After a railroad injury, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, the steps you take early on can have a lasting impact on your ability to recover compensation.
Many injured railroad workers make avoidable mistakes—often without realizing the consequences until it’s too late.
At Doran & Murphy, we focus on helping railroad workers protect their rights after an on-the-job injury.
The Five Most Common Mistakes Injured Railroad Workers Make
Mistake #1: Giving Detailed Statements Too Soon
Railroad representatives may ask for recorded or written statements shortly after an incident.
What many workers don’t realize:
- These statements can be used to challenge your claim
- You may not yet know the full extent of your injuries
- Small inconsistencies can be used against you later
Mistake #2: Delaying Medical Treatment
Waiting to seek medical care can:
- Make injuries worse
- Create gaps in documentation
- Raise questions about the seriousness of your condition
Mistake #3: Assuming It’s “Just Workers’ Comp”
Railroad claims are handled under FELA—not traditional workers’ compensation.
This means:
- You must prove negligence
- The railroad will defend the case
- The outcome depends heavily on evidence
Mistake #4: Accepting a Quick Settlement
Early settlement offers may seem helpful—but they are often far less than what a claim may actually be worth.
Once accepted, you typically cannot go back and ask for more.
Mistake #5: Waiting Too Long to Get Information
You don’t have to commit to a claim right away—but waiting too long to understand your rights can limit your options. Check out our blog on how to determine if you need a lawyer to help you.
Protecting Yourself Starts with Information
If you’ve been injured while working for the railroad, understanding these common mistakes can help you avoid them and make more informed decisions.
Speaking with an attorney who focuses on railroad injury cases can help you take the right steps from the beginning. An initial consultation is confidential, provided at no cost and does not commit you to bringing a claim.
