Trains provide an efficient way for people and cargo to move across the state, and travel to other areas of the country. While trains are generally considered safer than many other forms of transportation, train accidents are some of the most severe. Due to their high speeds, and the immense weight and size of trains, train accidents can result in lost lives and catastrophic injuries for those who survive them. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a wreck, you need the help of an experienced San Rafael train accident lawyer who can help you obtain the damages you deserve.
Causes of Train AccidentsThere are a number of causes of train accidents in San Rafael. The most common of these are as follows:
Regardless of the cause, a train accident may result in serious injuries and in the worst of cases, even death. A train accident lawyer in San Rafael can help victims pursue the compensation they deserve.
How Do People Become Injured by Trains?When people think of train accidents, they often first think of trains crashing into an object, or into another train. These types of train accidents are serious because trains travel at high speeds and there is very little protection for the passengers on board. While people can certainly become injured in these types of accidents, there are other types, as well.
Passengers can become injured when they are boarding or disembarking from a train when there is a gap between the platform and the train, or other hazards are present. Additionally, drivers and occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians can become injured when a railroad crossing is unprotected, or if the gates and warning signals are not operating properly. In the event of a derailment or a cargo spill, many other innocent bystanders can become injured, too.
The Legal Duty of Common CarriersIn San Rafael, as throughout the rest of California, trains are considered common carriers. Common carriers are modes of transportation that transport members of the general public for a fee. Due to the fact that trains are considered common carriers, commuter rail lines and railroad companies have a high responsibility to ensure they safely transport their passengers and that they take all safety precautions necessary to prevent an accident. When they do not meet that strict duty of care and act negligently, common carriers can be held legally responsible for paying damages to any accident victims.
Our San Rafael Train Accident Attorney Can Help with Your ClaimAt Brod Law Firm, our train accident attorney in San Rafael understands the long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial burden these crashes cause. We also know how to negotiate effectively with the party responsible for the crash, and we will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to deal with your medical expenses, lost income, and more. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case evaluation.