There are less trains in operation now than there were decades ago, but trains are still a very vital part of our economy. Most trains pass through fairly rural, unpopulated parts of the country, but many pass through cities and towns. Train safety can be a major concern at intersections.
It has been estimated that a person or a vehicle is hit by a train every three hours in the United States. If a person is in an accident with a train, he or she is almost 20 times more likely to be killed than if he or she was in an accident with a standard vehicle. Most accidents between trains and automobiles occur because of reckless behavior on the part of the driver.
It’s important that as a driver, you take precautions while driving around trains and train tracks. Do not always assume that the lights and the arms are always working at railroad crossings – instead, look and listen for trains. Also, do not walk or play on train tracks – even if you never see a train on a train track, it does not mean that the track is inactive. It is illegal and dangerous to walk or drive on train tracks.
If you are in an accident with a train, it’s important that you take legal steps to protect your rights. Railroad companies have teams of attorneys on their side who will most likely very vigorously defend against a lawsuit. You need to have an advocate on your side as well.
If you have been injured in a Los Angeles train track accident, call me, Conal Doyle, Los Angeles personal injury attorney at 310-385-0567. My team can help. Call today to learn more or to schedule a free consultation.