Train Accidents

Train accidents can include derailments, train-passenger vehicle collisions, collisions with other trains, any accident resulting from a mechanical failure, or any occupational illness or injury to a railroad employee. If you or someone you love has suffered serious personal injury or death as a result of a train accident, it is wise to seek the early advice of a qualified personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case and determine whether you may be eligible to file a claim to recover your losses.

Although the railway service industry is decreasing, train accidents still frequently occur. In 1999 alone, more than 900 people were killed in train accidents and many more suffered serious personal injuries. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) sets strict railroad safety guidelines and holds the railroad industry liable for passenger safety. In addition, the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) protects railroad employees who have suffered occupational injury or illnesses as a result of hazardous chemical exposure in the workplace.

There are many causes of train accidents for which the railroad industry may be held responsible, including but not limited to:

• Derailments
• Collisions
• Mechanical Failures
• Toxic Chemical Exposures
• Occupational Illnesses
• Occupational Injuries

If you or a loved one was injured in a train accident, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the railroad company to recover lost damages including pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical bills, lost income capacity, and more. In most train accident cases, the FRA will conduct an investigation to determine whether or not the railroad company failed to provide the highest standard of safety in accordance with their safety guidelines. If you can prove negligence, the railroad company will be held liable for your losses.

If you or someone you know is a former or current railroad employee and suffered a serious occupational illness, injury or death as a result of negligence or wrongdoing on behalf of your employer, you have the legal right to file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your losses. FELA was enacted in 1908 to provide monetary protection for railroad employees in lieu of workers compensation.  If a worker can prove his/her employer failed to provide a safe working environment, which directly resulted in an injury or illness, he/she can receive economic recovery for the damages suffered.

It is important to know that all personal injury lawsuits are subject to a statue of limitations, which limits the amount of time a victim may have to file a lawsuit. If you wish to file a personal injury lawsuit or a FELA claim, we recommend you contact a qualified personal injury attorney who can protect your legal rights and maximize your interests.