Trains operating in Bakersfield and throughout Kern County can reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour. While rail travel can be an efficient alternative to congested roadways, it also carries serious risks. Train accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, whether the victim is a passenger, pedestrian, or driver near the tracks.
If you or a loved one was injured in a train accident, a Bakersfield train accident lawyer at Colvin Accident Lawyers is ready to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of railroad accident claims and are committed to protecting your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you.
Train tracks and rail systems are inherently dangerous, which is why safety regulations exist for operators, passengers, and the public. Despite these safeguards, train accidents still occur—often with devastating consequences.
Some of the most common types of train accidents include:
Train derailments
Pedestrian accidents involving trains
Collisions with passenger vehicles
Train-to-train collisions
Hazardous material spills
These incidents are frequently caused by factors such as:
Track defects or poor maintenance
Obstructions on the tracks
Mechanical or equipment failures
Human error by operators or maintenance crews
Adverse weather conditions
Determining the cause of a train accident is critical to establishing liability. A knowledgeable Bakersfield train accident attorney can investigate the incident, preserve evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf.
California is a fault-based state, meaning injured victims must prove negligence to recover compensation. Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may share liability for a train accident.
Many trains operating in Bakersfield are run by Amtrak or related rail operators. If a railroad company failed to properly maintain trains or tracks, adequately train employees, or comply with safety regulations, it may be held liable for resulting injuries.
If operator error, distraction, fatigue, or failure to follow safety procedures contributed to the accident, the conductor or engineer may bear responsibility.
Government agencies and third-party contractors often oversee track maintenance, crossings, and signal systems. Defective crossings, malfunctioning signals, or poor infrastructure may create liability for these entities.
Defective train components, braking systems, or warning devices may expose manufacturers to product liability claims.
Vehicles or individuals who illegally obstruct train tracks or ignore warning signals may also be held accountable for accidents and injuries they cause.
Train accidents are often traumatic and overwhelming. Taking the right steps afterward can help protect both your health and your legal claim. After a train accident, you should:
Seek immediate medical attention
Report the accident to law enforcement and railway authorities
Document the scene with photos or videos if possible
Collect witness contact information
Preserve medical records and related documentation
Contact a Bakersfield train accident lawyer as soon as possible
Prompt legal action is especially important in train accident cases, which often involve multiple defendants, federal regulations, and strict deadlines.
If your injuries were caused by negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses (current and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Property damage
Long-term disability or rehabilitation costs
An experienced attorney can help ensure all damages—both immediate and long-term—are fully evaluated and pursued.
Train accident claims are legally complex and often aggressively defended. You do not have to face this process alone. The Bakersfield attorneys at Colvin Accident Lawyers have experience handling serious injury claims involving train wrecks and railroad negligence.
We are here to answer your questions, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to speak with a Bakersfield train accident lawyer and schedule your consultation.
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