A large number of motor vehicle collisions involve two cars colliding with one another. Sometimes, a crash occurs between a single motor vehicle and some other object. People hit buildings or trees. They can also end up in crashes with other types of vehicles, such as trains.
Crashes involving trains are more common than many motorists in Kentucky might realize. Many people cross railroad tracks multiple times during their daily commute and think nothing of it. In fact, some people resent waiting at railroad crossings. They may intentionally drive around the automated arms or ignore the flashing lights warning them that a train might be on its way.
Drivers often assume that they can see, hear and even feel a train approaching before it gets too close. Collision statistics make it obvious that that assumption is not correct.
Collisions with trains are shockingly common
Frustrations about delays combined with unrealistic expectations can make it very dangerous for people to deviate from the rules at a railroad crossing. Stopping and waiting when the lights illuminate or the arms lower is not just required by law. It is necessary for personal safety.
The size of trains can make their approach seem deceptively slow. People often think they have more time to cross the tracks than they really do. Some railroad crossings don’t offer an adequate view of approaching tracks. Drivers may not be able to see a train until it is incredibly close.
While it is standard practice to sound the horn on a train when approaching intersections in busy urban areas, train operators may not indicate their approach in rural areas or late at night. Distraction on the part of motorists can even contribute to their likelihood of overlooking an approaching train and ending up in a major collision as a result.
According to federal train collision data, an incident involving a person or a vehicle occurs roughly every three hours somewhere in the country. Kentucky absolutely contributes to those statistics. In 2022, the state saw 41 reported train collisions that led to 10 injuries and four deaths. A motor vehicle collision involving a train is likely to cause catastrophic vehicle damage and could result in major injuries or death.
In some cases, those affected may have grounds to take legal action when negligence or intentional conduct causes a crash. Discussing the circumstances surrounding a train collision with a skilled legal team can help people demand accountability after a major incident at a Kentucky railroad crossing.