Pedestrian on Bicycle Struck and Killed by Freight Train at P Street
A freight train passing through the downtown area of Sacramento on August 7 struck and killed a pedestrian. The accident happened near the railroad crossing at P Street at about 3:15 p.m., as reported by the California Office of Emergency Services. The individual was reportedly between 40 and 50 years of age and was riding a bicycle when the collision occurred.
Traffic Diverted Due to Stopped Freight Train After Accident
Because of the stopped train, road closures were announced close to 20th Street between R and E. An investigation is underway, causing motorists to seek other routes. No information was provided on whether anyone on board the train was injured.
Train Accidents Involving Pedestrians
Train accidents involving pedestrians are a significant issue in many cities. Pedestrians are often at risk of severe injuries or even death when they come into contact with moving train cars and tracks. Common causes of pedestrian accidents include crossing the tracks without paying attention to oncoming trains, walking along or falling asleep, or being pushed onto them by another person.
Railroad and Track Liability
Generally, railroads and railway track owners may be liable for injuries or fatalities on their premises, depending on the circumstances. For example, these parties, including those who operate freight trains, may be held responsible in the following instances:
- The company failed to properly maintain the tracks.
- The railroad or railway track owner has failed to adhere to federal regulations.
- Defective equipment, such as rolling stock, locomotives, and freight cars, can lead to a train accident. In such instances, the manufacturer of the defective product may also be held liable.
- Negligence or willful employee misconduct, such as speeding or failing to take safety precautions, can cause a train accident.
- Hazardous conditions existed on their tracks or premises, such as track defects like cracked ties, broken rails, or missing guardrails.
- Faulty signaling systems that fail to alert others of an approaching train could give rise to liability if an accident ensues.
Death of a Family Member and Recovering Damages
Families of pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorists who die in an accident with a freight train may seek legal advice to determine their rights and seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim. Your grief cannot be eased by money alone. Nonetheless, it holds the at-fault party responsible, helps the family avoid financial distress from their loss, and provides some sense of justice. Legal advice after a loved one’s death can protect your rights and interests.
The following video offers helpful advice from wrongful death lawyer Ed Smith about what to look for in an attorney:
Train Accident Lawyer in Sacramento
I am Ed Smith, a train accident lawyer in Sacramento. A rail accident can be caused by a railway company, a track owner, a manufacturer, or anyone else. If your loved one died due to a train collision, you may be able to retain legal representation for your family and file a wrongful death claim. Our accident attorneys are available at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 to provide you with free legal advice. To contact us, you can also use our online form.
Some of the people who have been assisted by our injury lawyers are included in the following:
We are members of the following organizations in recognition of our dedication to our clients:
Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay
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