Pedestrian accidents at railroad crossings are a serious safety concern in Katy, Texas. In 2022, Texas reported over 240 highway-rail crossing accidents, which resulted in many people’s deaths and injuries. Such accidents commonly occur due to distracted drivers, blind spots, and malfunctioning signals. Pedestrians often suffer from excruciating pain due to severe injuries.
The statistics are scary and convey the importance of raising awareness and taking safety precautions. Trains follow fixed schedules and cannot stop quickly. Therefore, it becomes the pedestrian’s responsibility to check both sides and make sure it is safe before crossing. Many people assume they have enough time to cross the tracks, which results in accidents.
Dealing with a pedestrian accident at a railroad crossing can be overwhelming, especially with the financial and emotional toll it takes on you. If you or someone you know has been in a railroad crossing accident, getting legal help from Katy personal injury lawyers is crucial.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents at railroad crossings
1.Not obeying crossing signals.
If an individual does not obey the crossing signals, it can land him/her in trouble. Many pedestrians believe that they can cross the tracks safely and ignore the warning lights at the crossing gate.
In many cases, pedestrians often misjudge the train’s speed and think they have enough time to cross the track before the train approaches.
2.Poor visibility.
Bad weather conditions such as snow, heavy rain, or fog can affect your ability to see warning signs properly. Moreover, poor lighting of crossing signals also makes it difficult for pedestrians to see the approaching train. Physical obstructions such as buildings and poorly placed warning signals can also block the view of tracks and lead to severe outcomes.
3.Distracted walking.
Distracted walking can also be dangerous for pedestrians. Pedestrians may engage in distracting habits such as texting, scrolling through social media, or using headphones while crossing the railway track.
4.Poorly working signals.
Crossing signals at the railway tracks warn people about the approaching train. However, if they do not work properly, it can lead to dangerous situations. Malfunctions may occur due to power outages or other technical issues.
This can cause pedestrians to believe the track is clear and they can safely pass it, and they may end up getting hit by a train.
5.Trespassing.
Railway track accidents may also happen when pedestrians cross the tracks at unauthorized or unmarked locations. This behavior is not only illegal but also very dangerous. It can increase the likelihood of accidents as people will be unaware of the oncoming train due to no warning signs or crossing signals.
Who is liable in a railroad crossing accident?
1.Pedestrian negligence.
It is the responsibility of the pedestrian to observe signals carefully before crossing the track. Failing to observe crossing signals can contribute to railway track accidents. If you were negligent or did not obey the crossing signal, you might not be able to pursue a claim.
2.Railroad company negligence.
Railway companies can also be held liable for accidents that result from poorly working signals or lack of warning signs. If the company fails to follow the safety protocols and results in an accident, the court can hold them liable for the injuries sustained by the pedestrians.
3.Government entity liability.
The local government is responsible for maintaining safe crossings and maintaining proper infrastructure near the railway tracks. Failure to do so can cause them to share the liability.
4.Shared fault.
In many cases, both the pedestrian and the railway company share the responsibility for the accidents. For example, if the pedestrian was negligent and the railway company also failed to provide proper signs, both parties will be held accountable for the accident.
Don’t suffer alone!
A collision with a moving train can give you lifelong injuries and even cause one’s death. Hire an attorney in Katy, Texas, today to secure a fair compensation!
