Causes Of Train Accidents

cartwrightlaw - July 25, 2023 -

Although train accidents aren’t as common as car, trucking, or pedestrian accidents, they do happen. According to data released by the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration, Georgia, Texas, and Ohio were the states with the most train accidents between 2018 and 2021, resulting in billions of dollars in damages. However, California also has its fair share of accidents, with 13 reported within four years. 

Unfortunately, train accidents often result in serious injuries and loss of life, but if you have recently been involved in one, you can get help. Should you hire a qualified Santa Rosa injury attorney from The Cartwright Law Firm, you have a better chance of building a strong claims case to achieve a positive settlement outcome. 

Our law firm will work alongside you to help with your legal woes so that you can focus on recovery. If you want to learn more about train accidents and their causes, you can continue reading below. 

What Are The Different Types Of Trains Accidents? 

Before we have a look at the top causes of train accidents in Santa Rosa, it’s an excellent idea to learn more about the different types of train accidents. There are numerous types of train accidents because there are several types of trains. 

These include passenger trains, freight trains, light rail trains, commuter trains, high-speed trains, and tourist trains. Some of the major types of train accidents involving these trains include the following: 

• Explosions or machine-related errors
• Collisions with passenger vehicles or trucks
• Derailed trains
• Collisions with railway debris
• Collisions with other trains

Unfortunately, any of the above accidents can lead to massive amounts of destruction and serious injuries – not to mention life-threatening scenarios. This is unsurprising considering the power, speed, and weight of trains. Should you have been involved in one of these train accidents, you should consider speaking with one of our attorneys. 

What Are the Main Causes of Train Accidents? 

Now that you know more about the types of train accidents, we can investigate their common causes. Have a look below to learn more about these causes to be more prepared and aware of what could happen.

Negligence

Negligence stands as a significant cause of train accidents, often resulting from human error or oversight. Train operators or crew members failing to adhere to safety protocols, signal violations, or distracted and tired driving can lead to disastrous consequences.

In addition to human negligence, negligent maintenance practices, including inadequate inspections, repairs, or equipment failures, can also contribute to accidents. Unfortunately, negligence can also extend to the responsible authorities, such as railroad companies or government entities, failing to address known safety hazards or neglecting infrastructure maintenance. 

By neglecting their duty to ensure safe operations, these acts of negligence can result in tragic train accidents, causing injuries, loss of life, property damage, and long-lasting psychological trauma for victims and their families.

Mechanical Failures 

In many instances, a railway employee, train operator, and railway company can do everything they can to ensure nothing untoward happens, but train accidents can still occur. 

This is because trains are large pieces of machinery with numerous complex moving parts and technical systems. Each of these aspects has to work perfectly in conjunction with one another for a train to operate as it should in a safe manner. 

Unfortunately, there are times when no train accident can be prevented because of mechanical failures. Although not as common as other train accident causes, train accidents do happen because of defective parts and other mechanical issues like electrical shorts, failing brakes, and engine problems. 

Defective and Derailed Train Tracks

Defective train tracks are another factor contributing to train accidents. Issues such as track misalignment, worn-out or damaged rails, improper maintenance, or inadequate inspections can lead to train accidents, injuries, and loss of life. 

Often something as simple as objects inadvertently left on the tracks where the train is expected to pass poses a deadly threat. That’s why it is imperative for conductors to remain constantly vigilant of their surroundings in order to promptly and safely address potential dangers. 

Unfortunately, there are instances where conductors fail to spot these obstacles altogether or in time to prevent a collision. If you were involved in an accident that surrounded defective or derailed train tracks, our law firm might be able to assist you. 

Speeding Trains

Speeding trains pose a grave risk to both passengers and the surrounding environment. When trains exceed safe speed limits, they have reduced maneuverability and increased braking distances, making it difficult to respond to unexpected obstacles or hazards. 

Since this is the case, excessive speed increases the likelihood of derailments, especially on curves or poorly maintained tracks. It also reduces the train’s ability to stop in time to prevent collisions with other trains, vehicles, or pedestrians at crossings. 

What Are Some Of The Common Injuries Seen In Train Accident Cases?

Now that you know more about the causes of train accidents, we’ve discussed some of the common injuries seen in train accident cases. Have a look below to learn more about these injuries, and if you suffered an injury like the ones listed below, it might be time to consider speaking with an attorney about compensation. 

• Head and brain injuries: Train accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, skull fractures, or brain hemorrhages due to impacts or sudden stops.
• Spinal cord injuries: Severe jolts or impacts during train accidents can lead to spinal cord injuries, causing paralysis, loss of sensation, or impaired mobility.
• Bone fractures: Train accidents often cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis due to collisions, falls, or being trapped in a wreckage.
• Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash, sprains, strains, and contusions are common soft tissue injuries resulting from sudden movements or impacts during train accidents.
• Internal organ injuries: Train accidents can cause internal injuries such as internal bleeding, organ perforation, or damage to vital organs due to blunt force trauma.
• Burns: In the event of a train fire or electrical malfunction, passengers may suffer burns ranging from minor to severe, leading to scarring or disfigurement.
• Crush injuries: Passengers may experience crush injuries when trapped between train cars, platforms, or other objects, often resulting in severe trauma, amputations, or death.
• Smoke inhalation and toxic exposure: Train accidents involving fires or hazardous materials can lead to smoke inhalation, chemical exposure, or respiratory problems.

Speak With A Santa Rosa Train Accident Attorney Today To Discuss Your Case

As you can see, there are many causes of train accidents. Fortunately, if you have been involved in a train accident and have suffered injuries or damages to personal property, you can speak with a Santa Rosa train accident attorney. One of our attorneys at The Cartwright Law Firm can help you seek legal recourse and compensation. 

We will work alongside you to build a strong case and better your chances of receiving a fair settlement. So if you’re in need of assistance, you can contact us here, and one of our legal representatives will reach out to arrange an obligation-free consultation. 

Although train accidents aren’t as common as car, trucking, or pedestrian accidents, they do happen. According to data released by the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration, Georgia, Texas, and Ohio were the states with the most train accidents between 2018 and 2021, resulting in billions of dollars in damages. However, California also has its fair share of accidents, with 13 reported within four years. 

Unfortunately, train accidents often result in serious injuries and loss of life, but if you have recently been involved in one, you can get help. Should you hire a qualified Santa Rosa injury attorney from The Cartwright Law Firm, you have a better chance of building a strong claims case to achieve a positive settlement outcome. 

Our law firm will work alongside you to help with your legal woes so that you can focus on recovery. If you want to learn more about train accidents and their causes, you can continue reading below. 

What Are The Different Types Of Trains Accidents? 

Before we have a look at the top causes of train accidents in Santa Rosa, it’s an excellent idea to learn more about the different types of train accidents. There are numerous types of train accidents because there are several types of trains. 

These include passenger trains, freight trains, light rail trains, commuter trains, high-speed trains, and tourist trains. Some of the major types of train accidents involving these trains include the following: 

• Explosions or machine-related errors
• Collisions with passenger vehicles or trucks
• Derailed trains
• Collisions with railway debris
• Collisions with other trains

Unfortunately, any of the above accidents can lead to massive amounts of destruction and serious injuries – not to mention life-threatening scenarios. This is unsurprising considering the power, speed, and weight of trains. Should you have been involved in one of these train accidents, you should consider speaking with one of our attorneys. 

What Are the Main Causes of Train Accidents? 

Now that you know more about the types of train accidents, we can investigate their common causes. Have a look below to learn more about these causes to be more prepared and aware of what could happen.

Negligence

Negligence stands as a significant cause of train accidents, often resulting from human error or oversight. Train operators or crew members failing to adhere to safety protocols, signal violations, or distracted and tired driving can lead to disastrous consequences.

In addition to human negligence, negligent maintenance practices, including inadequate inspections, repairs, or equipment failures, can also contribute to accidents. Unfortunately, negligence can also extend to the responsible authorities, such as railroad companies or government entities, failing to address known safety hazards or neglecting infrastructure maintenance. 

By neglecting their duty to ensure safe operations, these acts of negligence can result in tragic train accidents, causing injuries, loss of life, property damage, and long-lasting psychological trauma for victims and their families.

Mechanical Failures 

In many instances, a railway employee, train operator, and railway company can do everything they can to ensure nothing untoward happens, but train accidents can still occur. 

This is because trains are large pieces of machinery with numerous complex moving parts and technical systems. Each of these aspects has to work perfectly in conjunction with one another for a train to operate as it should in a safe manner. 

Unfortunately, there are times when no train accident can be prevented because of mechanical failures. Although not as common as other train accident causes, train accidents do happen because of defective parts and other mechanical issues like electrical shorts, failing brakes, and engine problems. 

Defective and Derailed Train Tracks

Defective train tracks are another factor contributing to train accidents. Issues such as track misalignment, worn-out or damaged rails, improper maintenance, or inadequate inspections can lead to train accidents, injuries, and loss of life. 

Often something as simple as objects inadvertently left on the tracks where the train is expected to pass poses a deadly threat. That’s why it is imperative for conductors to remain constantly vigilant of their surroundings in order to promptly and safely address potential dangers. 

Unfortunately, there are instances where conductors fail to spot these obstacles altogether or in time to prevent a collision. If you were involved in an accident that surrounded defective or derailed train tracks, our law firm might be able to assist you. 

Speeding Trains

Speeding trains pose a grave risk to both passengers and the surrounding environment. When trains exceed safe speed limits, they have reduced maneuverability and increased braking distances, making it difficult to respond to unexpected obstacles or hazards. 

Since this is the case, excessive speed increases the likelihood of derailments, especially on curves or poorly maintained tracks. It also reduces the train’s ability to stop in time to prevent collisions with other trains, vehicles, or pedestrians at crossings. 

What Are Some Of The Common Injuries Seen In Train Accident Cases?

Now that you know more about the causes of train accidents, we’ve discussed some of the common injuries seen in train accident cases. Have a look below to learn more about these injuries, and if you suffered an injury like the ones listed below, it might be time to consider speaking with an attorney about compensation. 

• Head and brain injuries: Train accidents can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, skull fractures, or brain hemorrhages due to impacts or sudden stops.
• Spinal cord injuries: Severe jolts or impacts during train accidents can lead to spinal cord injuries, causing paralysis, loss of sensation, or impaired mobility.
• Bone fractures: Train accidents often cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis due to collisions, falls, or being trapped in a wreckage.
• Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash, sprains, strains, and contusions are common soft tissue injuries resulting from sudden movements or impacts during train accidents.
• Internal organ injuries: Train accidents can cause internal injuries such as internal bleeding, organ perforation, or damage to vital organs due to blunt force trauma.
• Burns: In the event of a train fire or electrical malfunction, passengers may suffer burns ranging from minor to severe, leading to scarring or disfigurement.
• Crush injuries: Passengers may experience crush injuries when trapped between train cars, platforms, or other objects, often resulting in severe trauma, amputations, or death.
• Smoke inhalation and toxic exposure: Train accidents involving fires or hazardous materials can lead to smoke inhalation, chemical exposure, or respiratory problems.

Speak With A Santa Rosa Train Accident Attorney Today To Discuss Your Case

As you can see, there are many causes of train accidents. Fortunately, if you have been involved in a train accident and have suffered injuries or damages to personal property, you can speak with a Santa Rosa train accident attorney. One of our attorneys at The Cartwright Law Firm can help you seek legal recourse and compensation. 

We will work alongside you to build a strong case and better your chances of receiving a fair settlement. So if you’re in need of assistance, you can contact us here, and one of our legal representatives will reach out to arrange an obligation-free consultation. 

Our successful case results are a reflection of the values and virtues we believe in and uphold at Cartwright Law Firm. Nothing stops us from pursuing justice on behalf of those who need it.

Robert E. Cartwright Jr.
Founder and Managing Partner