Salt Lake City, UT (May 18, 2025) – A man suffered critical injuries after being hit by a train early Friday morning in Salt Lake City. According to Salt Lake City Police, the incident occurred around 5:15 a.m. on May 16 near the area of 200 South and 700 West.
Authorities report the man was attempting to cross the tracks heading west through a designated pedestrian crossing when he was struck by a northbound Union Pacific train. The train was reportedly moving at a slow speed when the collision occurred.
Emergency medical crews responded swiftly to the scene and transported the man to a nearby hospital in critical condition. The area was temporarily closed to allow investigators to collect evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Union Pacific and Salt Lake City Police continue to investigate the incident.
We hope the injured man makes a full and quick recovery.
Train Accidents in Utah
Train-related accidents are rare but often result in serious or fatal injuries when they do occur. According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, incidents involving pedestrians and trains are especially severe due to the size and weight of locomotives. Utah maintains a network of freight and passenger lines that pass through populated areas, making rail safety a priority.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a train-related incident, it’s important to understand the potential legal and financial impact. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Severity of Injuries: Train accidents often result in traumatic injuries, such as head trauma, internal bleeding, broken bones, or even limb loss. Victims usually require extensive and long-term medical care.
- Railroad Liability: In some cases, railroad companies may be held accountable if crossing warnings were malfunctioning, if signage was inadequate, or if the train operator was negligent. Determining liability is essential for any legal claim.
- Pedestrian Rights: Pedestrians also have rights when crossing legally designated paths. If you were injured while using a public or marked crossing, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
- Mental and Emotional Effects: Survivors of train collisions often face emotional trauma such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety. These are valid damages that can be included in an injury claim.
- Ongoing Medical Expenses: Due to the severity of injuries, costs can quickly escalate. Victims may face a lifetime of care and need help accessing resources or filing claims to cover future medical expenses.
If your loved one has been impacted by a similar incident, it’s essential to consult with a car accident attorney who can also guide you through rail-related personal injury cases.
Timing is critical in these cases. Reaching out to a Salt Lake City personal injury attorney soon after the incident can help ensure that your rights are preserved, key evidence is collected, and any claims are filed within the legal timeframe. Don’t wait to get the help and support your case deserves.
At Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks, we’ve spent more than three decades helping Utah families affected by serious injuries. Our team offers personalized legal representation with no up-front costs—you only pay if we win. We believe in direct communication and transparency, and our attorneys work one-on-one with each client. Our firm charges lower rates than most and doesn’t increase fees for trial cases. With over 150 years of combined experience, we’re here to help you move forward. Call us at (801) 500-4000 for a free consultation.
