A railroad crossing collision occurs about once every 90 minutes in the United States and results in 1,000 deaths each year.

The risk of a railroad crossing accident is seven times greater at crossings without gates than at crossings with gates. In addition to lack of adequate crossing gates, there are several other factors which can contribute to a railroad crossing collision. Crossings with obstructed views for either the train operator or anyone near a crossing can also create a greater risk of a railroad crossing accident. Train operators sometimes approach a crossing without sounding the horn or without lights. Defective railroad tracks, excessive cargo loads, poor maintenance of the train or track, and increased train traffic are also factors which can contribute to a railroad crossing accident. Collisions, derailment, and accidents due to human error or mechanical failure can all cause or contribute to railroad crossing collisions.

In many cases, the railroad company and its insurance carrier will have adjusters and investigators on-site almost immediately after the collision event in order to shield themselves from responsibility. They may delay or dispute an injury claim simply as a matter of business, regardless of your very real injuries and medical bills.

At Burns, Burns, and Garner, we have the experience in these cases from settlement negotiations on the claim to the trial of the case. If you or a loved one have been injured or a loved one has been killed in a railroad crossing collision, call an attorney in our firm for an appointment. We will consult with you concerning your claim. If we take your case, there will be no attorney fee unless we collect for you.

We sincerely appreciate you considering Burns, Burns & Garner for your potential railroad crossing collision claim.