Here in New York City, we always hear stories about people suffering serious or even fatal personal injuries in the subway system. Falls from platforms, malfunctioning doors on train cars and slip, trip and fall accidents are just a few of the hazards facing the commuting public. However, it's also important to remember that this elevated risk injury extends to those people who work for the subway.

To illustrate, consider the recent case of Michael L., a veteran subway operator who suffered severe personal injuries in a horrific accident last Thursday while working at the 239th Street Yard.

Reports indicate that Michael L. -- who decided to work an overtime shift on what would normally be his day off -- was attempting to connect two different subway cars using a 200-pound metal tool referred to as a coupler when he accidentally dropped it onto the electrified third rail located immediately below him.