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In October 2021, the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) filed a merger application with the Federal Surface Transportation Board to create a single-line rail network to link Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This rail network would be the only one of its kind, cutting through Bensenville, Bartlett, Elgin, Itasca, Hanover Park, Wood Dale, Roselle, and Schaumburg.

As of March 10, 2022, the Elgin City Council voted to finalize agreements with the seven other municipalities and DuPage County in a coalition to block the merger between two railroads—the “Coalition to Stop CPKC.”

The Negative Implications of the Merger

The railroad merger between Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern could triple train traffic in Downtown Elgin. The trains running through the city would also be longer, which would lead to longer crossing delays for emergency responders, school buses, and commuters. Additionally, the railroad tracks downtown are near Fox River, so a potential derailment or accident could cause severe damages and environmental harm.

Why Are Train Accidents So Severe?

Train accidents are devastating events. Given the size, weight, and speed of most trains, any collision or derailment could lead to catastrophic injuries. With more freight trains running through Downtown Elgin, the chances that a train will strike a pedestrian or car will increase.

Railroad accidents are often the result of human error and equipment error, including:

• Defective rails
• Faulty communication equipment
• Malfunction of warning lights/sounds and brakes

The entities responsible for these errors may be held liable for an accident.

Reach Out to An Attorney Today

Train accidents can have severe long-term consequences. If you or someone you know has been injured in a railroad accident, you should reach out to a personal injury attorney from our firm. Contact us today to discuss your legal options.