On this page
- Common Causes in Railroad and Train Accidents Cases
- Injuries Often Involved
- Railroad Worker Claims and Public Operators
- Evidence That Can Prove Your Claim
- Who May Be Responsible
- What to Do Next
- Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
- Why Acting Early Matters
- How Our Attorneys Can Help
- Attorneys Who Handle These Cases
- Frequently Asked Questions
Railroad wrongful death claims help families after fatal train and crossing accidents.
Railroad Wrongful Death cases are part of our Railroad and Train Accidents practice. We represent people hurt in passenger train, commuter rail, subway and light rail accidents, as well as crossing collisions and platform injuries, and we evaluate railroad worker claims under specialized federal law.
Common Causes in Railroad and Train Accidents Cases
- Malfunctioning crossing gates and signals
- Track and equipment defects
- Operator fatigue or error
- Excessive speed
- Platform gaps and crowding
- Inadequate maintenance and inspection
Injuries Often Involved
- Crush and amputation injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures from falls
- Fatal injuries
Railroad Worker Claims and Public Operators
Injured railroad employees generally pursue claims under a federal law that requires proof of employer negligence rather than ordinary state workers' compensation. Claims involving public transit operators may be subject to government notice rules. We identify the right legal framework early.
Evidence That Can Prove Your Claim
Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:
- Train event recorder and signal data
- Crossing warning-device records
- Track inspection and maintenance logs
- Crew records and incident reports
Who May Be Responsible
More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:
- Railroad companies
- Commuter rail and transit authorities
- Maintenance contractors
- Equipment manufacturers
What to Do Next
- Call 911 and get medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Report the crash to police and get the report number
- Photograph the vehicles, scene, road conditions and your injuries
- Exchange insurance information and collect witness contact details
- Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver's insurer
- Speak with an attorney before signing anything
Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering and emotional distress
- Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
- Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses
Why Acting Early Matters
Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.
How Our Attorneys Can Help
We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.
Attorneys Who Handle These Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a case involving Railroad Wrongful Death?
If someone else's negligence caused or contributed to your injury, you may have a claim. The answer depends on how the incident happened, the evidence available, your injuries and the law in your state. A free consultation can help you understand your options.
What is a Railroad Wrongful Death case worth?
Every case is different. Value depends on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost income, long-term effects, the strength of the evidence and the insurance available. We cannot predict an outcome, but we document every element of your losses.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you, and the consultation is free and confidential.
Who is responsible for a railroad crossing accident?
Responsibility may rest with the railroad, a signal maintenance contractor, a government entity or another driver, depending on the facts.
Are railroad worker injuries covered by workers' compensation?
Railroad workers are generally covered by a federal law that requires showing employer negligence. It is a specialty area with its own rules.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Laws differ from state to state, and every case depends on its own facts. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.