A car was struck by a commuter rail train in Cambridge last evening, authorities reported. A 24-year-old driver was hit by an MBTA Commuter Rail train at the intersection of Galilei Way and Main Street around 11:30 PM on Monday. The driver claimed distraction by his mobile phone led him to ignore the safety warnings of an approaching train, as per the MBTA Transit Police post from X.
11/11 1130PM Galilei Way & Main Street Cambridge a 24y/o driver of a 2018 Dodge claims he was distracted by his phone & ignored the safety warnings of an incoming #MBTA CR train. The vehicle was struck at a low speed. V towed. Driver cited. NO injuries. pic.twitter.com/1Ge6qdih1g
— MBTA Transit Police (@MBTATransitPD) November 12, 2024
According to the MBTA Transit Police, there were no injuries reported from the incident, which occurred at a low speed. The vehicle, a 2018 Dodge, was subsequently towed from the scene. The driver, whose identity hasn't been disclosed, received a citation for the mishap. The MBTA authorities have frequently cautioned against the use electronic devices while driving, a message that holds renewed significance in the wake of this near-miss.
This is not an isolated event, as recent years have seen a spike in incidents involving vehicles and trains at grade crossings. The MBTA, alongside other public safety organizations, emphasizes the importance of adhering to traffic laws around train tracks. Public campaigns have been mounted to increase awareness about the dangers of driving distractions, especially near train crossings, where the stakes are invariably high.
The MBTA has not released further information regarding any potential disruptions to commuter rail service as a result of the accident. However, travelers were cautioned to anticipate possible delays throughout the network as investigation and response efforts were underway. The transit police's report underlines a continuous challenge—ensuring that drivers remain attentive in an age when the pull of a smartphone screen often proves stronger than the instinct for self-preservation.
