Causes of Railroad and Train Accidents

There are different reasons for train accidents. Most of the accidents take place at crossings when vehicles beat a train. When these accidents happen, they may involve the driver, passersby and passengers. Here are some common reasons for train accidents.

Human error

If a conductor is inexperienced, train accidents may happen easily. Even people who are working in the industry may make mistakes that prove harmful to other people. Fatigue is another problem with new and experienced conductors. They are unable to operate a train safely if they are exhausted. Unfortunately, they often do this because of pressure from the company and supervisor.

Negligence

Rail accidents often happen because of the negligence of different groups of people. Sometimes, a railway company will be at fault. One example of their negligence is when they operate a crossing arm incorrectly. Moreover, the operator forgets to turn the signal light on that must provide sufficient warning.

A common issue is the use of outdated and decades-old technology for trains and railways. Undoubtedly, better technology is available to improve safety. Railway departments often avoid these installations because it requires a hefty investment. 

Reckless Drivers and Pedestrians

Train accidents may not always be a fault of the company or train operator. In numerous cases, a distracted or reckless pedestrian may become the reason for the collision by crossing the tracks or standing on at the wrong time. Moreover, the driver of a motorcycle, truck or car may cause an accident by parking their vehicle on a track.

Speedy trains

Recklessly fast driving may increase the chances of deaths and serious injuries. Numerous train accidents showed that the quick train might worsen the consequences of a crash or accident.

Mechanical failure

The railway employees, train operators and company, may do everything within their capability to follow essential safety procedures. It does not finish the probability of a train accident. Defective parts and mechanical failure are more than common reasons for train collisions. Any mechanical failure may increase the chances of deadly accidents.

Derailments

A derailment means a train runs off the rail because of a collision with an object, error of a conductor, broken rails, defective wheels or mechanical failure. Remember, a derailment does not mean the train will leave the tracks. However, derailments may be catastrophic if it occurs when a train is moving at high speed.

Defective Tracks

Obstruction is an essential issue with tracks and may cause a derailment. Several foreign objects inadvertently left at the location where the train may pass will be deadly. Conductors must be aware of their surroundings to manage the dangerous situation safely and quickly. Sometimes, conductors fail to see obstacles to stop a collision.

Stalled Cars on a Track

Cars may not get stuck on railroad crossings. In general, drivers stall out while slowing down to cross different bumpy grades because of a poorly tuned engine. If it happens, you should try to start your car again instantly. Sometimes, you fail to start a car; therefore, ask for assistance to push your car off the track.

Vulnerable Railroad Crossings

Over 80 percent of railroad crossings lack sufficient warning devices, including gates and lights.  Several railroad accidents happen at unprotected intersections. Accidents at unprotected crossings may be caused by driver distraction, poor visibility, malfunctioning signals, wrong behavior of drivers, etc.

Suicides

Unfortunately, numerous people fail to take the stress of their lives and prefer to take their lives. People often killed themselves by striding in front of the train. This desperate and tragic act may endanger other people’s lives, such as bystanders, passengers, emergency responders, and train crews.