Sheri Foltz Died In Odin Amtrak Train Accident

Wrongful Death - November 15, 2023

Sheri Foltz, of Patoka, Died In Odin Amtrak Train Accident At Unprotected Crossing Just North of US 50 Along West Line Road

Sheri Foltz Died In Odin Amtrak Train Accident

ODIN, ILLINOIS (November 15, 2023) – A 60-year-old woman identified as Sheri Foltz has tragically died in an Odin Amtrak accident at an unprotected train crossing.

Marion County officials are saying that the accident took place around 3:40 p.m. on Friday. Sheri Foltz was crossing the railroad crossing when her vehicle was hit by an Amtrak train.

Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the victim. Despite life-saving measures, Sheri Foltz was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities said that there was a lack of crossing arms at the intersection. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.

Liability For Odin Amtrak Train Accidents

Train accidents are actually very common. According to the National Safety Council, “In 2020, railroad incidents resulted in 5,479 injuries, compared to 7,983 in 2019. Twelve percent of the total (684) occurred at rail-crossings, down 18% from the 2019 total of 835.” There are a number of steps that can be taken in order to prevent train accidents.

  • Train operators should continuously scan the tracks ahead  of them for hazards.
  • Train operators should be well trained to follow safety protocols.
  • Cities should install crossing arms at most train crossings.

Depending on the facts of any case, the company or municipal entity that owned a set of tracks could be liable for a train accident. Pursuant to Illinois Civil Code (740 ILCS 130/), property owners have a duty to warn about, or otherwise take action to correct, dangerous conditions that exist on their property. When a property owner fails to take action to correct a dangerous condition on their property, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. There are many ways that a set of train tracks could be in a dangerous condition.

  • A railroad crossing may have malfunctioning crossing guards or lights.
  • A railroad crossing may lack adequate crossing guards or lights.
  • A railroad crossing may have defective tracks that cause vehicles to become stuck.

It is also possible that an Amtrak driver was traveling too fast for the prevailing conditions. Trains have speed limits in much the same ways that cars do. If an Amtrak operator fails to slow down to avoid hazards, Amtrak could potentially be liable for a collision. The family of any person that died in a train accident may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.

Investigating Odin Amtrak Train Accidents

We at Horwitz Horwitz & Associates extend our deepest condolences to the family of Sheri Foltz. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to authorities. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other tragedies like this.

Do you need more information about an Odin Amtrak train accident? Our team of railway safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that railways crossings are as safe as possible. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (312) 564-4256.