Due to Arizona train accidents being on the rise as of late, railroad officials have made their move to stop this trend. Just this year alone from January to September, railroad fatalities have risen to five while 12 victims were seriously injured. These are significantly higher numbers than from 2009 when only two deaths and three injuries were reported in the same time frame (ABC 15 12/14/2010).
With the combined efforts of Arizona Operation Lifesaver and Union Pacific, community officials, law enforcement, and railroad leaders were invited to witness for themselves the fatal accidents that may occur anytime on the railway by bringing the Union Pacific Safety Train to Tempe. On a trip to Gilbert, driver and commuter mistakes were pointed out that could cause safety issues. This is for the purpose of increasing safety awareness and to urge the authorities to increase citations to those who break railroad laws.
The rising number of railroad accidents is not only for Arizona, but for the rest of the country as well. The Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis has released alarming data showing railroad accidents, excluding highway-rail, reaching more than 1,800 in 2009. This shows that a lot of work needs to be done to address railway safety concerns.
If you or a loved one were a victim of a railroad accident and are looking for some answers, drop us a call at (480) 753-4534 for your free consultation. Being one of the leading Arizona accident law firms, we may be able to assist you.
