Train and railroad accidents have the potential to result in catastrophic workplace injuries or even fatalities. Freight trains and passenger trains are a common sight in Los Angeles. Trains are undoubtedly an important part of Southern California's economy because they help transport cargo to and from this region. However, accidents involving trains do occur, they can be devastating. Motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists are all at risk of being injured by trains. Passengers who ride trains and count on them to get from one place to another are also vulnerable to injury in railroad accidents.
If you are the victim of a train accident, it is important that you seek the counsel of an experienced Los Accident train accident attorney who can help you better understand your legal rights and options. Greenberg and Ruby Injury Attorneys can advise you about how to secure compensation for your train accident injuries, damages and losses. Simply fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
Types of Train Accident Injuries
Train accident injuries can lead to severe injuries that could prove costly in the short and long-term. Our railroad accident attorneys can help you pursue fair and full compensation by holding the responsible parties accountable. We will work to help you secure compensation for medical expenses, treatment and care, legal services, lost income including loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. We are skilled negotiators and trial attorneys who will pursue all potential pathways to help you secure maximum possible compensation for your losses.
Train accidents could potentially result in injuries including:
Traumatic brain injuries: These are injuries that could result in long-term or lifelong injuries that could require ongoing care and rehabilitation. Head injuries also often result in death.
Multiple broken bones: While broken bones are often not life threatening, they have the potential to result in disabilities and disfigurement.
Spinal cord trauma: Injuries to the neck and back could have a wide range of consequences from paralysis to chronic pain and disabilities. These are also injuries that could result in loss of livelihood and may require ongoing treatment and care.
Internal organ damage: These types of injuries could cause internal bleeding, which could prove to be a fatal injury accident. Internal injuries require immediate emergency attention and treatment.
At Greenberg and Ruby Injury Attorneys, we handle all the paperwork and procedural work that is required to file a lawsuit and gather evidence in your case so you can focus on recuperating from your injuries. Our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don't have to stress out about paying costs or fees. You don't have to pay us
anything unless we win compensation for you.
What Are the Main Causes of Train Accidents?
There are a number of reasons why train accidents occur in Los Angeles:
Lack of warning signs: This is one of the biggest dangers at street-level crossings. The railroad company has a responsibility to make sure that these crossings have visual and audible warning systems in place such as signs, lights and bells to warn motorists and pedestrians about trains that are crossing. These crossings should also have functional arms that come down to prevent vehicles from going over the tracks when trains are approaching the crossing. When a crossing doesn't have these warning systems in place, there is a heightened risk of a train versus vehicle collision.
Negligent train conductors or drivers: A train conductor's tasks vary depending on the transportation of passengers or cargo. Along with leading a locomotive, train conductors perform a number of duties from management and crew communication to customer service and passenger welfare. When a train conductor is negligent or fails to pay attention, the consequences can be devastating. The same goes for a train driver who is distracted or not paying attention to the conditions.
Unsafe speeds: Trains that operate at an unsafe rate of speed could end up causing major accidents. When a train runs at a high speed, it might be more difficult for the driver to stop the train in time to avoid a devastating collision.
Faulty equipment: The railroad and the train's operator have a duty to make sure the trains are in good condition and that defective parts are repaired or replaced. Faulty equipment could put everyone in danger.
Elements of a Train Accident Case
When you file a train accident lawsuit, it is important to remember that depending on the facts of your case, you may be going against a governmental agency, a transit authority or a large railroad company. Cases against large corporations and governmental entities can be complex and challenging.
In cases where the train accident was an employee's fault (such as a driver, conductor or some other party), California law allows civilians to bring negligence claims against the government. In such cases, the government will be held vicariously liable for an employee's negligence or wrongdoing. A knowledgeable and experienced Los Angeles train accident attorney can help you determine whether you have a case and what your case could be worth.
Who is Liable in a Train/Railroad Accident in Los Angeles?
The following parties may be held responsible with a train accident lawsuit:
- The train company such as Amtrak
- The owner of the railway
- A negligent train operator or conductor
- A negligent maintenance company, worker or crew
- Property owners
- Governmental agencies such as the transit authority
Damages in Los Angeles Train Accident Cases
If you have suffered an injury in a train accident, you may require extensive medical treatment and care. The costs could add up very quickly depending on the nature and extent of your injuries. In addition to medical expenses, train accident victims could also seek compensation for lost income, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
The experienced train accident lawyers at Greenberg and Ruby Injury Attorneys are prepared to pursue all avenues of compensation for our injured clients and their families. We conduct independent investigations to collect the evidence that will strengthen your claim and help maximize your recovery. Call us today to schedule your free consultation and case evaluation.
