Railroad work is inherently dangerous, and some of the most serious injuries occur during kick and shove movements in rail yards. These operations—often performed under time pressure and with limited visibility—can lead to catastrophic injuries. When safety rules are ignored or shortcuts are taken, the consequences can be life-altering.
Under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), injured railroad employees have the right to seek compensation when negligence plays a role. Understanding how kick and shove accidents happen is critical to protecting those rights.
What Are Kick and Shove Movements?
Kick and shove movements are common switching operations used to position railcars in yards:
- Kick moves involve uncoupling a railcar from a moving locomotive and allowing it to roll freely into a track.
- Shove moves occur when a locomotive pushes railcars into position, often with a crew member riding the car or directing movement from the ground.
While these practices can increase efficiency, they also carry significant risks, especially when proper safety protocols are not followed.
Common Railroad Injuries During Kick and Shove Operations
Railroad injuries during these movements are often severe due to the weight and momentum of railcars. Common injuries include:
- Crushed or amputated limbs
- Back, neck, and spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and internal injuries
- Fatal injuries in extreme cases
Many of these injuries occur suddenly and leave workers unable to return to their previous jobs, or to work at all.
Why Kick and Shove Accidents Happen
Kick and shove injuries are rarely “just accidents.” They are often the result of railroad negligence, including:
- Failure to provide proper job briefings
- Inadequate communication between crew members
- Poor lighting or obstructed visibility in rail yards
- Defective or poorly maintained equipment
- Pressure to work faster or understaffed crews
- Failure to enforce or follow safety rules
Under FELA, railroads are obligated to provide a reasonably safe place to work. When they fail to do so, they can be held accountable.
FELA and Railroad Worker Rights
Unlike standard workers’ compensation, FELA allows injured railroad workers to sue their employer directly. To recover damages, the worker must show that the railroad’s negligence, no matter how slight, played a role in causing the injury.
Compensation under FELA may include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
Importantly, railroads often attempt to shift blame onto injured workers after kick and shove incidents. A knowledgeable FELA attorney understands railroad operations, safety rules, and the tactics railroads use to minimize claims. If you or a loved one has been injured while working for the railroad, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Speaking with a FELA attorney can help you understand your rights and take the next step toward recovery.
