Injuries sustained in vehicle-train accidents can be deadly. That is because of the difference in weight of a car and train. Victims need to consult with a Train Accident Lawyer in Bowie MD. Experts say some of the more serious accidents occur at railroad crossings.
Railroad Crossing Accidents
Over 60 percent of train accidents occur at railroad crossings without lights or a safety gate. Amazingly, many railroad crossings in smaller towns are not marked. Nonetheless, it is the railroad’s responsibility to make sure crossings are safe. Therefore, the railroad is liable for injuries that occur because of a lack of warning.
Other accidents happen because there are trees or other obstacles around the railroad crossing. Therefore, the train operator’s view of the crossing is blocked.
Injuries Vary In Scope
The most common injuries include loss of limbs, whiplash, broken bones and head injuries. It is not unusual for pedestrians to train victims. A recent article discussed a man walking on the tracks with head-phones on. Unfortunately, he lost his life because the train could not stop.
Train Derailments Are On The Rise
Talk to a Train Accident Lawyer in Bowie MD if you are a passenger on a train that derails. Most derailments are blamed on bad equipment, driver error and carrying too much cargo. Additionally, derailments happen when there are unexpected objects on the tracks. The railroad investigates all derailments to learn the cause.
Equipment Problems
Equipment issues that cause accidents include switching services that do not work. Likewise, the locomotive itself may be in bad shape. That is often due to using faulty reconditioned parts. In addition, employee negligence includes drivers using alcohol or driver fatigue.
In any event, injured parties are entitled to recover from the railroad. They are able to collect damages for medical expenses and lost wages. Further, damages include amounts for loss of the ability to earn and permanent injuries. Further, the family of deceased victims may also collect damages.
If the lawyer proves that the cause of the accident was reckless, the victim is entitled to punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future. Find more information by visiting a train lawyer’s website.
