Texas Train Accident Lawyer
Although train accidents do not take place as often as they did in prior decades, they still occur at an alarming rate. In fact, in 2016, Operation Lifesaver ranked Texas as having the highest rate of highway-rail grade crossing collisions in the country and the third highest rate of crossing fatalities. While many of these accidents can be attributed to the negligence or recklessness of the victim, this is not always the case, as some collisions are the result of employee negligence, improper track design, a failure to inspect tracks regularly, or the use of improper materials during construction. In fact, more than one person or entity is often at fault in these types of crashes, so injured parties may have the opportunity to collect compensation from multiple defendants.
While this ensures that the loved ones of victims receive compensation for medical bills and other financial losses, it also means that investigations, negotiations, and filing a claim in court are made more complicated, so if you or a loved one were injured in a train accident, it is critical to speak with an experienced Texas train accident lawyer who can explain your legal options and ensure that your interests are protected.
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“Integrity”
“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 -
“Beyond Belief”
“His knowledge of the rail industry and his willingness to share his knowledge with other people who do railroad work is beyond belief to me.”- Mike Bee -
“Given Hope”
“Through his efforts, he has single-handedly given hope to victims who are injured or killed as a result of dangerous railroad crossings”- Donald Vasos -
“Impressed”
“Nathan is a warrior fighting the railroads.”- Jonathon (Jon) C. Clark -
“Excellent Results”
“Nathan Karlin has my strongest endorsement in the field of railroad crossing cases and personal injury law.”- Joseph M. Miller -
“Would Recommend Without Hesitation”
“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.”- Scott McCluen -
“First Call is 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 -
“Hard-Working”
“The staff is helpful, professional, and responsive.”- Tracy D.
Why are Train Accidents so Common in Texas?
Unlike other parts of the country, Texas is still experiencing growth and economic development. For this reason, the state sees a large amount of freight railroad traffic resulting from the transportation of resources. In fact, Texas has become one of the largest users of freight trains in the nation. While this contributes to the state’s overall economic growth, it does mean that residents are especially at risk of being involved in a train accident, as the state is crisscrossed by thousands of miles of tracks.
Because trains play such a vital role in the state’s economy, both state and federal government officials place a high priority on creating regulations to ensure the protection of railroad employees, travelers, pedestrians, motorists, and residents. Unfortunately, despite the existence of these rules, accidents involving trains still occur regularly, leaving victims to struggle with painful and often permanently debilitating injuries.
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Purpose-Driven Representation
We handle each case with the belief that the legal system should be a tool for positive change. Our work often leads to broader safety improvements, not just individual outcomes.
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Focused on Serious Injury Cases
Our practice centers on railroad crossing accidents and other catastrophic injuries. These complex cases demand deep experience and a commitment to long-term impact.
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Personalized, Accessible Legal Support
We maintain a welcoming environment where clients are heard, supported, and informed. Our team approach ensures you’re never left wondering where your case stands.
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Free Consultations, Contingency-Based FeesWe offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover compensation for you. It’s one way we make justice more accessible for those who need it most.
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What are the Most Common Types/Causes of Train Accidents?
Although there are a number of different kinds of train accidents, there are a few types of railway accidents that occur most often, including:
- Collisions with pedestrians or vehicles at railway crossings;
- Collisions between trains; and
- Derailments, which involve a train leaving the tracks unexpectedly.
Like accidents involving vehicles, train crashes can occur for any number of reasons, although they are usually attributable to at least one person or entity’s negligence. According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the most common causes of train accidents are:
- Track-related problems, such as improper track geometry/design, issues with the roadbed, obstructions, inspection violations, and poor maintenance;
- Conductor error, which includes speeding, improper use of brakes, and operating a train while distracted, fatigued, or intoxicated;
- Signal and communication errors;
- Mechanical failure caused by improper maintenance or repair;
- Improper loading procedures and excessive cargo weight; and
- The use of inadequate signs, lights, and barriers at crossings.
These kinds of errors are especially frustrating because they can all be linked to someone’s negligence, which ultimately means that the accident could have been prevented. To help ensure that these types of errors don’t cause or contribute to train accidents, both state and federal law require railroad companies, conductors, and railway employees to adhere to specific safety standards. In fact, the FRA alone employs more than 400 safety inspectors, regional administrators, and grade crossing safety managers to implement these rules.