Train Accidents
Train accidents have taken the lives of many, whether by a train derailing or at a railroad crossing. In 2015, there were 11,762 train accidents in the United States. These accidents caused approximately 9,013 injuries and 752 fatalities. The Federal Railroad Administration indicated that 96 percent of injuries and deaths are related to train accidents that occur at railroad crossings and by trespassing. Furthermore, railroad crossing accidents are the second leading cause of rail-related fatalities in the United States.
If you have been injured while on a train or subway and the transit line is deemed to have been liable, then that entity would pay damages to the victims in the incident. Additionally, there are specific procedures that a victim may need to follow in order to recover damages from certain transit lines, which is why it is important to hire an experienced railroad accident attorney. Damages that a victim can recover include compensation for the injuries sustained during that accident, which may include, medical and rehabilitation bills, lost wages if the victim is unable to return to work, certain out-of-pocket expenses, as well as pain and suffering.
When it comes to determining how much a train accident victim may recover, personal injury attorneys will review the facts of the case to determine who is ultimately liable for the incident and the severity of the victim's injuries. Workers, passengers, and motorists can be victims of railroad accidents and may be able to recover damages if the incident was caused by another party's negligence. Although most railroad crossing accidents that involve trespassing are usually avoidable, a train accident victim may be able to recover damages if another party's negligent actions contributed to the incident.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a train crash or at a railroad crossing it is important to keep all documentation, such as incident reports, medical records, and hospital records. Even if you are not allowed to leave the hospital, it is in a party’s best interest to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss the legal rights and remedies and ensure that you or your loved one are protected. Levine & Slavit, PLLC represents clients in pursuing claims arising out of another’s negligence and will fight for your right to receive compensation. Contact our New York train accident law firm at (888) LAW-8088 for a consultation today.