• 10 Nov 2025

Train Accidents in North Carolina: What You Need to Know

At Paul Robinson Law, we help people who have been seriously injured in accidents—including train accidents. Train-related injuries may not make the headlines as often as car crashes, but they can be life-changing or even fatal. Here’s what you should know if a train accident happens in North Carolina.

How Common Are Train Accidents in NC?

Train accidents in North Carolina happen more often than most people realize:

• In 2023, there were 46 crashes at railroad crossings, resulting in 4 deaths and 10 injuries.

• About 20 people died walking on or along train tracks in the same year.

• Over the past several years, North Carolina averaged 32 train accidents annually, including derailments.

• Most accidents (about 72%) happen on yard tracks, not mainline tracks, and are often caused by human error(38%) or track defects (30%).

Even “minor” train accidents can result in severe injuries because of the size and weight of trains.

Common Types of Train Accidents

1. Vehicle vs. Train at a Crossing
   Cars or trucks collide with trains at railroad crossings, often due to ignored signals or trying to beat the train.

2. Pedestrian Strikes
   Walking on or near tracks is extremely dangerous. Trespassing is illegal and leads to many fatalities.

3. Train Derailments or Collisions
   Less common but still serious, derailments can involve hazardous materials or equipment failure.

Why Train Accidents Happen

• Ignoring crossing gates or signals.

• Trespassing on tracks.

• Poor track maintenance or faulty equipment.

• Human error by train operators or drivers.

• Many accidents occur in yards or sidings, where trains move slowly but the risk is still high.

What to Do If You Are Injured

Train accidents can involve multiple parties: train companies, track owners, local governments, or other drivers. If you or a loved one is injured:

• Act quickly: There’s a limited time to file a claim.

• Investigate thoroughly: Train logs, maintenance records, and crossing signals may be key.

• Seek legal help: Complex liability often requires an experienced attorney.

• Know your rights: Injuries can be severe, and compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How to Stay Safe Around Trains

• Never stop on tracks; always wait until you can fully cross.

• Obey gates, lights, and warning signals.

• Avoid walking on or near railroad tracks.

• Be extra cautious near yard tracks, even if no train appears to be coming.

Read more about train accidents on the news 

Person dies after getting hit by train in busy Charlotte neighborhood

Amtrak hits, kills person in Garner; 4th pedestrian death involving trains in a week in central NC 

Final Thoughts Train accidents in North Carolina may not happen every day, but when they do, they can be catastrophic. Awareness, prevention, and prompt legal guidance are key. If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t wait—contact Paul Robinson Law today.