Railroad Slip and Fall and FELA Claims

Helping Injured Railroad Workers File FELA Claims Following Slip and Fall Accidents in Chicago, IL

Our railroad slip and fall attorneys assist those harmed due to employer negligence. If you were hurt at a Metra rail yard or on an Amtrak train, we will hold the railroad company accountable and secure a fair settlement. Contact us today for a free consultation about the legal complexities of these cases.

FELA Slip and Fall Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Chicago-Based Law Firm

$7,200,000: Calvin was directing trains at the Ogilvie Transportation Center when he fell onto the tracks and was fatally struck by a train. Our skilled FELA lawyers showed that a lack of hazard communication led to his death.

$1,500,000: Albert was working at the Cicero BNSF depot when he fell from a platform, injuring his shoulder. Our legal team demonstrated that BNSF failed to enforce safety procedures.

Why Choose IL Work Injury Lawyer for Your FELA Claim

Our top-rated railroad injury attorneys have successfully recovered compensation for over 5,000 workers, including rail yard employees and train conductors. We have a 98% success rate and are a Super Lawyers-rated law firm, proving our commitment to seeking compensation for injured workers harmed by a company’s negligence. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents on Illinois Railroads?

The railroad industry is tightly regulated by the Federal Railroad Administration and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, yet slip and fall injuries remain an issue. Common causes of these accidents include:

• Ice and snow on walkways
• Slippery surfaces due to leaks
• Loose gravel
• Uneven ties
• Inadequate lighting
• Inadequate maintenance and cleaning

What Are the Most Common Slip and Fall Injuries Sustained on Railroads?

Many railroad workers suffer serious injuries from falls, particularly falls from height. Common railroad worker injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Torn ligaments
• Facial and dental injuries
• Herniated discs and chronic back pain

What Damages Can Be Recovered Under the Federal Employers Liability Act?

FELA claims have no caps on damages, making it possible to secure fair compensation. Common damages awarded to injured workers include:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of normal life

What Is the Average FELA Slip and Fall Payout?

The average railroad worker injury payout is $724,569, with a range between $18,000 and $2,500,000. Your payout is determined by injury severity, liability evidence, recovery timeline, and disability. 

Example Cases

William E. Poole, an Amtrak conductor, was inspecting his train at Union Station when he slipped on ice, injuring his back and hips. He was awarded $2,500,000.00. 

James Gondek, a railcar inspector, fell due to slick surfaces from poor drainage in the rail yard. He injured his knee and was awarded $1,200,000.00 by a jury. 

Why You Need an Illinois Railroad Injury Lawyer

Understanding FELA claims is challenging, as standard workers’ compensation does not cover railroad workers. These claims require you to prove negligence, and they are typically filed in federal court rather than municipal court.

How Common Are Railroad Slip and Fall Accidents in Illinois?

In 2024, there were 593 train accidents in Illinois. 52 people were killed, both employees and non-employees, and there were 419 nonfatal injuries. A multi-year report by the Department of Transportation found that 39% of accidents are due to slips and falls or imprudent behavior. 

Where Do Railroad Slip and Fall Accidents Occur Most Often in Illinois?

• Chicago Union Station
• Ogilvie Transportation Center
• UP Proviso Yard
• BNSF Cicero Yard
• Metra 14th Street Yard
• Amtrak facilities throughout Illinois

What Laws Govern Slip and Fall Claims for Injured Railroad Workers in Illinois?

The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (45 U.S.C. §§ 51–60) covers injured workers at rail yards and other railroad centers. However, you must prove negligence to make a claim, such as by citing the Federal Railroad Administration regulations on workplace safety. 

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

The FELA statute of limitations is 3 years after the date of injury or discovery of injury (45 U.S.C. § 56). 

Who Is Legally Liable for Slip and Fall Injuries on Illinois Railroads?

Liable parties can include:

• Railroad employer, under FELA
• Third-party contractors like janitors
• Property owners

Common Defenses in Illinois FELA Slip and Fall Cases

Railroads will use these defenses to diminish their liability:

• Comparative negligence (to diminish claim value)
• Lack of hazard notice
• Open and obvious condition, for non-employees

Our experienced legal team will counter these using strong evidence like surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert testimony, ensuring you have a strong claim. 

How to Strengthen Your FELA Slip and Fall Case in Illinois

• Report the incident immediately.
• Take photos of the accident scene, including any hazards.
• Seek immediate medical care.
• Do not speak to insurance companies.
• Contact a FELA lawyer immediately.

How an Illinois Railroad Worker Injury Lawyer Can Help

Our team will guide you through the legal process, thoroughly investigate your claim, and ensure you are treated fairly by the legal system. We assist with the following tasks:

• Interviewing witnesses
• Gathering evidence
• Securing expert testimony on safety violations
• Negotiating with claims departments
• Representing you at trial, if necessary

FAQs

How much does an Illinois lawyer cost?

We work on a contingency fee basis: you owe us nothing unless we win. 

Can I sue my railroad employer for a slip and fall injury?

You can sue for slip and fall injuries if you can prove that the employer failed to provide a safe working environment and fix hazardous conditions. 

What if the slip and fall happened during bad weather?

If weather conditions contributed to your slip and fall injuries, you must prove that the railroad failed to prevent fall incidents regardless of the weather, such as by clearing ice or installing non-slip material on exposed surfaces. 

Are railroad workers covered by workers’ compensation in Illinois?

No, railroad employees are not covered by traditional workers’ comp. Instead, they are protected by federal law under FELA. This is a negligence-based system that requires evidence of liability. 

Secure Expert Legal Representation

Life-changing fall injuries deserve fair compensation. We provide our world-class legal representation and expert FELA litigation on a contingency fee basis, so you owe us nothing out of pocket. Contact a Chicago workplace accident lawyer today for a free consultation about your FELA claim.