Practice Areas

Train Accidents

When Powerful Machines Derail Lives…

For over 35 years, Goldberg Legal has been litigating train accident cases, bringing justice to victims and their families.

Trains have been integral to America’s development, creating new towns and facilitating mass transportation across the nation. Despite advancements in transportation technology, trains remain a crucial and economical means of transporting passengers and cargo. However, their long history has not resulted in a stellar safety record.

Alarming Statistics

According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), nearly 3,000 train accidents occur annually, with a train derailing or crashing every 90 minutes. Each year, approximately 1,500 individuals are killed or injured in train accidents. Shockingly, train passengers are 30 times more likely to be killed than automobile passengers on a per-mile basis, and children under 16 years old account for 35% of train accident victims.

Common Causes of Train Accidents

Train accidents can happen for various reasons, including:

  • Operator inattention, fatigue, or insufficient training
  • Improper instructions from train control stations
  • Excessive speed at railroad crossings
  • Worn, defective, or poorly maintained tracks causing derailments
  • Vehicles stuck on bad railway tracks at crossings
  • Obstructed views at railway crossings due to trees, buildings, or road curves
  • Lack of lights or safety gates at 80% of public railroad crossings
  • 60% of railroad crossing deaths occur at unprotected crossings

Only about 10% of railway crossing fatalities are due to car drivers trying to “beat the train” or ignoring flashing safety gates. The remaining 90% involve victims unable to avoid being hit by a train.

Negligence and Accountability

While state statutes, train company policies, and common sense precautions can enhance railway safety, some rail companies prioritize cost-saving over safety improvements. When this negligence leads to tragic accidents, the victims and their families bear the brunt of the consequences. Rail companies must be held accountable for their negligence, and they often have insurance to cover such liabilities.

Our Commitment to You

At Goldberg Legal, we have over 35 years of experience advocating for train accident victims and their families. Our expertise allows us to effectively pursue claims for property damages, injuries, and wrongful death. We understand that while financial compensation cannot replace loved ones lost, it can alleviate the future burdens faced by survivors.

We have a full-time physician on staff to assess injuries and technical consultants to prepare your case for trial or settlement. We are not intimidated by the size, wealth, or power of any railway company.

Free Consultation and Legal Guidance

We offer free consultations to discuss potential claims involving train accidents. It’s crucial to act swiftly due to the short Statutes of Limitation for such claims. We can address your questions and concerns regarding the time frame for filing your claim.

Don’t let the compensation you and your family deserve slip away. Contact us today to discuss your potential claim against a negligent train company at no cost to you.

Goldberg Legal – Your Trusted Advocate in Train Accident Litigation