After months of controversy surrounding gaps between Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) trains and station platforms, members of one commuter group accused the railroad Thursday of violating their civil rights.

A report released Thursday indicates alcohol was the primary factor in the death of a 19-year-old Minnesota woman at Woodside station last August, not the gap. However, the Disabled Riders Coalition believes if the LIRR abided by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act her death could have been avoided. The group claims any space between trains and platforms larger than three inches is unacceptable and in violation of the law.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has taken several steps to increase commuter awareness about gap safety, as well as measures to decrease the distance wherever possible. Disabled riders are also afforded extra assistance entering and exiting trains when necessary. However, the Disabled Riders Coalition maintains these acts are Band-Aids. Members claim the LIRR must do more to avoid a lawsuit.