Railroad Lifting Injury Lawyer in Chicago

Fighting for Maximum Compensation for Illinois Railroad Workers Hurt in Lifting Accidents

Whether you suffered a serious injury at Union Station or at a West Chicago rail yard, a Chicago railroad lifting injury lawyer from our firm will fight for maximum compensation through a FELA claim. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case. 

FELA Lifting Injury Settlements Recovered by Our Chicago-Based Law Firm

$1,900,000: Trenton, a railroad worker servicing Ogilvie Center Metra trains, suffered back injuries due to lifting heavy loads. We recovered compensation based on the railroad company’s failure to offer him proper safety equipment.

$945,670: Susan developed a shoulder injury from overuse at the LaSalle Street Station. Our experienced attorneys proved that the company doctor did not provide adequate medical treatment, resulting in diminished earning capacity. 

Why Choose IL Work Injury Lawyer

We are the best law firm for FELA claims, with a 98% success rate and over $450 million recovered for our clients. With our help, railroad workers can secure compensation that covers all their future needs. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Rail Yard Lifting Injuries in Illinois?

The Federal Railroad Administration highlights common causes of lifting-related accidents, which include:

• Improper lifting techniques
• Lack of lifting aids like cranes, hoists, and forklifts
• Repetitive lifting during long shifts
• Lifting in awkward positions and confined spaces
• Unsafe work practices, like a lack of safety supervisors
• Lack of weather awareness

What Are the Most Common Railroad Lifting Injuries?

• Herniated discs
• Torn rotator cuffs
• Muscle strain
• Nerve damage
• Chronic back pain
• Spinal cord injuries

What Damages Can Injured Railroad Workers Recover in Illinois?

• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of normal life

FELA does not have compensation caps, meaning you may be entitled to fair compensation for your lost wages and other expenses. 

What Is the Average FELA Claim Settlement?

The average FELA payout is $749,742, with a range between $20,000 and $3,307,319. Your payout depends on factors like injury severity, medical care, recovery time, and permanent disability.

Example FELA Lifting Injury Cases

Charles Banks suffered herniated discs after being asked to lift a 50-pound crosstie, resulting in permanent disability. He was awarded $616,000.00. 

Matteo Augello suffered two hernias while lifting welding equipment onto a truck, receiving $400,000.00 in compensation after a settlement.

Why You Need an Illinois FELA Attorney

FELA is the primary form of compensation for rail workers. Unlike workers’ compensation, it requires proving negligence, meaning you need a law firm willing to fight for you. We will thoroughly investigate your injuries and present our evidence before the Circuit Court of Cook County or the US District Court of Northern Illinois, depending on which jurisdiction applies. 

How Common Are Lifting Injuries in Railroad Workers?

475 injuries were reported in Illinois among rail workers in 2024. In the greater transportation industry, overuse and overexertion injuries have a rate of 26.2 injuries per 10,000 full-time employees, making them one of the most common types of injuries.

Where Do Rail Lifting Injuries Occur Most Often in Illinois?

• Union Pacific Proviso Yard
• BNSF Cicero Yard
• Metra 14th Street Yard
• Chicago Union Station 
• Maintenance job sites, such as in Pullman

What Laws Govern Railroad Lifting Injuries in Illinois?

If you are injured at work, you can make a FELA claim (45 U.S.C. §§ 51–60). This is a negligence-based system, meaning you must prove the employer broke regulations, such as OSHA railroad lifting standards. Non-employees hurt at a train station can hold property owners accountable under the Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/), which is also negligence-based.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lifting FELA Claim in Illinois?

You have three years to file under FELA (45 U.S.C. § 56), though you may file later if the injury was not immediately discovered. 

Who Is Legally Liable for Railroad Lifting Injuries in Illinois?

Potential defendants include rail companies, like BNSF or Metra, and third-party contractors, such as equipment providers or safety supervisors. 

Common Defenses Used By Illinois Rail Companies

Comparative Negligence: The company will argue that you didn’t use proper lifting techniques. Surveillance footage can refute this.

Preexisting Conditions: We will use medical records to counter defenses that you were injured prior to the accident.

Non-Work-Related: Medical experts can defend against arguments that your injury is unrelated to your job. 

How to Strengthen Your Claim in Illinois

• Report your injury and document your lifting task.
• Seek medical treatment as soon as possible, especially for back or shoulder injuries.
• Keep records of all doctors’ orders, medical restrictions, and time off work.
• Contact us before providing any recorded statements. 

How an Illinois FELA Law Firm Can Help

We will thoroughly investigate your injuries by acquiring work records, medical assessments, and expert ergonomics testimony. Through aggressive negotiation or trial representation, we give you the best chance at reasonable compensation.

FAQs

How much does an Illinois FELA lawyer cost?

Our FELA attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you only owe us if we secure compensation. 

Can I sue my railroad employer for a lifting injury?

Yes, you may be entitled to compensation if you can prove negligence by your employer. 

What if my lifting injury happened over time?

Our attorneys can help recover compensation by proving you suffered an overuse injury.

Are lifting injuries covered under FELA?

Yes, FELA allows you to seek a settlement for lifting accidents.

Book a Free Consultation

Our award-winning workplace injury law firm in Chicago helps workers statewide to receive the funds they need to recover, always on a contingency fee basis. Contact us today for a free consultation about your lifting injury.