Promoting Safety around Illinois Railways

 Posted on September 19, 2014 in Personal Injury

Illinois railways can be the site of several serious accidents, including crashes involving trains or accidents with vehicles or pedestrians. As means to create an awareness of vehicle and pedestrian safety, Governor Quinn declared the week of September 14–20 as "Illinois Rail Safety Week." The week is meant to specifically address safety concerns about vehicles and pedestrians around trains and railroad tracks.

In 2013, there were approximately 126 crashes at railroad crossings involving cars in the state of Illinois. The crashes resulted in at least 40 injuries and 21 deaths. Also last year, 52 crashes involving pedestrians, who may have trespassed onto railroad property, ended in 27 injuries and 25 deaths. Across the country, Illinois came in third when ranked among others regarding fatalities from both car crashes and trespasser incidents.

Many state agencies have joined the cause, including the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the Chicago Police Department, and both local and railroad law enforcement, as well as first responders and representatives from railroad companies. All of these entities are working together to educate Illinois citizens about railway safety.

Events have been planned around railroad crossings and commuter stations across the state of Illinois. Law enforcement is also strictly enforcing railroad safety laws and citing any drivers or pedestrians who violate such rules. In addition, police officers are distributing written material to the public with train safety information in an attempt to educate citizens. The end goal of this first rail safety week in Illinois is to improve railway safety and put an end to avoidable deaths and injuries involving trains.

Accident Injury Attorney

Train accidents can occur in a number of ways, and involve different circumstances. Drivers and pedestrians alike are at risk when involved in a crash with a train or on railroad tracks. These cases often present serious personal injury issues, or even death.

If you were involved in an Illinois railway accident, contact the experienced Lombard personal injury attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices today to schedule a consultation to discuss your matter. We can help you identify your rights and work towards getting you the compensation you deserve. We serve clients in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Kendall and Will County.