Train safety is an important concern for many communities. Changes to railroad crossing safety are coming to a neighboring community south of Oklahoma City. The safety modifications for the quiet zone to go into effect are in place, and the quiet zones are scheduled to begin at any time. The safety modifications are also expected to make the crossings safer, such as the yellow safety medians which will prevent drivers from splitting the gates.
Since 2012, 9 pedestrians have been struck by trains in the community, which has resulted in the deaths of 7 pedestrians. Railroad crossings include many dangers, and trains often travel more quickly and are wider than many pedestrians anticipate. It is also important to only cross at designated railroad crossing areas. In addition, it can be essential to avoid distractions that divert focus or remove sound when around railroad tracks and railroad crossing areas.
During 2015, 900 victims in the United States were killed or injured in train incidents and, nationally, a car or pedestrians is hit by a train approximately every 3 hours. Train accidents can cause devastation in the lives of victims and their families. Because of the serious nature of train accidents, protections are available to victims who have been harmed in a train accident. Victims and their families may be able to recover compensation for the physical, financial and emotional damages suffered in a railroad accident.
Understanding protections to help avoid a train accident are important; however, it is equally important to be familiar with legal protections when involved in a railroad accident. Legal resources are available to victims and their families that they should be aware of.
