Railroad & Train Accident Claims in Ulster County
Railroad or train accidents may involve passenger or freight trains, locomotives, or local commuter train systems. Due to the speeds that trains travel, and to the lack of protection typical train seating provides passengers, the end result of railroad accidents is almost always catastrophic. The team of Kingston train accident lawyers at Basch Keegan & Spada is qualified to represent victims of railroad and train accidents.
Irresponsible Train Operation Can Result in Deadly Railroad Accidents
The Hudson Valley area saw the tragic aftermath of a serious train accident in 2013, when a southbound Hudson Line train derailed, killing four people and injuring more than 60 passengers. Federal investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board determined that the train was traveling at 82 miles per hour — a speed nearly three times the maximum allowable speed of 30 miles per hour.
In addition to excessive speed, other common causes of train accidents include:
- Failure to properly inspect equipment
- Improper train or track maintenance or repair
- Lines being switched improperly
- Mechanical failures — including broken warning lights
- Improperly loaded or disproportionate cargo on the train
- Disregarding weather conditions
- Miscommunications regarding which track is non-operational and which is in use
- Failure to obey signals
- Insufficient training of staff
- Failure to remedy a dangerous situation, such as a spill, broken seat, or belligerent passenger
The personal injury attorneys at Basch Keegan & Spada possess the resources and legal skill to handle complex cases arising from train accidents. We will thoroughly investigate an accident to identify all liable parties, working to ensure maximum compensation for our clients.
Train Authorities May Be Liable for Injuries Incurred on Railroad Property
When you get on and off of a train at a train platform, you are on property controlled by train authorities who operate the rail system you are using. If a dangerous condition on that property — such as a neglected spill or cracked pavement — causes you to slip and fall or trip and fall, the train authorities in charge of keeping the property safe may be held liable for your injuries and damages. This includes compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Free Consultations Available
Train accident cases can be complex. If you have been injured in a train accident, you may be feeling frightened and confused about where to turn.
You can count on Basch Keegan & Spada to help you navigate your case in the event of a railroad injury. We offer free consultations and our team is available 24/7 to speak to you.