4 Dead, Over 100 Injured in Fatal Train Accident Outside Kansas City
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating a deadly train derailment that took the lives of three passengers and the driver of a dump truck that was stopped at a crossing grade. The accident occurred at around 12:40 pm on June 27, 2022. The collision between the passenger train and the truck caused the complete derailment of two locomotives and all eight cars. The Southwest Chief Train 4 was headed from Los Angeles to Chicago when it crashed near Mendon, Missouri.
At Bishop & Hayes, we represent individuals who have been seriously injured or lost a loved one in transportation accidents. We have offices located throughout Missouri, including in Springfield and Joplin. Our lawyers have recovered over $75 million in verdicts and settlements for our clients and will work hard to ensure you receive the largest recovery possible.
If you were affected by the recent Amtrak derailment, contact our office at (417) 304-3228 to book a free consultation.
Tragedy on the Tracks
According to a statement released by Amtrak, Southwest Chief Train 4 derailed at 12:42 pm while traveling eastbound on BNSF track. The passenger train carrying approximately 275 passengers and 12 crew members on board was headed from Los Angeles to Chicago when it struck a dump truck at a “passive crossing” located in rural Missouri. The impact caused a complete derailment of the train sending cars toppling off the tracks.
The collision resulted in the death of four people, including the driver of the dump truck. It is unclear why the truck was located at the grade crossing. However, ABC News reports that the intersection was a “passive crossing” or one that is not controlled by “railroad crossing bars, flashing lights or bells.” The NTSB has recommended for over two decades that all passive crossings be upgraded to “active crossings,” which include these safety features.
Deadly Crossings
The fatal train accident was the second in two days involving Amtrak. Just one day earlier, three people were killed, and two others were seriously injured when an Amtrak passenger train struck a vehicle located at a crossing that lacked gate arms or warning lights. As noted by CNN, the collision occurred in Brentwood, California, at an intersection where there had been previous crashes. Both train accidents are under investigation.
Contact Our Office to Discuss Your Legal Options
At Bishop & Hayes, we are here to help you and your family navigate through these challenging times. We have extensive experience handling complex injury cases. Our lawyers work relentlessly to help accident victims recover maximum damages for their injuries.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in the Missouri Amtrak train derailment, contact our office at (417) 304-3228. Every case is handled by a partner licensed to practice in Missouri with decades of experience. Get the focused, compassionate representation you deserve. Call our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no fees unless we win.