Despite the fact that many railroad injuries are reported by workers annually, very few are due to accidents involving the train itself. This is because trains are among the safest modes of transportation, according to studies. However, just because trains are unlikely to be involved in collisions doesn’t mean they never occur. As such, familiarizing yourself with the different types of train accidents and their causes is critical. If you’re a railroad worker and you were injured in a collision while aboard or near a train, the following blog and a FELA lawyer can help you explore your legal options.
What Types of Train Accidents Are Common?
Generally, derailments are among the most common types of accidents that workers can be involved in. In fact, this accounts for just under three-quarters of all train accidents. This occurs when a train loses contact with the track and often results in cars overturning. This can be caused by broken or unmaintained tracks, mechanical errors with equipment, or human error from the engineer.
Another kind of accident involves accidents with other trains. While these are not as common, they can occur and are often devastating. Both head-on and rear-end collisions can cause significant damage to the trains and severe injuries to those working aboard or near the collision. Trains colliding are often the result of human error. For example, these almost always occur on single-line railways, meaning a train passed a light prohibiting them from continuing down the track, called a “signal passed at danger,” or the signalman made an egregious error.
If I’m a Railworker Injured in a Train Accident, Can I File a FELA Claim?
Many workers believe they are only entitled to compensation under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) for accidents that occur at job sites, which is far from the truth. If you are actively working while your train is involved in any of the aforementioned accidents and the collision is due in part to negligence on behalf of your employer, you can file a claim under FELA.
For example, if your employer is responsible for training the signalman but failed to do so properly, resulting in a head-on collision with another train, you would be able to file a claim under FELA. Additionally, if the railroad company fails to respond to notices regarding worn, broken, or otherwise dangerous tracks, resulting in a derailment, it can face liability.
Being involved in a railroad accident can be devastating, as it can cause severe and life-changing injuries, as well as psychological damage. If you were hurt and are ready to pursue a FELA claim against your negligent employer, the team at Doran & Murphy can help. We understand how complicated these matters can be, which is why our firm will do everything possible to investigate the circumstances of your case to fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today for more.
