Litigation/Arbitration Support
R.L. Banks & Associates, Inc. (RLBA) is considered one of the most trusted and experienced names in the rail consulting industry, providing expert economic, engineering and service planning litigation support in the freight, commuter and intercity passenger rail sectors. RLBA provides comprehensive Litigation Support Services specialized to the unique needs of each project. The primary categories of Litigation Support Services offered by RLBA are described below:
Verified Statements & Expert Witness Testimony
Rail-related disputes often involve one or more parties from sectors other than the railroad industry that are often at a disadvantage due to lack rail industry insight. Based on an exhaustive knowledge of the industry and substantial experience, RLBA provides verified statements and expert witness testimony in a manner combining qualified expertise with clear and persuasive language.
Surface Transportation Board
The Surface Transportation Board (STB) is the regulatory body governing U.S. railroads, with oversight and judgement authority over rail-related disputes. With experience assisting clients on all sides of STB cases and hearings, RLBA is considered an authority within the rail regulatory field. RLBA provides comprehensive assistance on rail valuations, corridor negotiations, real estate issues, service agreements, grade crossing agreements, and any other rail-related regulatory matter.
STB Rate Cases
The Surface Transportation Board (STB) is the regulatory body governing U.S. railroads, with oversight and judgement authority over rail-related disputes. With experience assisting clients on all sides of STB cases and hearings, RLBA is considered an authority within the rail regulatory field. RLBA provides comprehensive assistance on rail valuations, corridor negotiations, real estate, service and grade crossing issues and other rail-related regulatory matters.
Railroad Operations Simulation
Rail Traffic Controller (RTC) is a state-of-the-art rail modeling software designed to provide detailed simulations of the operations and capital requirements of a given rail network. Using this cutting-edge technology, RLBA is capable of providing superior data-driven analysis to support any rail-related dispute or planning project. RLBA features extensive experience using RTC in the completion of projects involving infrastructure and maintenance cost estimation, freight rate disputes, capital investment forecasting and service planning.
Accident Investigation
Despite continuous efforts to improve rail safety, train derailments and other rail-related accidents occasionally do occur, often due to unforeseen mechanical, operational or engineering failures. With personnel experienced and knowledgeable in the fields of infrastructure and equipment engineering as well as train operations, RLBA performs accident investigations with the expertise and timeliness necessary for a thorough analysis. Services include on-site inspections, track and equipment assessments and complete knowledge of relevant regulations and industry standards.