#United States #Washington #Personal Injury #Regan Zambri Long #WMATA

$1.6 Million Verdict Against WMATA

On May 2, 2025, Regan Zambri Long partners Patrick M. Regan and Christopher J. Regan celebrated a significant legal victory, obtaining a $1.6 million verdict against the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). The case revolved around a tragic incident in which a woman suffered a severe hip injury due to the mishandling of a subway train.

Incident Overview

The incident occurred on September 23, 2019, at the McPherson Square station. As a WMATA subway train came to a stop, passengers prepared to exit. Suddenly, without any warning, the train operator jerked the train forward. This unexpected movement caused our client to be thrown violently to the ground, resulting in a fractured hip requiring immediate surgical attention.

The injury has had lasting consequences, leaving the woman with a permanent limp and ongoing pain, forcing her to use a cane as a mobility aid.

Legal Justifications

According to the legal team at Regan Zambri Long, the train operator's actions represented a blatant violation of both the national standard of care and WMATA’s own Standard Operating Procedures. Notably, the procedures mandate that a train operator must alert passengers before moving a train again after it has stopped at a station.

Christopher J. Regan stated, “Verdicts like this send a clear message to WMATA and uphold the necessity to adhere to common-sense safety rules that are meant to protect the public.” This ruling serves as a crucial reminder of the duties and responsibilities transit authorities owe to their passengers.

Patrick M. Regan also expressed his admiration for their client, labeling her an “inspirational woman” and underscoring the significance of this verdict, which underscores the profound and lasting impact the injury has had on her life.

Implications and Future Actions

This landmark ruling not only highlights the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols but also sparks a dialogue about the broader issues of passenger safety in public transport systems. As WMATA has been urged to reassess its operational protocols following this verdict, the case continues to echo in legal discussions surrounding transit systems across the country.

Regan Zambri Long's continued advocacy will undoubtedly play a role in shaping policies to ensure that incidents like this do not reoccur, aiming for safer, more responsible operating methods within public transportation authorities.

About Regan Zambri Long PLLC

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., Regan Zambri Long PLLC focuses on providing top-tier legal representation primarily in personal injury cases. The firm's commitment to securing justice for victims of negligence remains steadfast, evident in their passionate efforts on behalf of injured clients within the DC Metro Area.

For more information about the firm and its services, visit reganfirm.com.