Railroad Accident Attorney
Orlando, Florida
FAQ
What are the differences between a train accident and other types of accidents?
Trains are extremely heavy and when moving at speed, trains are extremely difficult to slow down. Stopping a fast train takes several minutes and several hundred or even several thousand feet. Trains also cannot maneuver to avoid an accident. If you are in the way, the train will simply plow right through you. In the event of a train accident, passengers are basically unrestrained luggage who can fly about the cabin during a collision or derailment. Slamming into objects like seats and other people can cause serious personal injury such as brain injury, spinal cord injury, even death.
What causes train accidents?
Train accidents are broken down into two basic categories based on actual damage to railroad property.
- Accident
- Incident
Accidents include collisions with other trains, stationary objects, or derailments. Some of the causes may include:
- Faulty or poorly maintained trains, tracks, or crossing equipment
- Inadequate engineer training
- Crew members over worked
- Catastrophic death of crew member
- Car on tracks at a railroad crossing
Incidents include slip and fall accidents of passengers, employee work related illness, and pedestrian accidents. The most common fatal incident usually involves trespassers.
What should I do if I am involved in a train accident?
The first order of business is to seek medical help as soon as possible to ensure that you do not have any hidden injuries. This will also help you establish what sort of injuries you received because of the accident. Once things settle down, you should contact an experience railroad accident attorney to help you establish your case.
Write down any pertinent information including contact information of potential witnesses. Many train accidents have many victims, which can pool information and may even file a class action lawsuit against the railroad involved.
What is FELA?
Railroad employees are covered under a special type of workers compensation under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). This act allows injured or ill railroad employees to collect damages in personal injury claims. An experienced railroad accident attorney should be retained to help you wade through the complexities of the statute.
Why do so many accidents occur at crossings?
Railroad crossings are where train traffic and other vehicle traffic intersect. Trains striking other trains are rare because the tracks on which they travel are usually well regulated and monitored. The field of view at railroad crossings, especially in Florida and other heavily wooded areas is limited and vehicles must rely on the crossing lights and barriers. If those malfunction, then it may be difficult to determine if a train is approaching the intersection.
If you or a family member has been injured from a railroad accident in Florida, please contact the railroad accident lawyers at Colling Gilbert Wright & Carter. Our experienced railroad accident lawyers know how to handle any type of railroad accident claim, and we will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
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