Train accidents occur when a train collides with another train, a motor vehicle or an object or when a train derails or catches fire. Injuries and fatalities are often reported. If a party has been injured or killed then the amount of time that a victim may have to file a lawsuit may be short, particularly if a government owned railroad is at fault. Potential plaintiffs may be able to recover economic damages for things such as lost wage and medical expenses and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Train accidents are one type of railroad accident and may also be known as train crashes.