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Expensive Oil Field Equipment Turned into Scrap by UP Train

By Pottroff & Karlin LLC |

(Magnolia, Texas – March 4, 2013)

A huge piece of oil field drilling equipment headed for Mexico never made it beyond the FM 1488 crossing of Union Pacific railroad tracks in Magnolia, TX Monday, when the crew with the 18-wheeler hauling the oversized load stopped on the crossing to check if the equipment would be able to safely pass beneath the cantilever flashing light signals, only to have a northbound Union Pacific freight train round a nearby curve in the track and turn the load, valued in the millions of dollars, into scrap metal.

The passenger in a vehicle awaiting passage of the equipment was able to catch the entire scenario on her cell phone camera, and the posting of the video on the internet went viral nationwide.

The exact cost of the destroyed equipment was not yet disclosed, nor was its specific purpose, but the accident represented the 10th crash at the UPRR/FM 1488 crossing, where 18 trains pass daily at speeds of up to 60 mph, accumulating one fatality and four non-fatal injuries. The most recent collision at the crossing before Monday’s occurred on November 2 of last year. The crossing is equipped with flashing lights, bells and crossing gates.


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I have had the opportunity to work as co-counsel with Nathan on several railroad crossing accidents cases. In each case, Nathan always possessed an incredible knowledge of the law and the facts, possessed a great talent for aggressive - strategic legal planning and trial tactics while, at the same time, displaying great skill as an effective negotiator. I would recommend him to anyone without hesitation.

Scott McCluen Harriman, Tennessee

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Joseph M. Miller Mandeville, Louisiana

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Jon C. Clark Austin, Texas

Bob Pottroff has fought for the victims of the railroads’ callous disregard for safety more than any other attorney that I know. I should know because I am currently Chair-elect of the Railroad Section of ATLA.

Robert Schuetze Boulder, Colorado

Mr. Pottroff has shaken the rail industry to its very roots. Settlements are now more common as a result of the way he has exposed the industry’s wrongdoing.

Mike Easley Arkansas

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In addition to his substantive contributions to railroad grade crossing safety, I have personally observed his untiring efforts and contributions to improving the integrity of the legal system.

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