FELA Lawyers

Common Causes of Railroad Accidents

Railroad accidents can be devastating, given the size of locomotives and the speed at which they travel. Even a small mistake can quickly escalate into a full blown crash, resulting in the injury and death of hundreds of people. Understanding the common causes of these tragic crashes should help to ensure that these mistakes are avoided in the future.

Defective Tracks

Railroad workers responsible for laying the track have a very important job that must be taken seriously and completed safely. The large locomotives that will use these tracks rely on their quality construction to ensure that the tracks can support the weight and movement of the train as it carries freight or passengers to their next destination.

Lack of Operator Attention

As was the case in the 2008 California train wreck, the operator was not paying attention to the railroad signals and failed to see a red light. Operators who are fatigued or distracted cannot complete their jobs properly.

Distractions, such as the use of a cell phone, seem to not only effect automobile drivers, but railroad operators as well. Operators who are forced to work long hours may experience fatigue, which poses a serious threat to the contents (people or freight) of the train that they are operating. Distractions and fatigue may also lead to other mistakes, such as excessive speed or the failure to use the train’s horn when needed.

Defective Signals, Railroad Crossings, and Other Equipment

It is very important that railroad workers maintain the signals and crossings used by the trains. Without these vital warning systems, trains may collide with automobiles or other trains. Inadequate inspections of these areas put railroad employees, the passengers, and automobile drivers at very serious risk of injury and even death.

Drug or Alcohol Use by a Railroad Employee

The work of a railroad employee, no matter how small, affects the well-being of fellow employees, passengers, and other people near a train. Consuming alcohol and/ or drugs while working is incredibly irresponsible, and will likely cause a mistake to be made. For this reason, railroad polices prohibit employees from consuming these items while working.

A FELA Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve been injured due to the negligent actions of your employer or coworkers, the Federal Employer’s Liability Act protects your right to file a lawsuit against them. For more information about your rights, contact the FELA lawyers of Williams Kherkher today by calling 800-220-9341.