**Trigger Warning: This article contains mentions of graphic violence**
Even though the MBTA safety guidelines are clear on passenger safety rules and regulations, many recent incidents point out that people are in danger if they are unaware of the general safety guidelines. In an incident that occurred recently on Sunday, April 10, shortly after 12:30 a.m., a man from Dorchester wanting to commute unfortunately got his arm trapped in the train’s door and was dragged into a tunnel at Broadway Station in Boston. The man suffered fatal injuries and was unable to survive the tragic event. As the family of the man awaits comprehensive answers as to what happened, the MBTA stated that a full-fledged investigation is underway. The key aim is to deduce what happened that tragic night. As of now, no foul play has been suspected, but further investigation may reveal facts that may be hidden in the background of the situation. The National Transportation and Safety Board is looking into the situation as well.
“I’m usually very cognizant of the yellow line, so I go on quickly when everyone gets off, and if the doors are closing, I’m never near that yellow line that separates the doors,” stated Michelle Ciambella who is a regular traveler of the Red Line. The yellow line has been a marker for passengers onboarding a train, and one should be cautious not to try and hold the doors open or try to make it in the train right when the doors are closing. The door does automatically open in case someone tries to stick their hand in to enter the train, but if a mechanical error or sensor fault should occur at that moment, it can potentially jam your arm and cause one to be dragged along the tunnel if the person is unable to get themselves free.
There are also signs at several T stations which indicate that passengers should wait behind the yellow line until the train has arrived and come to a complete halt, and should also move behind the yellow line when the doors are closing. Despite these warnings, people are seen trying to jump into the train right as the doors are shutting, and this poses serious risks as described above.
Another piece of advice for people traveling on the MBTA is to travel light with less items, as it makes entry and exit from the train quicker. There was a man who was carrying his bicycle and a bunch of other items, and when it was time to exit, he forced the door open to unload all his items and exited shortly afterward. But in case of a mechanical error or technical fault with the door, the damage to his property or to the man himself would have been potentially possible. The doors offer relatively short times for people to enter and exit, and traveling light will definitely help get on or off quickly.
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the MBTA to ensure these trains are regularly checked for technical and mechanical issues. The train is roughly over 50 years old and needs to be inspected at frequent intervals to avoid such mishaps. After all, a life was tragically lost, but only the investigation can further explain what transpired that night as the family eagerly awaits answers. Deep condolences to the mourning family. It is imperative that everyone reviews the MBTA safety guidelines once again to ensure their personal safety while traveling.