About

Railroad Knowledge and Expertise

History

Railroad Expert Witnesses (REW), founded by Daniel O'Connell, specializes in providing expert witness services to attorneys representing plaintiffs or defendants in railroad-related litigation. With a career spanning since 1978 in various roles across freight, passenger, and commuter trains, Daniel O'Connell brings extensive knowledge and experience to the table for a comprehensive evaluation of incidents. His expertise covers a wide range of areas, including railroad crossing incidents, employee and passenger fatalities or injuries. In recent years, Daniel O'Connell has taken on significant roles in expert witness cases, handling multiple active cases, conducting investigations, and producing reports in preparation for trial testimony.

In addition to Railroad Expert Witnesses (REW), REW also encompasses Double Track Consulting (DTC), which emerged during the Covid-19 pandemic. Initially focused on delivering training to Conductors and Engineers across several railroads, DTC has since evolved into a consulting entity catering to upcoming rail projects in the United States.

DTC's growth can be attributed to its ability to adapt and meet the changing needs of the industry. It expanded beyond training services, leveraging its expertise to offer valuable insights and guidance for various rail-related projects. For instance, DTC has provided tailored training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of Conductors and Engineers. Moreover, it has collaborated with clients on consulting assignments, contributing valuable insights to upcoming rail projects.

The close association between REW and DTC allows for a comprehensive approach, combining expert witness services with consulting expertise. This integration strengthens the ability to provide well-rounded support and guidance in the railroad industry.

 

Get in touch

At Railroad Expert Witnesses know that finding the right expert witness to represent you is a choice not to be taken lightly. That is why free consultations are offered to you to walk you through your needs, the scope of your goals, and your budget.

Book an appointment ▸

 
 

Expert Witness and Subject Matter Expert

 
 

Daniel O’Connell

Daniel O'Connell, our lead expert witness and subject matter specialist, retired from the railroad industry after accumulating over 40 years of experience. Throughout his career, he held various positions at Amtrak and the Santa Fe Railway, where he testified and provided depositions in numerous cases. His extensive expertise spans a wide range of roles, from starting as a Brakeman in 1978 to retiring as a Railroad Superintendent in 2020 for the United States National Passenger Railroad. Along the way, he served as a Conductor, Engineer, Engineer Instructor, Designated Supervisor of Locomotive Engineers, Transportation Manager, Road Foreman of Engines, System Road Foreman of Engines, Assistant Superintendent, Director, and Superintendent at Amtrak. Furthermore, Daniel managed operations in 22 states, including direct collaborations with state-run passenger and commuter services in 6 states.

 

Certifications

Santa Fe Railway
1983 Conductor

1989 Locomotive Engineer

Amtrak
1992 Certified Engineer Instructor

2011 Designated Supervisor of Locomotive Engineers

Affiliations

• SEAK Witness Directory
• Expert Institute
• Gerson Lehrman Group - GLG