Arkansas Train Accident Lawyer
Experienced Train Accident Attorney Serving Clients in Arkansas
Railway companies need to be concerned about public safety in Arkansas and to take steps to prevent serious injuries in train collisions and derailments. Train accidents happen much too frequently because of railroad company negligence. Railroads are supposed to ensure that passengers are safe from injuries in a derailment, and that train maintenance or faulty tracks do not lead to the serious or fatal injury of a pedestrian or passenger vehicle occupant. However, public safety remains a serious concern around train tracks and on passenger trains throughout Arkansas.
When another party’s negligence results in a serious train accident, it is important for the victims to learn more about filing a claim for financial compensation. Were you recently injured in a train collision or derailment? You may be eligible to file a lawsuit and should discuss your case with a Arkansas train accident lawyer as soon as possible.
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“Integrity”
“In addition to his substantive contributions to railroad grade crossing safety, I have personally observed his untiring efforts and contributions to improving the integrity of the legal system.”- Elizabeth Hardy -
“Beyond Belief”
“His knowledge of the rail industry and his willingness to share his knowledge with other people who do railroad work is beyond belief to me.”- Mike Bee -
“Given Hope”
“Through his efforts, he has single-handedly given hope to victims who are injured or killed as a result of dangerous railroad crossings”- Donald Vasos -
“Impressed”
“Nathan is a warrior fighting the railroads.”- Jonathon (Jon) C. Clark -
“Excellent Results”
“Nathan Karlin has my strongest endorsement in the field of railroad crossing cases and personal injury law.”- Joseph M. Miller -
“Would Recommend Without Hesitation”
“In each case, Nathan always possessed an incredible knowledge of the law and the facts, possessed a great talent for aggressive – strategic legal planning and trial tactics while, at the same time, displaying great skill as an effective negotiator.”- Scott McCluen -
“First Call is Nathan's Firm”
“Nathan’s knowledge and experience in handling and trying cases against these litigation savvy railroad companies gives me the confidence to know that the clients and cases I refer to him are getting the best of the best.”- James Perrin -
“Hard-Working”
“The staff is helpful, professional, and responsive.”- Tracy D.
Why Do Train Accidents Happen in Arkansas?
As a press release from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) explains, the law gives trains the right of way “because they cannot swerve, stop quickly, or change directions to avert collisions.” However, just because trains have the right of way does not mean that railroad companies and train employees are not liable for accidents and injuries. To be sure, some of the most common causes of train accidents in Arkansas and throughout the country include but are not limited to the following:
- Train conductor negligent or careless behavior (such as disobeying train speed limits, distracted driving, drowsy driving, or even drunk driving);
- Signal operator negligence;
- Switch operator negligence;
- Brake operator negligence;
- Failure to properly maintain rails or tracks;
- Failure to properly maintain train cars, motors, or other train parts; and
- Defective train components.
Sometimes motorists and pedestrians also bear some responsibility for train crashes. For example, a Newsweek article notes that numerous pedestrian deaths in train accidents result from trespassing. In other instances, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists may disobey oncoming train warnings, assuming that they “outrun” a train, so to speak. In many collisions and derailments, however, the railway company bears at least a portion of the blame.
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Purpose-Driven Representation
We handle each case with the belief that the legal system should be a tool for positive change. Our work often leads to broader safety improvements, not just individual outcomes.
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Focused on Serious Injury Cases
Our practice centers on railroad crossing accidents and other catastrophic injuries. These complex cases demand deep experience and a commitment to long-term impact.
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Personalized, Accessible Legal Support
We maintain a welcoming environment where clients are heard, supported, and informed. Our team approach ensures you’re never left wondering where your case stands.
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Free Consultations, Contingency-Based FeesWe offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover compensation for you. It’s one way we make justice more accessible for those who need it most.
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Comparative Fault or Contributory Negligence in an Arkansas Train Accident
In many civil suits involving personal injury, the defendant will bring up comparative fault or contributory negligence as a defense. In short, comparative fault and contributory negligence are theories of law concerning the plaintiff’s responsibility, or liability, for her injuries.
Depending on where your Arkansas train accident occurred, you should understand how comparative fault might affect your case. Under Arkansas law, as long as a plaintiff is less than 50 percent at fault, she can still recover. Her damages will be reduced, however, by the proportion or percentage of her fault.
What do we mean when we say the award will be reduced by the percentage of the plaintiff’s fault? For example, if a jury awards a total of $100,000 but says a plaintiff is 20 percent at fault, then the plaintiff’s award will be reduced by 20 percent, or $20,000. In this scenario, the plaintiff would recover $80,000.