Skip to Main Content
Railroad News

Oregon Truck Driver Hit by Amtrak Train at Dangerous, Unguarded Union Pacific Crossing

By Pottroff & Karlin LLC |

 (Salem, Oregon – August 25, 2014)

The driver of a semi trailer truck loaded with cattle feed barely survived a crash between his 18-wheeler and a northbound Amtrak train with 280 passengers on board at the dangerous and unguarded crossing of Duckflat Road SE near Salem, OR in Marion County at about 2:20 P.M. Monday afternoon.

Lynn Simonds, 64, of Salem, OR began crossing the road/rail intersection which he believed to be clear, was hit by an approaching train after he was halfway across the tracks and attempting, in vain, to clear the crossing. The crossing did not have any active warning devices, such as lights and gates, which most certainly could have prevented the collision had they been in place and operating properly.  UPRR freight and Amtrak passenger trains cross the Union Pacific/Duckflat Road SE crossing at a top speed of 70 mph.

The design of the crossing is also poorly designed, as Duckflat Road parallels Union Pacific tracks, first on the west side and then along the east side, with two 90 degree turns necessary to negotiate any vehicle across the tracks. This would require an especially difficult maneuver for the operator of any 18 wheeler.


sb-news-bg

Railroad News



Testimonials

Train crash cases are unique and complex with many different potential pitfalls, such as federal preemption. Anytime I get hired or even get a call from a train crash victim, my very first call is to Nathan’s firm. Nathan’s knowledge and experience in handling and trying cases against these litigation savvy railroad companies gives me the confidence to know that the clients and cases I refer to him are getting the best of the best.

James Perrin Lubbock, Texas

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

Nathan Karlin has my strongest endorsement in the field of railroad crossing cases and personal injury law. I had the pleasure of working with Nathan in a complex railroad personal injury case. I was impressed by Nathan’s knowledge, his work ethic, and his dedication to the client. I look forward to working with Nathan on future injury matters. I am also aware firsthand that he has obtained excellent trial and settlement results in numerous cases involving members of the public harmed by railroad companies.

Joseph M. Miller Mandeville, Louisiana

Nathan is a warrior fighting the railroads. As a fellow personal injury lawyer, I have constantly been impressed with his depth of knowledge and his capabilities from case to case. I’d take him into battle with me any day against the biggest railroads and insurance companies on the planet.

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

Bob Pottroff’s work in railroad safety law is unmatched and he has been the source of great advice and phenomenal creativity.

Roger Brown Jefferson City, Missouri

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.

Elizabeth Hardy Lake Charles, Louisiana

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
Testimonials