Compensation for Workers Injured in Railcar Accidents

FELA Claims for Accidents Involving Railcars in Illinois

A railcar accident in Illinois can cause serious injuries to workers. If these train accidents are caused by negligence, workers can sue their employers under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA). IL Work Injury Lawyer can guide you through the claims process to increase your chances of securing fair compensation for legal damages. 

Railcar Accident Settlements Recovered by Our Chicago-Based Law Firm

• $7.2 million – Marco, 38, was killed at the BNSF Cicero Yard when a truck entered without clearance and struck him during a routine inspection. The settlement reflected serious safety violations and the loss to his young family.
• $470,000 – Walt, an Amtrak engineer, developed chronic back pain from years in poorly designed locomotive seats. Experts linked his condition to vibration exposure and lack of support.

Why Choose IL Work Injury Lawyer

Our top-rated firm is recognized among the top 5% of attorneys by Super Lawyers and maintains a five-star rating from AVVO. 

Types of Railcar Accident Cases We Handle

• Injuries during coupling/uncoupling
• Falls from railcars
• Track derailments involving railcars
• Crush injuries between railcars
• Hazardous material exposure from tank cars
• Malfunctioning brake systems

What is the Leading Cause of a Railcar Accident in Illinois?

• Defective couplers 
• Faulty braking systems
• Poor safety protocols
• Inadequate lighting 
• Reduced visibility
• Improperly loaded railcars
• Lack of proper training and site control
• Inadequate supervision

What Are the Most Common Injuries in Accidents Involving Railcars?

• Amputations
• Crushed body parts
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones
• Chemical or electrocution burns

What Damages Can Railcar Accident Victims Recover in Illinois?

Under FELA, there is no cap on compensation, as long as you can prove responsibility for the railroad company.

Economic Damages

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity

Non-Economic Damages

• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of normal life

What Is the Average Railcar Accident Settlement in Illinois?

Railroad accident settlements depend on numerous factors, including injury severity, legal damages, and liability, so there is no go-to amount. For example, Anna was a brake operator for CSX Transportation who suffered a hernia when she had to operate a brake wheel manually. She sued her employer and won over $293,000 because the previous users had applied the brakes in a way that tightened them up. 

Why You Need an Illinois Railcar Accident Lawyer

Proving employer negligence is required for a train accident investigation under FELA, and this can be tough when facing a well-funded corporation like Union Pacific Railroad. IL Work Injury Lawyer can level the playing field and litigate in the Cook County Circuit Court. 

Where Does a Railcar Accident Occur Most Often in Illinois?

• Proviso Yard
• Cicero Yard
• Markham Yard
• Joliet intermodal facilities
• Springfield freight terminals.

What Is the Time Limit to File a Claim Following a Railcard Accident in Illinois?

Per 45 U.S.C. § 56, you have three years to file your claim after a train accident, though this timeline can be delayed if you did not discover your injury right away. 

How to Strengthen Your Railcar Accident Case in Illinois

Here is what you must do to build a strong claim from the moment the train accident occurs:

• Report the accident immediately
• Get prompt medical treatment
• Take photos of the scene
• Preserve defective equipment
• Consult our top-rated firm

How We Can Help

A Chicago FELA lawyer from our team can help with:

• On-site accident investigations to determine the cause
• Requesting FRA/OSHA reports to review
• Engaging train engineering experts
• Analysis of lifetime costs of disability
• Litigating aggressively

FAQs

How much does a railcar accident lawyer cost?

Our firm uses a contingency fee agreement, which means you owe nothing unless we win. 

Are all railcar accidents covered under FELA?

All railway car and train accidents could meet the criteria under FELA if you can prove negligence.

Can I sue my employer for injuries from a defective railcar?

You could sue the employer for insufficient inspections or deferred maintenance of a defective railcar. 

What if my accident involved a hazmat tank car?

Exposure to toxic chemicals from collisions can cause serious injuries or fatalities, so survivors can sue negligent parties for damages. 

Seek Expert Legal Counsel

Access to expert attorneys can make all the difference in your claim. IL Work Injury Lawyer can represent railroad clients across the state, whether you were hurt as an employee, pedestrian, or train passenger. 

With a free consultation and contingency fee agreement, there are no upfront costs to work with our team. Contact a Chicago workplace accident attorney today to schedule a free case evaluation.