A driver was injured recently when his car was struck by a train at a south Houston crossing and pushed 75 to 100 yards down the track, according to a report by KTRK-TV. Witnesses said the man was at an auto salvage yard when he heard the train coming, hopped in his car and sped toward it.
The accident was among three train accidents in the Houston area within a week, according to the news report. Also recently, a 16-year-old was struck and killed by a freight train as he and his friends attempted to cross the tracks, KHOU reported. They were crossing in front of a stopped train and didn’t see the other one coming.
Union Pacific Railroad is urging drivers and pedestrians to be cautious around trains and to remember that trains cannot stop quickly. When you approach train tracks, whether on foot or in a vehicle, expect a train to be coming. This way, you will be sure to look a few times before crossing. While most crossings have rails, there is always the chance that they will malfunction.
Never try to “beat” a train. You might be in a rush and the train might make you late. But an accident would make you even later.
If your car stalls on the tracks, get out and call for help immediately. Don’t attempt to fix your vehicle or wait on the tracks.
Finally, if you are a passenger in a vehicle, be the second set of eyes and ears for the driver—always looking out for accident hazards like trains or reckless drivers. While no one wants a “back seat driver,” speaking up could help save lives.
While train accidents are relatively rare, they can happen even to cautious drivers.
Houston Accident Attorney
If you were hurt in a Houston area accident that wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t be responsible for the medical bills and other expenses. Houston personal injury and accident attorney Kevin Krist may be able to help. To discuss your case and the legal options available to you, call 281-677-3964 or use the convenient online form.
