Increases in population and traffic in California have created a greater demand for public transportation. Many people in the Bay Area are choosing to take BART or Cal Train to get to work instead of commuting by car. For many people, commuting by train is quicker, less expensive, and more environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, injuries caused by train accidents are quite common and rising.
Operators of public transportation, often called Common Carriers, are responsible for taking all steps necessary to protect the safety of their passengers. Railroad and train companies are responsible for properly maintaining and operating their facilities and equipment, providing safe and secure facilities for boarding and leaving the train, and safely storing passenger luggage. There are strict federal and state laws governing the safe operation of trains, and federal authorities will investigate any serious accident that occurs. Operators of railroads and trains can be held liable for serious accidents, such as derailments and collisions, as well as less serious accidents like falling luggage which causes injury.
There are many types of accidents involving trains ranging from a simple slip and fall to a collision causing death. These accidents can happen on any kind of train, whether it is hauling freight, chemicals, or passengers. Accidents can affect train riders, employees, people at the station and / or innocent bystanders. Rail crossings are a common place for train accidents and are becoming increasingly more dangerous with population growth. Derailments are responsible for extensive damage, particularly if toxic chemicals are involved.
The causes of train accidents are as varied as the injuries they result in. Engineer Negligence, poor maintenance, inadequate safety precautions, and bad management are among the most common causes of train accidents. Commuter trains such as BART and Cal Train are not immune from these problems and are frequently sued over preventable accidents that occur both on their trains and at their facilities.
It is important to note that claims resulting from train accidents are subject to various Statutes Of Limitations which limit the amount time you have to file a lawsuit. Also, public transportation accidents typically involve making a claim against a government entity. These claims can be very complicated and there are additional procedures and strict timelines that must be followed. The impact of these rules on your case must be evaluated by a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
Call The Scranton Law Firm for a free consultation with an experienced California train accident attorney.
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