When a train derails or has a collision with another train or automobile, the results are often catastrophic. Passengers on the train can suffer serious injuries or death. Railway companies have to maintain high standards to protect their passengers. When someone has been injured or killed in a train accident, and the accident’s cause lies with the railway company, they need to be held responsible and provide adequate compensation for those injuries or wrongful death. You should consult with a personal injury attorney in Marietta as soon as possible if you or a loved one is a victim.
Underlying Causes: Train Accidents In Marietta
In some cases, the driver of a vehicle tries to cross train tracks, or stops on the tracks, in the path of an oncoming train, despite signal or warning lights and bars. This type of train accident accounts for 96% of train accidents. Also common are train derailments, trains colliding with other trains, and trains colliding with pedestrians.
There can also be train malfunctions. The railroad company must ensure that trains are well maintained and in full, proper functioning order. This includes the maintenance of railroad crossing gates and lights. They also must ensure the safety of their passengers. Of course, there can be operator error as well. The train operator might be distracted, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or even asleep.
Train derailments are another cause of accidents. Most commonly, they are the result of equipment that has malfunctioned or defects involving the track itself. Other reasons include the train going too fast and the operator not correctly applying the brakes.
The Investigation And Your Injury Claim
Train accidents can be very complicated. An investigation would typically include discovering the speed of the train and the speed limit where the accident occurred, whether there were any crossings at that point, what the crossing regulations were, whether there were any warnings posted in the area and other details. Federal and state agencies will be involved in the investigation. Suppose negligence causing injury or death is found on the part of the train conductor, the engineer, another employee, or defective or malfunctioning equipment. In that case, the railroad company could be held liable.
Trains carry a black box that functions as a recorder of the train’s speed, braking controls, and many other operational aspects. This is crucial in an accident investigation. A high-quality Marietta train accident lawyer will inform the rail company in writing, advising them to preserve all the evidence they have found. Otherwise, evidence that points to liability on the railroad company could be lost or destroyed.
In train accidents, the train company representatives will be on the scene very quickly to investigate. They will be gathering relevant information and attempting to settle any claims as fast as possible. If you were injured, you must have an attorney representing you.
Are You Looking For A Lawyer For A Personal Injury Claim In Marietta?
At Jones & Swanson, we are skilled at filing claims for victims of train accidents, as well as determining all possible liable parties. This includes taking measures to see that critical evidence is preserved. When someone is injured or killed in a train accident, and our investigation shows the fault lies with the train company, our dedicated and experienced team will follow through to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Contact Our Firm Today At (770) 427-5498 To Get Started With Your Claim.
