Legal action likely over train derailment in regional Victoria

A transport accident law expert says legal action could be likely after a train derailed and injured 19 people in regional Victoria.

Recovery work on the V/Line locomotive and carriages is continuing after the Warrnambool-bound train collided with a truck on Wednesday, injuring 19 people.

Upgrades to the level crossing, at Phalps Road in the town of Pirron Yallock, were meant to be fast-tracked 17 months ago, but construction works were delayed as there was an issue getting power to the site.

"The question needs to be asked - should works have happened sooner?" Shine Lawyers transport accident law expert Cameron Cowan told AAP.

"In light of the nature of this terrible accident, it is likely that legal action will result."

Two cranes will have to be brought in to move the carriages away from the tracks, while a temporary track will be built to help move the derailed carriages.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau estimates an investigation into the crash will be completed within 12 months.