Fatal Train Crash on Main Street in Oakley
The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ECCFPD) reported a fatal train versus vehicle crash on Main Street in the Oakley area on the afternoon of Wednesday, August 25, 2021. The train accident occurred shortly after 12:50 p.m. at East Cypress Road and Main Street.
Details on the Fatal Train Crash on Cypress Road and Main Street in Oakley
A preliminary report suggested that a 19-year-old woman was driving a Lexus SUV west on E Cypress Road. While her car was at the railroad crossing, the train allegedly crashed into the rear of her vehicle. The driver suffered serious injuries and was taken via air ambulance to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek for immediate treatment.
Sadly, a passenger in the Lexus, a 12-year-old boy, was declared deceased at the scene. The decedent was identified as a student at Delta Vista Middle School. Counselors and the crisis management team on campus will be providing support to staff and students.
Another car that was traveling in the area was hit by the Lexus, and the passengers in that vehicle did not report injuries, authorities said. A third vehicle was also involved, and one of the three involved vehicles was said to have overturned at the scene. The initial investigation will be handled by the Oakley Police Department (Oakley PD). Officials will also be working with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regarding this situation.
Liability in Railroad Accident Cases
In terms of common reasons for train accidents, there may be obvious factors. Some of which may include unsafe railroad crossings in which lack appropriate warning signage or have other details that make it hazardous for others on the road. Another reason for railroad crashes is errors on the part of the train engineer. In some cases, a traffic collision involving a train and a motor vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist may have been prevented had the engineer exercised due care by slowing down.
In addition to obvious factors, there may be others that may not be immediately apparent. This may include improper train maintenance that has compromised safety through acceleration, braking systems, and travel. When railroad companies fail to inspect and maintain train equipment, they may increase the risk for tragic crashes. Improper railroad maintenance may also play a role as poorly maintained platforms, structures, and tracks may all contribute to railroad collisions. Each contributing factor must be established through compelling evidence to build a strong wrongful death claim against those responsible for the incident.
No matter what caused the incident, it is crucial to retain legal counsel right away. An experienced Oakley wrongful death lawyer may work with you and your family to build a strong case designed to provide you all with the sense of justice and financial compensation you need to move forward. Keep in mind that strict filing criteria and deadlines in addition to state and federal laws for liability may apply to these types of cases. Therefore, speak with an experienced accident attorney today to learn about your options for recovery as a surviving family member. Details on how to find the best attorney are available through this video.
What You Should Know About the Legal Process
As with any personal injury or wrongful death case, negligent entities and their insurance companies will have a team of defense counsel immediately after a fatal accident. It is highly recommended to consult with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Unlike the other side, your attorney will have your best interests at heart throughout every step of the legal process to ensure you and your family are fairly compensated for your loss.
Our law firm has fought for the best interests of families in Contra Costa County and across California since 1982. Every train accident case has its own unique set of facts and circumstances. Therefore, work with a team of accident attorneys you and your family can depend on to provide compassionate and experienced guidance and protect your right to full and fair compensation.
Personal Injury Attorney in Oakley
I’m Ed Smith, an Oakley personal injury attorney. A railroad accident may lead to traumatic injuries or even death to those involved. If you have been seriously hurt or lost a loved one in a train crash, you may need assistance in navigating the legal process with difficult insurance companies representing at-fault parties. At our law firm, our team of lawyers is available anytime to speak with you and your family, discuss your case, and advise you of what to expect from the process. When you are ready to speak with us, call (925) 428-5220 or (800) 404-5400 to receive compassionate, free, and friendly case advice.
You and your family should be confident in the lawyer you select to handle your wrongful death case. The first step to determining whether an attorney is a good fit for you and your case is by reviewing their ratings and comments by past clients. To see ours, visit the links below:
In recognition of our work, we have been awarded membership into the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
At our law firm, we are dedicated to obtaining justice and fair compensation for families throughout California who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones in all types of accidents. To see how we have obtained favorable case outcomes on behalf of those we have previously represented, please head over to our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Image Source: By “Kat Jayne” via Pixabay
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