More New Lawsuits and New Laws Resulting from Midland Tragedy
A report on KCBD News offered details about new lawsuits and new proposed laws as a result of train accident in Midland last illed-11-that four veterans and injured several others. The tragedy occurred when a parade float carrying wounded veterans and their wives was moving across railroad tracks and the crossing gates suddenly came down. A freight train came speeding out of nowhere and slammed into the float.
There are now almost two dozen victims who are involved in the lawsuit that was filed against the railroad, Union Pacific and Smith Industries, the company who provided the truck and driver the float was being driven by. According to the lawsuit, some of the victims who were injured in the crash suffered injuries resulting in amputations, paralysis and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Union Pacific has in turn filed lawsuits against Smith Industries. They also are preparing to file suits against Midland County, the City of Midland and the parade event organizers as responsible third parties.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted an investigation after the accident and found that the accident site’s railroad crossing should have given a 30-second warning due to the speed of the train, but only a 20-second warning was given. The investigation also revealed that organizers of the event, which was a Show of Support parade honoring the military, never applied for a city permit for the event.
The Midland City Council recently approved several new city ordinances regarding special events and parade permits.The new law states that no permits will be issued for any event involving crossing railroad tracks. Organizers will need to seek permission from the railroad company and show proof of permission to the city. Organizers are also now required to obtain insurance for events.
If you have been injured in any type of accident, consult with a qualified Texas personal injury attorney to find out what compensation you may be entitled to for you pain and loss.
