Firefighter Dies In Train Accident

Posted by Victor Dela Casa

Railway accidents in the United States and Canada are often a deadly affair that is both saddening and, in most cases, avoidable. Just recently, an adult male's attempt to drive a pick-up truck across railroad tracks resulted in a fatal motor vehicle accident and his eventual death.

Sources reported from eye witness accounts that the fatal accident happened when the driver of the pick-up truck ran a stop sign as the train passed that afternoon. Witnesses added that the train hit the truck, causing it to flip and dragging it about 100 yards upside down.

According to local police, the railroad crossing has several warning signs but has neither lights nor any other mechanical devices. Residents agree that changes could have made the crossing safer as some trains are not always that loud and bright.

“They could put some lights up. If they put lights on, that would tell people there’s a train there if you’re not paying attention,” one resident said.

The victim was later identified as a 27-year-old firefighter with a South Carolina fire department. He left a wife and three children. City officials are meeting to discuss possible changes and improvements to the area.

Train collision with smaller vehicles is a very deadly type of accident that could’ve been easily avoided with proper warning mechanisms. According to the Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis and the U.S. Department of Transportation, each year accidents involving trains tally around 7,000 in the U.S. These accidents often occur at railway crossings. Death tolls each year is around 800 and injuries to 3,000 more is usually attributed to the railroad’s own neglect. An accident could be averted if tracks are maintained regularly and warning devices are properly in place.

While you can't pay off grief, if you or your loved one is a victim of a fatal train accident, it is necessary to speak to a legal professional who can assist in providing sound advice and information to any forms of compensation. This includes medical bills, wages and any claims for wrongful deaths that often cause pain and suffering to a victim’s survivor.

About The Author

Victor Dela Casa is a Filipino-Canadian who spent over a decade working as a business professional in Canada. Worked in IT, finance, marketing, international trade, public service, project management and the maritime industry. Degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines and Honours Diploma from Eastern College. Currently based in the Philippines and working as a professional writer for a multi-national business processes firm.