Attempts are underway to enforce the installment of safety devices in railroad systems throughout the country. The innovative technology known as Positive Train Control (PTC) uses wireless communications, GPS devices, and central control centers to automatically deploy the use of a braking system on a train that is in imminent danger of crashing or derailing. This is a life-saving technological advance that could drastically change the course of railroad industry development from here on out. In fact, reports show that more than 20 railroad accidents since 2001 could have been prevented if this new safety technology had been implemented before now.
The positive effects of PTC technology seem to be a good reason to make implementation of the system the next logical step that should be taken in upgrading the safety systems of railroads and train cars throughout the world. However, the technology is being met with firm resistance on the end of railroad companies that are expressing their belief that the technology is too expensive. The mandated implementation of Positive Train Control was made four years ago by the federal government. The federal legislation came as a reaction to the Chatsworth, California crash in 2008 that killed 25 and left 135 more passengers and personnel injured. In the past 11 years, a total of 28 individuals have lost their lives in train accidents, making claims for PTC implementation not only understandable but justifiable.
As it stands, railroad companies have expressed their concern about the expenses that will be incurred by implementing the PTC system. Supported by Republicans throughout the country, many railroad companies are pushing to have the required implementation pushed back by three years. While finances are tight for many, it is still difficult to understand the strong resistance that railroad companies are showing towards a safety system that could vastly improve the train system and save the lives of many. Right now, the industry is somewhat split as to what to do. While the National Transportation Safety Board has outspokenly advocated on behalf of PTC, the Federal Railroad Administration has sided with the rail companies in favor of delaying the safety system.
No matter what happens, the safety system will not be instated any earlier than the end of the ear 2015 for this is the date that was established for final implementation of PTC when the original Rail Safety Improvement Act was signed by President George W. Bush in 2008. Therefore, it is not unlikely that more rail accidents and train collisions could continue to occur until the system is implemented; or if it is implemented. Until a final decision is made in regard to this debate, it will be important for the victims of railway accidents and train collisions to seek legal support in the wake of a disaster of this nature.
The Doan Law Firm, P.C. is available to assist those who have been the unfortunate victims of any type of railroad accident in Texas. As a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, I, Houston personal injury lawyer Jimmy Doan, am skilled in all matters of personal injury law. Since 2005 I have been practicing in the field and I have been recognized by some of the nation's largest broadcasting companies for my knowledge in the field. Whether you have suffered a catastrophic injury or you have lost a loved one in a wrongful death train collision, I am here to help. Railroad accidents are serious matters that should not be taken lightly or addressed with nonchalance. I will devote my undivided attention to your case to ensure that everything in my power has been done in order to provide you with the best possible outcome for your case. To learn more, do not hesitate to contact a Houston railroad accident attorney from my firm today.