Several recent train derailments have highlighted the safety concerns associated with train transportation.
On March 4, 2023, a Norfolk Southern train derailed in Springfield, Ohio, causing 28 cars to go off the rails. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. This event occurred approximately one month after a severe train accident in East Palestine, Ohio, where a Norfolk Southern train transporting dangerous materials derailed near the town. As a result, toxic chemicals were released into the air and water, posing a risk of explosion, and authorities had to implement a “controlled burn” and evacuate the region temporarily. The true environmental effects of this catastrophe remain unknown.
Since the beginning of 2023, there have been over a dozen reported rail accidents in the United States and according to the Federal Railroad Administration, there were at least 1,164 train derailments in 2022. That is more than three derailments per day.
These incidents highlight the importance of proper training, maintenance, and safety protocols for train transportation in the United States. Train companies have a responsibility to prioritize safety and invest in proper maintenance and training to minimize the risk of accidents. Sadly, in many cases, train companies prioritize profits over safety, leading to a lack of investment in safety protocols, and in the maintenance of trains and infrastructure. Similarly, train operators may be undertrained, or pushed to meet tight schedules and quotas, leading to unsafe practices and decisions.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a train accident, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your options. An attorney can investigate the circumstances surrounding the train accident and help you pursue legal action to hold the responsible parties accountable. The law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner is the oldest personal injury firm in Texas, and our attorneys are standing by to assist with your claim. Call us today at 713-222-7211 and 1-800-870-9584 for your free consultation.