There is no question that train accidents are on the rise in California and it is also true that steps must be taken to lower the number of these accidents. Keep reading to learn how the Federal Railroad Administration is working to do just this. If you have already been involved in a train accident, or your loved one has lost their life in a train accident, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 now for a free legal consultation.
New Projects Can Have a Big Impact
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has recently reported a federal grant of $25 million to help fund projects in several states, including California, to help implement positive train control (PTC). This technology is designed to help automatically slow down a train that is going faster than the speed limit. It will eventually be mandatory for all railroads in the United States and, safety experts say, could help significantly reduce the chance of a train derailment, collision, or track switching issue.
The Basics of Train Accidents
Let us pause to consider the facts about train accidents. It is true that trains are a great choice to move people and products, and when compared to other forms of transport they are much less likely to be involved in an accident. However, though the number of train accidents may be low, when they do happen they almost always involve catastrophic injuries or death.
The FRA has reported that there are about 3,000 train accidents in the United States and about 1,000 injuries. Top causes of train derailments include collisions with vehicles or other trains, derailments, and errors made by the conductor, such as ignoring signals or speeding. Train accidents can also be caused or exacerbated by railway negligence. Remember too that trains travel at very high speeds and that passengers do not have special protections – these are the main reasons that train accidents can be so dangerous.
How PTC Technology Works
The FRA grant discussed above is going to be given to Amtrak and other rail companies in the United States. This is in addition to the $650 million that Congress previously approved since 2008. The Northeast corridor has seen wide implementation of these symptoms with great results. Now it is time for Southern California to get it.
In fact, even those how may seem to have reason to fight against this technology only have one complaint: It is not being implemented fast enough. In areas where it is already in place – and has been for more than a decade – a significant decline in train accidents has been seen.
If you have already been injured in a train accident then we urge you to contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation. We have experience in these types of cases and can offer comprehensive assistance as you move forward with your claim.
