Train and Subway Accident Personal Injury Lawyers

When a moving train strikes a pedestrian or a motor vehicle, the outcome almost always is tragic. In many cases, accidents involving trains occur due to the negligence of the train's operator. The same holds true for many serious accidents involving trains, such as an Amtrak train derailment. In these cases, the train engineer, the railroad, or another party may be partially or completely liable. If this is the case, a Philadelphia train accident lawyer can assist in a railroad accident lawsuit to help injured individuals receive fair compensation.

Railroad crossings may be in a state of disrepair or may have been of poor design from the beginning. Unsecured crossbars or obscured views of approaching vehicles by another stopped train may all contribute to calamity. In the subway, the conductor may have acted negligently by failing to ensure travelers were clear of the train or that the machine was used at the appropriate speed.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as a result of a train or subway accident, you need the advice of a
train or subway accident lawyer. To help determine if you have a claim, please call The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP at 1-800-624-8888 or
submit an InjuryLawyer.com free online case evaluation. The initial consultation with one of our railroad accident lawyers is FREE. If we agree to handle your case, there is no legal fee unless we are successful in getting you money. damaged railroad track

Some lawsuits must be filed before an impending expiration date, known as a Statute of Limitations. Therefore, you must call or contact us right away to ensure you are not forgoing your rights to monetary and or other compensation.

Understanding Train Accidents

Transportation accidents are most often connected with cars, trucks, and motorcycles. However, many train and subway accidents occur with surprising frequency that injure people every day. The Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis (FRA) offers a running list of accidents and yearly statistics that explain where train accidents are most likely to strike. It is a helpful resource to keep up to date on these sorts of incidents.

In a recent year, nearly 3,000 highway-rail grade crossing collisions happened throughout the country, injuring 766 and killing 247. Pennsylvania reported 54 railroad accidents during this same time that injured 22 and killed one. These statistics pertain to crossing incidents only and not other types of train accident cases.

If a train collides with you or your vehicle, it is a critical and potentially life-threatening situation. Here are steps to take depending on the specific circumstances:

What Should I Do If a Train Collides with Me?

If You Are in a Vehicle Stuck on Train Tracks:

1. Exit the Vehicle Immediately:

Leave the car as quickly as possible, even if a train is not yet visible.
Help others in the vehicle to get out too.

2. Move Away from the Tracks:

Walk at a 45-degree angle away from the tracks in the direction the train is coming from. This helps you avoid being hit by debris if the train strikes your vehicle.

3. Call Emergency Services:

Dial the emergency number (e.g., 911 in the U.S.).
Provide your location using landmarks, crossings, or mile markers.

4. Locate the Emergency Notification System Sign:

At most railroad crossings, there is a blue sign with a phone number and crossing ID. Use this to report the situation to the railroad.

If You Are on Foot and the Train Strikes:

1. Stay Calm and Assess Injuries:

If you’re conscious and can move, assess yourself for injuries.

2. Get to Safety:

Move away from the tracks and any potential hazards (e.g., derailed cars or fuel leaks).

3. Call for Help:

Contact emergency services immediately.

4. Wait for Emergency Personnel:

Do not attempt to return to the tracks or investigate the scene until professionals have deemed it safe.

In the Aftermath of a Train Collision:

Seek Medical Attention:

Even if you feel fine, some injuries (e.g., internal bleeding or concussion) may not be immediately apparent.

Contact Authorities:

File a report with law enforcement or relevant authorities.

Document the Incident:

If you are able, take photos or videos of the scene for insurance or legal purposes.

Follow-Up Support:

Contact insurance companies or legal professionals if needed.
Consider counseling or mental health support for emotional recovery.
Contact a train wreck attorney to discuss your options for obtaining compensation.

Prevention Tips:

Never try to beat a train at a crossing.
Obey all signals, gates, and warnings at crossings.
Avoid distractions when near train tracks.
Report malfunctioning signals to authorities.

Your safety is the priority—act quickly and decisively in such situations.

What Kinds of Compensation Can an Attorney Help Me Receive from a Train Accident Claim?

An attorney can help you pursue various types of compensation following a train accident, depending on the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries or losses, and the responsible parties. Here are the primary categories of compensation that an attorney might help you obtain:

Economic Damages (Tangible Losses)

These damages are intended to reimburse you for the financial costs you incurred due to the accident. Examples include:

Medical Expenses

Current and future medical bills, such as:
Hospital stays
Surgery
Medications
Rehabilitation and physical therapy
Assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, prosthetics)

Lost Wages

Compensation for income lost due to time off work while recovering.
Includes future lost earning capacity if the injuries prevent you from returning to work or limit your ability to work.

Property Damage

Costs to repair or replace personal property damaged in the accident, such as:
Vehicles
Electronics
Clothing or other personal items.

Non-Economic Damages (Intangible Losses)

These damages are more subjective and compensate for the emotional and psychological effects of the accident:

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident and injuries.

Emotional Distress

Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health conditions caused by the accident.

Loss of Consortium

Compensation for the impact on relationships with a spouse, partner, or family members due to injuries.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

Compensation for the inability to engage in hobbies, activities, or other aspects of life you enjoyed before the accident.

Punitive Damages (In Cases of Gross Negligence or Malice)

If the train operator, railway company, or another party acted with extreme negligence or recklessness, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Wrongful Death Damages (If Applicable)

If a train accident results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for:

Funeral and burial expenses.
Loss of financial support.
Loss of companionship or guidance.
Emotional suffering of surviving family members.

Potential Liable Parties in a Train Accident Claim

An attorney will investigate the case to determine liability. Potential defendants may include:

The train operator.
The railway company.
Maintenance contractors.
Equipment or parts manufacturers.
Local governments or third parties responsible for crossing signals or roadway maintenance.

How an Attorney Helps Maximize Compensation

Thorough Investigation: Gathering evidence such as maintenance records, surveillance footage, and eyewitness testimony.
Negotiation with Insurers: Handling insurance adjusters who may try to minimize your claim.
Litigation: Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Expert Testimony: Using medical, financial, or engineering experts to substantiate your claim.

Hiring an experienced attorney ensures you have a strong advocate to navigate complex legal processes, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.

Contact Our Philadelphia Train Accident Lawyers Today

If a Philadelphia train or subway accident hurt you or a loved one, don’t wait to get the legal support you need. At The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP, we understand the devastating impact a train accident can have on your life, and we are here to fight tirelessly for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Choose The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP?

Proven Track Record: With over 50 years of experience, we’ve recovered billions of dollars for clients in personal injury cases, including train accident victims.
Dedicated Advocacy: Our team of skilled attorneys is committed to holding negligent parties accountable, whether it's a railway company, train operator, or manufacturer.
Personalized Attention: We treat every client like family, providing compassionate guidance and a tailored legal strategy to meet your unique needs.
No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Experienced Trial Attorneys: If your case goes to court, our seasoned litigators have the expertise to present a compelling case on your behalf.

Your Recovery Starts Today

Time is critical when it comes to train accident claims. Evidence can disappear, and legal deadlines may limit your ability to file. Let The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing while we handle your case.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our trusted Philadelphia train accident lawyers help you get the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

Philadelphia Office Location

The Rothenberg Law Firm LLP
1420 Walnut Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19102

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