Due to the size, power, and momentum of locomotives, any accident involving trains can quickly turn into a disaster. If a train collides with a vehicle, there is doubt as to who will suffer the most in this accident. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why a train accident could occur, most of which are caused by the careless or irresponsible behavior of others.
At Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., we believe that those who have suffered in a train wreck due to the negligence of another deserve full and generous compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property repair costs, and other expenses. To learn more about how we can help you during this difficult time, call the determined yet compassionate Northglenn railroad injury lawyers of Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., today.
Train Derailment
Train operators must carefully monitor their vehicles’ progress on the rails, making any adjustments necessary to prevent derailment accidents. This includes paying attention to their trains’ speed, obstacles on the rails, and problems with tracks that may cause locomotives to jump the rails. Should they fail to do so, it can lead to destructive accidents that can injure and even kill any passengers and crew members aboard the train.
Train Defects
Train defects and malfunctions can be devastating, potentially causing accidents ranging from collisions to derailments. Due to the often catastrophic repercussions of these incidents, train companies have the important responsibility of regularly inspecting their locomotives and replacing or repairing any damaged or worn-out items. Additionally, train parts manufacturers must take steps to avoid any design or manufacturing defects that can lead to mechanical malfunctions. If either of these parties fails in their respective duties, they can be held accountable for any ensuing train accidents.
Lack of Railroad Crossing Safety Gates
Railroad crossings at busy streets must be clearly marked by safety gates to help people know when and where to stop before the tracks. If these gates are improperly installed or maintained, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians may be put at risk of collisions with powerful locomotives. Unfortunately, these train accidents are often catastrophic, and individuals injured in train collisions may be left facing life-altering consequences including permanent disabilities.
Improperly Marked Railroad Crossings
Railroad crossings can present a major safety hazard for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. If these crossings aren’t properly marked a safe distance away from the actual crossing, people may be too close to the tracks when a train comes through. When this results in an accident, the repercussions are almost always extremely severe or even fatal.
Ensuring that a railroad is clearly marked and visible is an extremely important duty, and when a municipal agency or train company fails to do this, they should bear the consequences of this negligence.
Improperly Maintained Railroad Tracks
Railroad tracks are an essential part of a functioning railroad system. Without properly maintained and safe tracks, a train could be derailed or collide with other trains and/or vehicles. Accidents such as these can be particularly devastating, causing hundreds of people to be injured or killed.
Conductor Error
Train conductors have a responsibility to other employees and passengers onboard trains to pay the utmost attention to their work and the safety of the locomotive. A serious mistake in the operation of the train may lead to dangerous scenarios such as derailments and collisions that can result in devastating injuries and even death for those involved.
Let a Northglenn Train Accident Attorney Help You Seek Compensation
Railroad companies have a responsibility to enact and adhere to strict safety protocol in order to prevent train accidents from occurring. Train companies that fail to follow these safety precautions can seriously threaten the health of their workers as well as any passengers aboard their locomotives. However, in order to discourage this train company negligence, victims of locomotive accidents caused by railroad company errors are legally entitled to seek compensation for any damages they experience, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Work with a Northglenn railroad injury lawyer to learn more about your options for recovery.
