One person was killed on September 27 in Antioch after his car was crushed by a train and burst into flames. According to WTVF-TV, the crash occurred around 3:30 p.m., near the road crossing of 5135 Hickory Hollow Parkway.
Officials had a hard time accessing the scene of the accident, as the train dragged the car to a spot about three-quarters away from the Antioch Pike. It was unclear if the fire started after the initial impact of the crash or if it started as the vehicle was dragged.
Emergency workers with the Nashville Fire Department and Metro Nashville Police Department responded to the scene of the crash. Officials believe at least one person was killed, but damage to the vehicle was so extensive that an initial investigation could not determine conclusively if anyone died—however, WTVF reported at least one fatality.
TENNESSEE RAILROAD ACCIDENTS
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration, Tennessee usually ranks in the top 15 states when it comes to railroad accidents each year. In 2004, there were a reported 292 railroad accidents in Tennessee.These accidents are defined as “collisions, derailments, and other events involving the operation of on-track equipment and causing reportable damage.”
Unfortunately, most railroad accidents are deadly. Some trains move at very high speeds and carry a lot of weight, making crashes significantly violent. Aside from death, these accidents can cause broken bones, organ damage, spinal cord injuries, lacerations, amputations, severe burns, traumatic brain injuries and scarring.
Sometimes railroad accidents are caused by poorly lit or unmarked tracks. Surprisingly, in most states, only a minority of train tracks have actual flashing lights and gates. In many areas, tracks are marked with cross bucks only.
If you lost a loved one in a railroad accident, let us help you. Contact our Nashville car accident attorney now at (615) 866-3938 for a free evaluation of your case. We will determine if faulty equipment or negligence contributed to your family members’ crash.
“Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.” – Romans 12:14