In a collision involving an iron locomotive and a motor vehicle, most people would thank their lucky stars if they were tucked away inside the train. However in a recent case, a Union Pacific Railroad employee claims he was hurt when a truck collided with the train.
Myron Lynn Reed of Bridge City filed a personal injury suit in the Orange County District Court on Jan. 24. Reed is suing truck driver Santiago Cadena for negligently causing the collision, J&S Builders for allowing Cadena to drive the truck and Union Pacific for failing to provide him with a safe place to work.
According to his petition, on Oct. 23, 2007, Reed was working for UPR and engaged in interstate commerce when Cadena, driving a J&S Builders truck, "negligently operated his vehicle" by "causing a collision with a train."
The suit does not give anymore specifics on the incident but continues by alleging UPR was negligent for failing to provide Reed with a safe place to work and for failing to install cross arms at the railroad crossing, which would "prevent vehicles from entering."
The suit faults J&S Builders with negligence for "entrusting its vehicle to Cadena."
"Because of the nature of his injuries, Plaintiff suffered great physical and mental pain," the suit said, adding that Reed hurt his back, neck and shoulder in the collision.
Reed is suing for punitive damages, plus past and future mental anguish, lost wages and medical expenses.
He is represented by Provost Umphrey attorney Matthew Matheny.
The case has been assigned to the 260th Judicial District, Judge Buddy Hahn presiding.
Case No. D-080030-c