Types of Train Accidents
Since the early 1s, trains have served Americans for a diverse range of purposes. To this day, trains remain a viable source of transportation, especially for inner city residents or companies seeking to ship supplies across the United States. Like other forms of transportation, such as automobiles, trains are prone to accidents. Like automobile accidents, train accidents can often be catastrophic, resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in property damage, horrific, crippling injuries, and even death. Therefore, it is important to understand what types of train accidents exist and what your rights are if you are a victim.
Derailment
Derailment occurs when a train runs off of the railing on the train track. There are multiple factors that can potentially cause a derailment accident. The issue can be as simple as a cracked or broken railing somewhere along the trail track, which can be caused by poor maintenance or installation. Other times, the problem exists in the improper operation of control systems. or example, railing that is not properly aligned at railroad junctions can cause a derailment. On rarer occasions, the fault lies in the wheels of the train itself. If a company or train operator knew of these hazards before an accident and failed to resolve the issue, then the victim may be able to file a claim for negligence.
Railroad Crossing Collision
Railroad crossing collisions are one of the deadlier types of train accidents. Like derailments, the causes of these accidents are numerous. One of the more common factors is the fault of an automobile driver, who ignores the warnings and signs, attempts to cross a railroad before the train passes by. If the driver's vehicle becomes stuck in the railing, or does not have sufficient time to cross, serious injuries (such as brain damage) or death are likely to result. Other factors, however, can lie in the fault of the train operator or company. Warning signs, bells, and crossing gates may malfunction, failing to warn automobile drivers of the approaching train. Train operators may also fail to sound the train's whistle when approaching a crossing. These are both grounds for filing a negligence claim.
Collision with Other Trains
This type of accident is one of, if not the most, dangerous type of train accident. Two vehicles, each weighing thousands of pounds, smashing together at high speeds can only produce devastating damage to passengers and property. Factors of these collisions are similar to the others listed thus far. Train operators may fail to use control systems correctly, resulting in two trains heading towards each other on the same route.
Are you a victim of a train accident? At Colley & Colley Law in East Texas, we will help you understand your options and fight for the rights and compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced lawyer today.