Railroad accidents are frequent and often catastrophic, leaving workers with severe injuries. This can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardship.
At Leep Tescher Helfman and Zanze, we specialize in navigating these complex cases and fighting for the rights of injured workers.
We can guide you through the legal process, helping you understand your rights and pursue compensation for injuries caused by negligence, equipment failure, or unsafe working conditions.
Railroad injuries encompass a wide range of accidents that occur in the railway industry, often due to the dangerous nature of the work. From collisions and derailments to exposure to hazardous chemicals or repetitive stress, these injuries can be both physically and emotionally devastating.
Injuries on the railroad can happen for various reasons. Some of the most common include:
When two trains collide, the results can be catastrophic. These types of accidents may occur due to human error, poor maintenance, or even faulty signaling systems. Injuries from train collisions can range from minor cuts to severe, life-threatening damage.
Derailments often lead to significant injuries. Track defects, equipment failure, or miscommunication between crew members can cause a derailment. Workers caught in derailments may face blunt force trauma, burns, or even death.
Railroad workers are regularly exposed to slippery, uneven surfaces, making slip and fall injuries common. These accidents can lead to serious, long-term injuries, whether due to ice, wet conditions, or poorly maintained areas.
With the prevalence of electrified tracks, railroad workers are at high risk for electrocution. A misstep near high-voltage areas or equipment failure can result in severe burns or even death.
The repetitive nature of some railroad jobs can lead to chronic injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or joint problems. These injuries often develop over time due to the physical demands of the job.
Exposure to toxic chemicals or hazardous materials is another potential cause of injury on the railroad. Prolonged exposure to substances like asbestos or diesel exhaust can result in serious respiratory illnesses or even cancer.
When a railroad worker gets injured, the question of liability arises. Who is responsible for compensating the injured worker?
Railroad companies are often held liable for injuries caused by their negligence. Under federal law, they are required to ensure the safety of their employees and maintain safe working conditions. Failure to do so can make them responsible for any resulting injuries.
In some cases, third parties such as contractors or equipment manufacturers may be responsible for the injury. If the accident was caused by a defective product or inadequate service provided by a third-party vendor, they too may be held liable.
Injured railroad workers may be entitled to a variety of damages. These can be divided into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are the measurable financial losses caused by the injury.
If an injury prevents a worker from performing their job, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earnings.
Medical expenses related to the injury, including treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care, are also recoverable.
Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses.
This includes compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
The trauma of a serious injury often leads to emotional and psychological challenges, which can be compensated in a personal injury claim.
In cases where the injured worker can no longer provide emotional or physical support to their family, compensation may be awarded for loss of consortium.
Navigating a railroad injury case requires legal expertise, and that’s where a Railroad Injury Attorney at LTHZ Law can make all the difference.
Railroad injury cases often involve complex legal issues, including both state and federal laws. An attorney can ensure that your case is handled with the proper legal knowledge and expertise.
A thorough investigation is key to identifying the cause of the accident. We will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts to strengthen your case.
The success of your case depends on the evidence. A Railroad Injury Attorney will help gather all the necessary documentation, from medical examiner’s records to accident reports, to build a strong case in your favor.
Insurance companies often try to offer low settlements to avoid paying full compensation. A skilled attorney can help negotiate a fair settlement and prevent you from being taken advantage of.
If your case goes to trial, an experienced attorney will be your advocate in the courtroom, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Leep, Tescher, Helfman, and Zanze (LTHZ Law) have a long legacy of fighting for the rights of injured workers in Redding, CA and surrounding areas. Founded by Ben Leep and Skip Tescher, the firm has been a pillar of legal support for railroad workers for decades.
Today, under the leadership of Ben Helfman and Brian Zanze, LTHZ Law continues this mission, offering dedicated legal representation and personalized attention to each client. Contact us for questions or legal help. Fill out our forms today if you need help with your workers’ compensation claim process.
