Trains carrying long-distance passengers, commuters, and freight all pass through DeLand. Substantial activity on the rails in a densely populated area can lead to serious accidents.
The attorneys at The Florida Firm have earned an excellent reputation for obtaining favorable results in complex injury cases. Other area professionals rely on us when they need representation after an accident, and many of our cases are referred to us from other law firms. If an incident involving a train caused your injuries, contact an experienced DeLand railroad accident lawyer at Colling Gilbert Wright.
Negligence Causes Train Mishaps
Railroad operations are complex, involving a mix of machinery and infrastructure that could be outdated or deteriorated. There are numerous opportunities for accidents to happen.
Computer glitches or power failures could disrupt track switching operations, and collisions may result. Old or poorly maintained tracks could lead to derailments. Other scenarios with the potential to cause serious injuries include:
- Failure of railroad crossing barriers, leading to collisions between trains and passenger vehicles
- Cargo spills that release toxins into the environment
- Onboard fires and explosions
- Derailments due to excessive speed or defective braking
- Trestle bridge failure
- Railroad tunnel collapse
People can also be injured when embarking or disembarking the train or be hurt by falling objects on platforms or in railroad stations.
As common carriers under federal law, a railroad must use the utmost care to avoid situations that could cause harm to others. If it fails to do so, the railroad is negligent and liable for any losses you suffer as a result. Our attorneys in DeLand could work with train accident reconstruction experts to collect evidence of negligence.
Identifying Responsible Parties
One of the issues that makes railroad accident cases so challenging is determining who is responsible for the incident. In many cases, several parties share responsibility.
Railroad Workers
Human error on the part of railroad employees causes many train accidents. If the worker was acting within the scope of their responsibility, the railroad is liable for the worker’s actions. When our DeLand attorneys can show that a railway worker was negligent and caused a crash that endangered people, the railroad must compensate you for your losses.
Product Manufacturers
Manufacturers often bear responsibility for injuries sustained in train accidents. The maker of any device or piece of equipment that failed is potentially liable for the crash and may have to pay you compensation.
Shippers and Loaders
Improperly loaded cargo can cause train accidents. The loading company could be liable when a shifting load causes a crash.
Some cargo is hazardous when released into the environment and can injure you if it contacts your skin or you breathe in vapors. Flammable or combustible cargo can cause fires and explosions that lead to serious injuries. The shippers or owners of the cargo might be liable when a load leads to an accident or causes injuries.
Government Agencies
If a faulty or worn track contributed to the incident, the owner of the track—which might be the railroad or a government agency—could be liable. When an infrastructure failure caused the accident, some of the blame might fall on the state or the locality responsible for maintaining it.
Florida Statute § 768.28(6) limits the state’s liability for its negligence. The state’s liability for accidents that occurred on or before September 30, 2025, is $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident. For incidents occurring between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2030, the limits are $1 million per person and $3 million per incident.
What Compensation Is Available for Train Accident Injuries?
In the case of a serious injury, your damages could be substantial. Our lawyers in DeLand have achieved many seven- and eight-figure settlements and verdicts for people who have suffered severe injuries in railway accidents.
You are entitled to recoup the money you spent on medical treatment and other incidental costs related to your injuries. The responsible parties must reimburse your lost income and pay compensation if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or result in diminished future earning capacity.
You may claim damages for your pain and suffering as well. The amount of pain and suffering damages depends on variables such as your age, the extent of your disability, the changes your injuries made in your lifestyle, and similar factors.
Consult a DeLand Attorney After a Train Crash
If a train accident caused your injury, you need help from a legal professional who has experience dealing with complex cases. A DeLand railroad accident lawyer from The Florida Firm has the skills and resources to obtain a favorable outcome. We do not collect expenses or fees until we reach a settlement or verdict in your favor, so contact us today to discuss your case.