A train accident has been defined by the Federal Railroad Administration in a number of different terms. A train accident is a "collision, derailment, and other event involving the operation of on-track equipment." Train accidents cause "reportable damage above an established threshold" and generally involve collisions. Another form of train accident is derailment. A lesser-known category of train accidents is the occupational illness of railroad employees.
Even with decreasing rail service, in 1999 alone there were over 2,700 train related accidents. Although the vast majority of train accidents are minor, they can also be catastrophic. In 1999, more than 900 people died in train accidents, and many more were injured.
Train accidents can result in loss of life, property, and health. If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, please submit the accompanying form. You may be entitled to monetary awards for your injury!