Positive Train Control: What Use is an Inactive or Absent Safety Feature?
The past few months have certainly not been good for trains. Multiple high-profile wrecks--three in as many months--have brought the public's gimlet eye down upon Amtrak, one of the most recognizable names in train transportation. For those who don't follow the news (who could blame you these days?), here's a quick summary of the most...
How Does Suing Amtrak Work?
In the wake of the deadly Amtrak trail derailment Tuesday, December 19th, near Dupont, Washington, a lot of people are pretty ticked off with Amtrak. The accident left 3 people dead. They are Jim Hamre, 61, Zack Wilhoite, 35, and Benjamin Gran, 40. In addition, nearly 100 people suffered injuries, which varied greatly in their...
Are Railroads Liable for Hitting Cars or Pedestrians on Their Tracks?
Many people assume that pedestrians and the drivers of cars are always at fault whenever they are struck by a train. This is built on the assumption that the pedestrian or car unlawfully entered the train's right of way and the train couldn't possibly stop in time, so the railroad is therefore innocent while the...
