Railroad Accidents

North Dakota Train Accident Lawyer

Railroad Crossing Accidents • Train Wreck Chemical Spills

Collecting rightful damages from a railroad accident requires a lawyer who understands the rail industry, federal laws and the history of such accidents, and a lawyer who has knowledge of the local geography. Larson Law Firm of Minot, North Dakota, has secured compensation on behalf of many train accident victims.

Attorney Mark V. Larson has practiced personal injury law for over 25 years. Known for his aggressive and thorough approach, he represents railroad accidents clients throughout North Dakota and northwest Minnesota:

• Railroad crossing accidents resulting in serious injury or death
• Train derailments resulting in health effects from toxic chemical leaks

On Jan. 18, 2002, a Canadian Pacific train derailed on the outskirts of Minot, resulting in the largest anhydrous ammonia spill in U.S. history. Larson Law Firm represented the largest number of individually filed cases and resolved many of them ahead of similar claims handled by other attorneys. We recovered substantial settlements for local residents who suffered permanent eye injuries, severe chemical burns, and asthma and respiratory disorders. The settlements relied on evidence that Canadian Pacific's lightest stretch of track ran through Minot and that the railroad track was not properly maintained or upgraded since a previous derailment and spill in the same vicinity.

Crossing Accidents

We have also litigated personal injuries or wrongful death claims arising from car-train collisions at controlled or uncontrolled crossings. Mr. Larson uses investigators familiar with railroad accidents or visits accident scenes himself to prove the railroad's negligence:

• Failure to warn (blowing horn at a specified distance)
• Failure to maintain crossing arms or lights
• Failure to clear brush and trees obstructing the victim's view

Mr. Larson obtains the railway company's "black box" records, which provide critical information on the train's speed, how far from the crossing the initial horn blew, and whether the horn blew again or brakes were applied in the moments before impact.

Larson Law Firm has demonstrated credentials in these accidents. Contact our experienced attorney toll-free at (866) 309-1777 to discuss your personal injury claim in a free consultation.