelphia at 215-299-4000.
Cordisco & Saile LLC can answer any legal questions that victims or their families might have regarding filing a lawsuit or about any rumors they might hear about their rights. Reach us at 215-642-2335.
