As an employee of a railroad company, you understand that your job is dangerous and take steps and precautions to mitigate the potential risks. Unfortunately, your employer may not offer you the same courtesy, which can lead to you sustaining injuries because of their negligence. Unfortunately, while at work, you may be involved in a train derailment. These accidents do happen and can cause extensive damage, so it’s imperative to understand what to do if you are injured and the steps involved in recovering compensation with the help of a train accident lawyer. Keep reading to learn more about these matters.
How Does a Derailment Happen?
A derailment happens whenever something on the rails, like trains or heavy machinery, leaves the rails. Due to the nature of railways, several factors can lead to the derailment of a train. For example, if there is a mechanical issue, like issues with the wheels or bearings, it can cause the train to derail.
Additionally, if there are problems with the tracks, it can lead to a derailment. If the train hits a broken or damaged part of the track, it can cause the train to leave the rails. If rail welds are not properly handled or the tracks aren’t regularly inspected, injuries can occur because of negligence.
You’ll find that human error is also a primary component of derailments. If the train is going too fast, the brakes are not applied accurately, switches are misaligned, or there is simply a lack of communication between workers, a derailment can occur.
What Should I Do if This Happens at Work?
If a derailment occurs at work, understanding what to do is critical to protecting your health. The first thing you should do is seek immediate medical treatment, even if you feel okay. Unfortunately, many injuries may not immediately present themselves due to adrenaline, so it’s best to allow emergency medical technicians to evaluate you on the scene.
Next, you’ll want to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. To recover compensation through the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), you’ll need to show that your employer was at least partially negligent for the collision. For example, if they knew there were issues with the rails or they did not train the engineers or other employees properly, a collision can result, and your employer can face liability.
It’s important to report the fact that you are injured to your supervisor so you can file a report. You should complete this report under the guidance of an attorney so as not to make errors that could invalidate your right to compensation. Finally, if you are approached by a member of the claims department, you should not provide a statement without first consulting your attorney.
If you’ve suffered injuries due to a train derailment, understanding your legal options is critical. Unfortunately, many are unaware of their rights during these times, which can lead to unfavorable outcomes. At Doran & Murphy, we understand how complicated these matters can be, which is why it’s in your best interest to connect with our experienced team. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured workers. Connect with us today to discuss your circumstances.
