Indiana § 8-4-31-1 - Insurance; actions against railroads
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 8-4-31-1 — Insurance; actions against railroads, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-4-31-1. Insurance; actions against railroads
Sec. 1. Each railroad corporation owning or operating a railroad in this state shall be responsible in damage to every person or corporations whose property may be injured or destroyed by fire communicated directly or indirectly by locomotive engines in use upon the railroad owned or operated by such railroad corporations, and each such railroad corporation shall have an insurable interest in the property upon the route of the railroad owned or operated by it, and may procure insurance thereon in its own behalf for its protection against such damages; Provided, In all actions instituted under this chapter, the burden of proving the defense of contributory negligence shall be upon the defendant; Such defense may be provided without special plea; Provided, That this chapter shall not be construed to prevent or affect in any wise fire clauses which may be inserted in contracts between railroad companies and other parties relative to the construction of and operation over private sidetracks; Provided further, That the liability imposed herein shall also include reimbursement to volunteer fire departments for fighting fires caused by any railroad corporation.
Formerly: Acts 1911, c.107, s.1; Acts 1972, P.L.62, SEC.1.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 8-4-31-1
What does Indiana Code § 8-4-31-1 cover?
Section 8-4-31-1 ("Insurance; actions against railroads") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 8-4-31-1?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 8-4-31-1" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 8-4-31-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.