Luckily, train accidents are not very common. That being said, accidents can happen, and when train accidents occur, they are often serious. Read on to learn more about train accidents in Pennsylvania.
How do Train Accidents Occur?
Train accidents can occur for any number of reasons. Most train accidents are a result of:
- Train conductors, operators, or crew working while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Broken tracks
- Unfastened screws and bolts in tracks
- Misaligned tracks
- Inattentive train conductors
- Delayed cars on the track
- Unprotected railroad crossings
- Derailments
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. In order to recover the compensation you deserve, you will have to fulfill the burden of proof. This means you and your attorney will have to provide proof that your accident was caused by the negligence of another party. One way to obtain this evidence is by taking pictures and videos at the scene of the accident. Another important step to take is seeking medical attention. This will allow you to obtain proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. A skilled attorney may be able to obtain further evidence, such as security camera footage.
What is the Statute of Limitations?
If you have been injured in a train accident, you may be suffering emotionally, physically, and financially. You likely deserve compensation for these newfound burdens. In order to begin the process, you will have to file your personal injury claim. In Pennsylvania, you will generally have two years from the date of the accident to file your claim. But, train accidents can be more complicated, as you may be suing a municipality or government organization. In this case, you will first have to file a Note of Claim. This will notify the responsible party that you intend to take legal action. Generally, this must be done within six months from the date of the accident. Failing to file on time will likely mean losing your opportunity to take legal action and recover the compensation you deserve. To avoid missing important deadlines, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Pennsylvania train injury, reach out to our firm today. We are here to advocate for you and walk you through the process every step of the way.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
Friedman Schuman is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman today to schedule a consultation.
