The UP, like all the big seven, has a policy of going all out to help vets. By settling out of court, they do not injure the public relations aspects of that policy. That there were four veterans made this a very special case for them.
Have fun with your trains
You said it Leo, the american way.
The “court-ordered mediation” concerns me, and might explain why UP settled. Oh, the glories of coercion!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- K.P.’s absolute “theorem” from early, early childhood that he has seen over and over and over again: Those that CAUSE a problem in the first place will act the most violently if questioned or exposed.
I'd opine that they were one of several deep pockets that were sued, particularly in view of the plaintiff's assertion that there was not enough warning.
In a case like this, folks sue pretty much everybody who is even remotely associated. I wouldn't be surprised to find that the manufacturer of the crossing signal equipment somehow got dragged into it, among others.
That UP settled is more an indication that it was going to be cheaper to settle than that the railroad had any culpability. That's often the case.
Larry Resident Microferroequinologist (at least at my house) Everyone goes home; Safety begins with you My Opinion. Standard Disclaimers Apply. No Expiration Date Come ride the rails with me! There's one thing about humility - the moment you think you've got it, you've lost it...
That's the American way.
I am confused as to why Union Pacific had to pay anything? Why was there a lawsuit against them? Clearly they were not at fault.
Mechanical Department "No no that's fine shove that 20 pound set all around the yard... those shoes aren't hell and a half to change..."
The Missabe Road: Safety First
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/attorney-26-settle-suit-texas-parade-crash-killed-28277143
Twenty-six people who were hurt or had family members killed when a freight train struck a veterans parade float in Midland two years ago have settled their lawsuit against Union Pacific Railroad, both sides said Friday.
Lawyer Kevin Glasheen, who represents the families, said the settlement is confidential but they "are very satisfied." The families of two of the four veterans killed in the November 2012 crash were part of the agreement. Many others were injured.
"It's sufficient to give them security and comfort in their lives," Glasheen said of the settlement amount.
. . . . .
An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board blamed the accident on city and parade organizers, faulting a lack of safety planning by both. The plaintiffs claimed a short warning from the train crossing lights and gates was the principal cause.
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