Experienced Fort Lauderdale Railroad and Train Accident Lawyer
Fort Lauderdale Railroad and Train Accident Attorney
Find out why we have some of the best railroad and train accident lawyers
What is a Train Accident?
A train accident refers to any incident involving trains that results in damage to property, injuries, or even fatalities. Several different types of train accidents can occur, including derailments, collisions, level-crossing accidents, train platform accidents, and train crashes that result in toxic spills.
Passengers can suffer physical injuries, emotional distress, and medical expenses. Bystanders, motorists, and pedestrians near the accident site can also be injured or killed. Railroad workers are at risk of being injured or killed while performing their duties.
Types of Train Accidents
Train accidents can occur in various forms, each with its own unique set of circumstances and potential consequences.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, trains hit a person or vehicle in the United States nearly every two hours, and nearly 1,000 people are killed in train and railroad accidents each year. [1]
See more statistics on our Train Accident Statistics page.
Head-on Collision
A head-on collision in a train accident refers to a situation where two trains collide with each other while traveling in opposite directions on the same track. These accidents can have devastating consequences, resulting in severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of lives.
The consequences of a head-on collision in a train accident can be catastrophic. Common injuries suffered by victims include traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, broken bones, and emotional distress. The financial burden can be overwhelming, with victims facing extensive medical expenses, loss of income, and property damage.
Rear-end Collision
A rear-end collision is one of the types of train accidents that can occur, and it happens when one train crashes into the back of another train. Like other train collisions, rear-end collisions can have severe consequences and are often caused by various factors.
The causes of rear-end collisions in train accidents can vary. Human error, such as miscommunication or negligence by train operators, can lead to these accidents. Mechanical failures, such as defective signals or train equipment, can also play a role. Inadequate maintenance of trains or train tracks can increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
Derailment
Train derailments in Fort Lauderdale can occur due to various reasons, including failure to follow safety standards and faulty tracks. These incidents can have severe consequences and result in injuries to passengers and even fatalities.
One of the main causes of train derailments is the failure to adhere to safety standards. Negligence on the part of the train company or operator can include inadequate maintenance of trains, railroad tracks, and equipment, improper training of staff, or ignoring safety protocols. This can lead to mechanical failures or human error, increasing the likelihood of a derailment.
Crossing Accident
Crossing accidents are devastating occurrences that can result in severe injuries and even loss of life. These accidents typically occur when a vehicle or pedestrian is struck by a train at a road-level crossing. Several factors contribute to the high risk and dangers associated with these fatal accidents.
One of the common factors involved in crossing accidents is the failure to follow safety protocols. This can include disregarding warning signs, attempting to cross when the crossing barriers are down, or failing to yield to an oncoming train. Inadequate signage, unprotected crossings, and poor visibility can also contribute to these accidents.
Fire Outbreak and Explosion
Fire outbreaks and explosions may occur with train accidents, resulting in severe consequences for both passengers and surrounding communities. These incidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as faulty equipment, mechanical failures, or the transportation of hazardous materials.
Faulty equipment, such as malfunctioning engines or electrical systems, can lead to sparks or ignition sources that can start fires and trigger explosions. Additionally, mechanical failures, such as brake failures or wheel and axle issues, can generate excessive heat or friction, which can also ignite flammable materials and cause explosions.
Common Injuries of Train Accidents in Fort Lauderdale
In train accidents in Fort Lauderdale, victims can suffer from a variety of common injuries.
- Traumatic Brain Injury - This head injury results from a violent blow or jolt to the head, causing damage to the brain. Traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting effects on a victim's cognitive abilities, memory, and motor functions.
- Internal Injuries - The impact of a collision or derailment can cause organs to be damaged or ruptured. Internal bleeding can occur, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
- Chronic Pain - Physical pain is a widespread consequence of train wrecks. Victims may experience broken bones, spinal cord injuries, neck injuries, burns, and cuts that require immediate medical attention and ongoing treatment.
- Emotional Distress - Emotional pain experienced by train accident victims should not be overlooked. The trauma of being involved in a catastrophic event can lead to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other psychological conditions.
Victims of train accidents in Fort Lauderdale may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Train Accident?
Train accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens. In the event of a rail accident in Fort Lauderdale, several parties can be held responsible for the incident.
- Train conductors - Train conductors can be held liable for their actions or negligence that may have contributed to the accident. Whether it's speeding, distracted driving, or failure to comply with railroad safety protocols, train conductors have a duty of care to ensure the safety of passengers and others on the train tracks.
- Train companies - Train companies also bear responsibility for train accidents. They have a legal obligation to maintain proper safety standards, ensure regular maintenance of their train equipment, and adequately train their employees to minimize the risk of accidents.
- Manufacturers of trains and train equipment - Manufacturers of trains and train equipment can also be held accountable if their products are found to have defects in design or manufacture. These defects can significantly increase the chances of accidents and can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Track owners - Train owners, such as railroad companies, are responsible for maintaining safe and properly functioning tracks. Failure to inspect and repair train tracks can facilitate accidents, such as derailments or collisions. So, they can also be held liable.
- Motorists - Drivers of motor vehicles that disregard warning signs at railroad crossings and fail to yield the right-of-way can also be held liable for their contribution to train accidents.
Holding these parties accountable for their actions or lack of necessary actions is important in seeking justice and obtaining compensation for the victims of train accidents.
Why you Need a Fort Lauderdale Railroad and Train Accident Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a train accident in Fort Lauderdale, we offer legal expertise, which can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of determining liability and filing injury claims.
Filing claims for train accidents also involves a complex legal process, including gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and potentially going to court.
Our seasoned personal injury lawyers have the expertise and experience necessary to guide you through each step, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Goldberg & Loren Law Firm, we understand the intricacies of Fort Lauderdale train accidents and have a successful track record of securing fair settlements for our clients.
Contact our firm today for a free consultation, and let us fight for your rights. We are here to support you every step of the way and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Source
[1] Railroads | US Department of Transportation. (n.d.). Railroads | US Department of Transportation. https://www.transportation.gov/railroads
If you were recently injured in a train accident in Fort Lauderdale, please contact us today. We will assess the circumstances and determine if you have a potential case.
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