Two Union Pacific trains collided in the early morning hours of Sunday, August 17, 2014, near Hoxie, notes Arkansas train accident attorneys. The cause of the collision is currently under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which briefed the media Sunday evening according to the agency’s Twitter feed.
Two railroad employees died in the collision, and another two were injured. The trains reported were carrying toxic substances at the time of the collision, including unnamed household products and a type of alcohol, and for that reason residents within a mile of the collision were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The evacuation order was lifted by noon Sunday, however, and residents were cleared to return to the homes.
While collisions between trains are relatively uncommon, train accidents can have many causes and effects. Other kinds of train accidents include hazardous material spills, derailments and collisions with vehicles at railroad crossings. Arkansas train accident attorneys note that many train wrecks could be prevented with better safety standards, proper track maintenance, and better management of crossings.
Common causes of train wrecks and injuries include:
- Conductor fatigue and error
- Unprotected railroad crossings
- Brakeman fatigue and error
- Hazardous materials spills
- Mechanical failures
- Insufficient track maintenance
- Defects in trains or tracks
- Excessive speeds
Train accidents can cause a variety of damage to people and property, including burn injuries, brain injuries, broken bones, damage to or destruction of vehicles, contamination of property, and death. If any of these injuries or damages are the result of the negligence of the train owner or operator, or a third party responsible for the maintenance and safety of the train, tracks, or railroad crossing, an affected person may be able to pursue a claim with the assistance of an Arkansas train accident attorney.
Injured? Seek Help from Arkansas Train Accident Attorneys
If you or someone you love was injured or suffered property damage as the result of a train accident like the one that occurred in Hoxie, Arkansas, contact Attorney Group for Arkansas today to learn more about your options in pursuing a claim against the responsible party. We offer free, no obligation consultations, and if you determine that you are eligible to pursue a claim or file a lawsuit, we can connect you with an Arkansas train accident attorney who can assist you. The time to file a lawsuit is often limited, so call us today.
