Two Unrelated Train Derailments Weeks Apart in Gordon and Fort Worth Leave Damage, No Injuries

News4SanAntonio and NBC 5 reported two unrelated freight train accidents that occurred weeks apart in August.¹ ²

On Sunday, August 31st, nine cars of a Union Pacific freight train jumped the tracks in Fort Worth. As a precaution, officials issued a shelter-in-place order, which was later lifted. No injuries were reported, and officials confirmed that the public was never in danger. Two of the derailed cars were found leaking carbon dioxide.

Earlier in the month, on Tuesday, August 12th, 35 freight train cars derailed in Gordon, roughly 60 miles west of Fort Worth, near the Coalville Road Bridge. The accident happened at around 2 p.m. and caused small grass fires, which firefighters quickly contained. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and Union Pacific HAZMAT crews confirmed that no hazardous materials were spilled.

Both accidents remain under investigation.

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Did You Know?

There were 793 Class I derailments across the U.S. in 2024 — but only 4 injuries were reported.³

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Common Causes of Train Derailments

Train derailments capture public attention because they often involve long trains, heavy cargo, and the risk of hazardous material spills. While most derailments do not lead to injuries, they can still cause widespread property damage, delays, and community disruption.

Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Track Defects — Broken rails, worn-out ties, or alignment issues can cause trains to leave the tracks.

• Equipment Failures — Faulty brakes, wheels, or couplers can cause instability, particularly in long freight trains.

• Human Error — Mistakes in handling, dispatching, or signaling may contribute to derailments.

• Weather Conditions — Flooding, extreme heat, or heavy rains can weaken tracks and cause warping.

• Track Obstructions — Vehicles, debris, or fallen trees may block tracks, leading to derailments.

Why Communities Should Pay Attention

Even when there are no injuries, derailments can have ripple effects. A single accident can:

• Disrupt local communities — Shelter-in-place orders and blocked roads can delay traffic and business operations.

• Threaten the environment — Spills of chemicals, fuel, or gases could contaminate soil, water, or air if not contained.

• Affect the supply chain — Freight trains carry essential goods, and derailments can delay shipments across Texas and beyond.

For local residents, this means staying alert to official advisories and evacuation orders following an incident. For businesses, it may mean temporary disruptions until tracks are cleared and reopened.

Rail Safety Tips for Texans

While derailments are rare compared to the sheer number of trains that operate daily, Texans who live near tracks or regularly cross railways should take precautions to stay safe.

At Rail Crossings

• Never ignore signals — Stop when gates are down or lights are flashing. Trains are often moving faster than they appear.

• Look both ways — Freight trains can travel in either direction and may approach unexpectedly.

• Avoid stopping on tracks — Always ensure there’s room to clear the tracks before crossing, especially in heavy traffic.

Living Near Train Tracks

• Be aware of evacuation routes — Know how to exit your neighborhood if a derailment leads to shelter-in-place or evacuation orders.

• Stay alert to official notices — Follow updates from city officials, fire departments, or local news in the event of an accident.

• Report concerns — If you notice damaged tracks, missing warning signs, or debris near railways, report it to local authorities.

For Parents and Families

• Teach children rail safety — Make sure kids know not to play on or near tracks. Trains are quieter than many expect and can approach quickly.

• Reinforce the “stay back” rule — Standing too close to tracks is dangerous; fast-moving trains create powerful winds that can pull people toward them.

These small safety measures can make a big difference in reducing risk for families who live near Texas railways.

Legal Considerations

When derailments cause injuries or property damage, multiple parties may share responsibility. These could include:

• Railroad Companies — Responsible for maintaining safe tracks and equipment.

• Manufacturers — If faulty brakes, wheels, or couplers contributed to the accident.

• Government Agencies — Charged with enforcing inspection standards and safety regulations.

For victims, determining liability can be complicated. An attorney may be needed to investigate the circumstances, gather evidence, and pursue compensation.

Injured in a Train Accident in Texas? Call Shaw.

Even though the recent Fort Worth and Gordon derailments ended without injuries, they highlight how serious train accidents can be — and how quickly they can escalate.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for things like:

• Ambulance Costs

• ER Treatment

• Surgeries

• Medical Bills

• Missed Work

• Pain and Suffering

• Wrongful Death

• And More

We’ll help you find out if you have a case — for free.

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Texas personal injury lawyer. No fees, no obligations, just the expert legal advice you need.

Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for more than 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.

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News4SanAntonio report

²NBC 5 report

³AAR Data