Head-On UP Train Accident in Oklahoma

Three UP crew members, two engineers and one conductor, were initially unaccounted for after the head-on freight train accident in Oklahoma, but their remains were later recovered. Killed in the UP train collision were Brian Stone, Dan Hall and John Hall., One UP conductor, Juan Zurita, humped prior to the freight trains colliding and was reported to be in good condition.

Excessive summer heat made it difficult for firefighters and rescuers responding to the freight train collision in Oklahoma. Red Cross volunteers were on the scene of the UP train derailment, too.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the Oklahoma UP train accident, along with UP officials. The NTSB is looking into:

• Why one of the UP freight trains did not pull into a side track to allow the other train to safely pass;
• If cell phones played any part in the UP train collision; and
• If rest periods / sleep deprivation may have contributed in any way to the accident.

Hoey & Farina extends our thoughts and prayers to the family, friends and co-workers of the railroad workers tragically killed in this UP train accident.

UPDATE:  On February 26, 2013, the NTSB, FRA, Union Pacific Railroad, United Transportation Union and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen will attend an investigative hearing concerning this UP head-on collision in Oklahoma.  One of the anticipated subjects is said to be concerning Positive Train Control, and if it had been in place, could it have prevent the train accident.

If you or a loved one have suffered a serious injury or wrongful death due to a train accident, Hoey & Farina can help. We are experienced FELA lawyers / train injury attorneys with a proven track record of successfully litigating personal injury cases against railroads. Call Hoey & Farina at 1-888-425-1212, or complete this form, for your free consultation. Hoey & Farina represents railroaders and their families throughout the United States.