Railroad Injury Statistics

America’s rail network is composed of almost 140,000 miles of track and over 100,000 bridges. Over 120,000 employees work in rail transportation, all of whom may be in danger of serious injuries or death. In this article, our FELA attorneys will review railroad injury statistics, then explain what to do if you find yourself injured at work. 

What Causes Railroad Accidents?

The Department of Transportation collects data on leading causes of train accidents. Their reports include events involving the following causes:

• Collisions due to human error
• Malfunctioning railroad on-track equipment
• Fires and explosions
• Derailments
• Events involving trespassers, including suicide by rail

Other incidents that may result in railroad worker fatalities or injuries include adverse weather events, inadequate maintenance, poor hazard communication, and animal collisions, particularly on rural railroads. 

National Federal Railroad Administration Statistics

• There were 1,715 train accidents in 2024 nationwide. 
• From January 2025 to April 2025, there were 3,129 incidents reported to the FRA nationwide.
• The accident rate is 15.598 per million train miles. 
• 317 fatalities occurred between January and April 2025, with 3 on-duty employee fatalities.
• 6,542 people were injured on railroads in 2024, with 3,221 non-fatal employee on-duty injuries.

Common Injuries Resulting in Lost Work Days (LWD)

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) completed an exhaustive study on injury types common in the rail industry. These include the following insights. 

• Strains and sprains are the most common reasons for lost working days (LWD).
• The most affected body parts are the arms and hands. 
• Slips, trips, and falls account for the most LWD.
• Walking, running, and stepping over equipment are the most common triggering events for accidents.
• Most injuries occurred between the 4th and 6th hours on duty for employees.
• Being stuck or caught by an object was the most common trigger for LWD.
• Job-related absences result in over $1 billion in lost revenue annually.

Highway Rail Grade Crossing Incidents

• Between 2021 and the first quarter of 2025, there were 9,537 highway-rail incidents.
• In that same period, there were 3,328 injuries and 1,095 fatalities at highway-rail grade crossings.
• The greatest cause of rail grade crossing accidents was automobile collisions. Between 2021 and April 2025, 4,220 accidents involving autos resulted in 1,313 injuries and 350 fatalities.
• Nationwide, 5 school buses were hit by trains between 2021 and 2025, resulting in one person being hurt. 

Illinois Railroad Accident Statistics

• In 2024, there were 593 railroad accidents in Illinois.
• There were 519 highway rail grade incidents, 173 injuries, and 93 fatalities between 2021 and April 2025. 
• Between 2021 and 2025, there were 236 highway rail incidents in Cook County alone.
• Cook County saw 81 injuries and 39 deaths between 2021 and 2025. 
• 52 people died in train accidents in 2024, the same rate as 2023. 
• 204 employees were hurt at work in 2024. 

What To Do If You’re Injured in a Train Accident 

Railroad accidents can lead to tragic outcomes, making it crucial that you respond quickly. Follow these steps as soon as possible.

• Report the accident to your supervisor. If the accident happens while the train is in transit, note the rail mile marker. Request a copy of the incident report. 
• Seek immediate medical care at the closest emergency room.
• Take photos of the accident scene, particularly any potential hazards.
• If possible, review FRA reports, DOT reports, and OSHA violation records.
• Gather contact information for anyone present when you were hurt. 
• Do not speak to insurers or the train company without an attorney present.
• Contact an experienced railroad attorney as soon as possible. 

How A Train Accident Attorney Can Help

Railroad companies will do everything possible to reduce their liability and prevent you from earning compensation, making it crucial that you have a skilled attorney on your side. Our team will guide you through every step of the legal process, including performing the following tasks:

• Investigating the incident to determine liability.
• Reviewing Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration, and OSHA reports to identify potential negligence.
• Evaluating your damages, including future care needs.
• Consulting with railroad experts to improve your case.
• Filing Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) claims and third-party liability claims.
• Aggressively negotiating for maximum compensation.
• Representing you at trial if necessary.

FELA has a statute of limitations of just three years (45 USCS § 51-60), making it essential that you act quickly. Contact our skilled attorneys to determine whether you are eligible for a claim.

Consult With a Train Accident Lawyer Today!

Our nationally recognized workplace accident attorneys level the playing field for railroad workers, ensuring that they are treated fairly by rail companies. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless we secure compensation for you. Schedule a free consultation with the best Chicago attorneys and start your path toward justice.