If you’ve been involved in a railroad accident, whether as a railroad worker, passenger, or pedestrian, securing experienced legal representation is crucial. Railroad accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities, and pursuing compensation can be a complex legal process, especially when dealing with state and federal regulations, such as the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).
Here’s an overview of how legal representation can help in railroad accident cases and some top law firms specializing in these types of accidents.
How Railroad Accident Lawyers Can Help
1. Investigating the Accident
Determining Liability: Railroad accidents often involve multiple parties, including the railroad company, equipment manufacturers, and government agencies responsible for infrastructure. A railroad accident lawyer will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and identify who is liable.
Expert Witnesses: In complex cases, experts such as engineers, safety consultants, or medical professionals may be needed to testify about the cause of the accident and the severity of injuries.
2. Filing Claims Under FELA
FELA Claims for Railroad Workers: If you are a railroad worker and were injured while on the job, you may be able to file a claim under FELA. Unlike standard workers’ compensation, FELA allows workers to sue their employers for negligence, meaning you can potentially recover more compensation, including damages for pain and suffering.
What FELA Covers: FELA allows workers to claim compensation for injuries resulting from negligence, including accidents caused by poor equipment maintenance, unsafe working conditions, or lack of proper training.
3. Handling Passenger or Pedestrian Injury Claims
If you were a passenger on a train or injured as a pedestrian at a railroad crossing, a lawyer can help you file personal injury claims. This could involve negligence on the part of the railroad company for failure to provide adequate warning signals, maintaining safe crossings, or ensuring the safety of passengers.
4. Pursuing Compensation for Injuries or Death
Medical Expenses: Your lawyer will help ensure that you receive compensation for all medical expenses incurred due to the railroad accident.
Lost Wages: If your injuries result in missed work, your lawyer will pursue compensation for lost wages and future earning potential.
Pain and Suffering: In addition to economic damages, your lawyer can pursue compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
Wrongful Death: If the accident results in death, a wrongful death claim may be pursued to provide financial support to surviving family members.
5. Negotiating Settlements
Railroad companies and insurance providers may try to settle claims quickly with low offers. A skilled attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
6. Litigation
If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will take your case to trial, advocating for your rights and seeking the compensation you deserve.
Top Law Firms for Railroad Accident Legal Representation
1. Romanucci & Blandin, LLC
Location: Chicago, IL
Overview: Known for handling complex railroad accident cases, Romanucci & Blandin specializes in FELA claims and personal injury lawsuits related to railroad accidents. They have a strong track record of securing favorable verdicts and settlements for railroad workers and passengers.
Specialty: FELA claims, train collisions, derailments, passenger injuries
Website: rblaw.net
2. Schlichter Bogard LLC
Location: St. Louis, MO
Overview: Schlichter Bogard has been representing railroad workers for over 30 years, securing large verdicts and settlements in FELA claims. They specialize in cases involving catastrophic injuries, hazardous material exposure, and wrongful death.
Specialty: FELA claims, railroad crossing accidents, wrongful death
Website: uselaws.com
3. Brain Injury Law Center
Location: Nationwide
Overview: Specializing in brain and spinal cord injuries, the Brain Injury Law Center focuses on representing victims of serious railroad accidents. They pursue compensation for catastrophic injuries and work to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Specialty: Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, railroad accident injuries
Website: brain-injury-law-center.com
4. Martin & Jones, PLLC
Location: Raleigh, NC
Overview: Martin & Jones represents injured railroad workers and passengers in FELA and personal injury cases. They have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients involved in train accidents and have experience handling complex railroad litigation.
Specialty: Train crash injuries, FELA claims, wrongful death
Website: martinandjones.com
5. Hoey & Farina, P.C.
Location: Nationwide
Overview: Hoey & Farina has over 50 years of experience in handling FELA claims and railroad accident cases. They represent railroad workers and passengers who have been injured due to negligence, defective equipment, or unsafe working conditions.
Specialty: FELA claims, train derailments, passenger injury claims
Website: hoeyfarina.com
6. Wettermark Keith Personal Injury Lawyers
Location: Chattanooga, TN
Overview: Wettermark Keith is a well-regarded personal injury law firm specializing in railroad accidents. They have secured millions in settlements and are experienced in representing victims of catastrophic injuries and fatal railroad accidents.
Specialty: Train accidents, catastrophic injury claims, wrongful death
Website: wkfirm.com
What to Do After a Railroad Accident
Seek Medical Attention: Always prioritize your health and get medical care, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, might not be immediately obvious.
Document the Scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Gather contact information for witnesses and take note of any visible damages or hazards.
Report the Incident: If you’re a railroad worker, report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. If you’re a passenger or pedestrian, contact the appropriate authorities.
Consult with a Lawyer: Contact an experienced railroad accident lawyer to help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries or loss.
Follow Legal Advice: Your lawyer will guide you through the claims process, whether it involves FELA, personal injury, or wrongful death lawsuits.
Conclusion
Railroad accidents can have life-changing consequences, and legal representation is critical in pursuing justice and fair compensation. Whether you’re filing a claim under FELA, seeking compensation for personal injury, or pursuing wrongful death claims, the law firms listed above offer the expertise and experience needed to help you navigate the complexities of railroad accident litigation.