Lack of Driver Training Blamed in North Carolina Lawsuit
In March 2015, a tragedy occurred in North Carolina that resulted in injuries to 55 passengers who were aboard a train when it collided with a semi-truck. The tractor-trailer involved in the case was reportedly stopped on the railroad tracks, although signs were reportedly clearly posted prohibiting vehicles from stopping. The railroad company has claimed a lack of driver training and negligence on the part of the trucking company in its recently filed case.
The tractor-trailer was said to have been carrying an over-sized load when it stopped on the railroad tracks in an attempt to make a left-hand turn. The plaintiff’s claim states that the truck driver knew his vehicle was stopped on the tracks in violation of the visible signs that prohibited such an action, and, therefore, he should have promptly notified the railroad authorities in order to prevent a potential disaster. The complaint says that the driver and trucking company’s failure to alert the railroad led to the derailment of the train when it came around a curve and collided with the truck.
At the time, the train was carrying an eight-person crew and 213 passengers. The railroad company is seeking punitive and compensatory damages due to gross negligence and negligent hiring on the part of the trucking company. A recent report stated that the railroad company also requests indemnification for any passenger who might file a personal injury claim in the aftermath of the incident.
North Carolina travelers who are injured in motor vehicle accidents due to lack of driver training or other negligence on the part of other drivers involved in the collisions sometimes face unexpected expenses due to ongoing medical bills or rehabilitation needs. An injured person might also suffer a loss of wages if injuries prevent him or her from returning to work. In such a case, it might be prudent to consider filing a personal injury claim in a civil court in order to seek compensation for damages.
