There are railroad tracks all over the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Most drivers pass over railroad tracks at least from time-to-time. While precautions are taken to prevent trains and cars from colliding, these types of collisions do happen.
According to Operation Lifesaver, a non-profit safety and awareness group, a 30-car freight train hitting your car uses the same amount of force equivalent to your car hitting an aluminum Coke can. In other words, the collision will crush your vehicle quickly and without resistance.
In 2017, there were 2,015 incidents at highway rail crossings in the United States. This resulted in 274 deaths and 807 injuries.
Who’s Responsible When a Train and Car Collide?
The answer depends on the particular circumstances of the crash. An investigation will reveal if the crash and your injuries were caused by:
- The railroad company. The railroad company that owns and operates the train involved in the crash could be responsible for the collision if it failed to properly train the engineer and conductor; the train crew was drunk, drugged, or drowsy; the train was traveling too fast; or there was a neglected maintenance issue that led to the wreck.
- The train designer or manufacturer. If the design of the train made it unsafe; or there was a manufacturing mistake in engine, individual car, or various parts that led to dangerous condition; then the designer or manufacturer of the train could be liable for any crashes that result.
- The track owner. Railroad track owners have a duty to keep the rails in good repair. This may include clearing vegetation so train crews have unobstructed views and making sure crossing lights and warning systems are in good working order.
Additionally, motorists could be liable if they went around railroad closure gates, ignored warning lights, or were otherwise negligent at train crossings.
Let a Railroad Injury Lawyer Protect Your Fair Recovery
If you were hurt or a loved one died in a train crash caused by negligence, you deserve to make a fair legal recovery. This may include compensation for all healthcare costs, lost income, out-of-pocket expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Our personal injury attorneys will help you get financial recovery you deserve by investigating the train crash; negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf; and taking your case to court if necessary to protect your rights.
Please call us or use the contact form on this page to schedule a free no-obligation consultation and to learn more about your rights and potential recovery.
