As the urban population in the United States continues to grow, especially in Colorado, the need for alternative transportation like light rail continues to expand. With the expansion of train systems like light rail, coupled with growth of populations into rural areas with poorly marked railroad crossings, the number of train related accidents has increased.
Consider the following statistics regarding railroad accidents:
- Every 90 minutes there is a train collision or derailment.
- Every year there are approximately 3,000 train accidents.
- Every year approximately 1,000 people lose their lives as a result of train accidents.
- A train carrying hazardous material derails on average once every 2 weeks in the United States.
- More than 50% of all railroad accidents occur at unprotected crossings and, according to the Federal Railroad Administration, over 80% of railroad crossings don’t have adequate warning devices.
- Statistics may show that although “vehicle v. train collisions” have decreased in the last few years, “pedestrian v. train collisions” have increased.
- The most common types or railroad accidents are collisions with other trains, derailment, collisions with passenger vehicles, improperly maintained tracks, mechanical failure and driver inexperience and fatigue.
The lawyers at the Kaudy Law Firm have the knowledge and skill that is needed to effectively pursue all types of serious injury cases, including injuries or deaths resulting from train accidents. Train accidents cases can be extremely complex and often require an immediate and comprehensive accident reconstruction.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, please call or email the Kaudy Law Firm today. As always, an assessment of your case is free.