Trains travel on fixed routes along tracks that crisscross the country and Illinois is no exception. Chicago has long been considered a national hub for train traffic and to this day continues to host many types of trains, from passenger cars like the CTA and Metra to freight trains and cargo trains to national carriers like Amtrak. These trains run daily and take passengers or goods from one point to another, easing traffic that would otherwise congest the already congested roadways.
While the routes may be limited, it is not a guarantee that accidents will not occur. In fact, approximately 175 train collisions take place in Illinois every year and many of them cause injuries. When a passenger train is involved, there are dozens or even thousands of potential victims who may sustain injuries ranging from bumps and bruises to broken bones or even death.
Train accidents can be complex and difficult to sort through for many reasons. For one, train collision can involve several types of vehicles. Some involve one train derailing or otherwise coming into dangerous conditions while others involve crashes between trains. In still other collisions, a car, bus, or van may be involved in a collision with a train while in Chicago, train versus semi-truck accidents happen every year. Unfortunately, there are also incidents where pedestrians and cyclists are injured in train collisions. With so many types of potential accidents, it is no wonder that victims may be left confused by their legal options. But speaking with a personal injury attorney may help you sort through the complexities to help you understand if you have a valid claim.
Yesterday, a train accident in River Grove set back schedules for much of the day and had a significant effect on some commuter traffic. According to officials, a train collided with an unoccupied car that was stopped on the tracks, leading to a collision that halted all traffic in the area. Officials investigated at the scene and the tracks were cleared, allowing train traffic to be restored later in the day.
There has been no official word yet on why the train and the empty car collided or why they were on the same track at the same time but several agencies are still reviewing the facts of this collision.
Fortunately, some collisions with trains involve only damage to the vehicles involved and do not cause injuries to those involved. Too often, though, people are left in need of medical treatment following a train crash.
Victims can incur substantial expenses and other financial losses due to an accident that they did not cause, leading them to wonder what legal recourse they may have. If you have been hurt or if your loved one was injured or killed, the laws in Chicago and in Illinois may entitle you to seek relief for your losses, including any medical expenses you incurred. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Chicago can help you get started on the path to recovery.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., our firm is comprised solely of attorneys who fight for victims’ rights, and if you have been hurt, we want to fight for you. We offer a free case consultation without any obligation to those who call us toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575 and we are standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If we can help you, do not hesitate. Call us now and let us fight for your rights following an accident.
Prior Blog Entry:
Rolling Meadows Car Crash Causes Injures, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published December 16, 2014.
Resource:
Metra Train Hits Unoccupied Car On Tracks In River Grove, ABC 7 Chicago, published December 16, 2014.