Railroad Worker Injuries

Although railroad work is vital to our transportation system and economy, it presents unique risks and challenges.

construction worker holding his hat and rubbing his head

San Antonio Attorneys for Railroad Injuries

Railroad workers may be exposed to hazardous conditions, leaving them susceptible to sustaining serious injuries. If you have been hurt while working for a railroad company, our board-certified personal injury attorneys in San Antonio can help you navigate the legal landscape and seek the compensation you deserve.

What Are Some Common Causes of Railroad Worker Injuries?

Railroad workers face hazards daily that can result in a range of injuries. The following are some of the most common causes of injury:

Train collisions: Moving train accidents can cause catastrophic or fatal injuries.
Chemical exposure: Railroad workers may be exposed to hazardous materials, which can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.
Falls: Railroad employees often work at heights or on uneven surfaces. This can lead to falls from heights and slip or trip and fall accidents.
Equipment malfunction: When heavy machinery or equipment malfunctions, it can cause serious injuries to workers.
Repetitive stress: Railroad workers may develop musculoskeletal injuries over time due to the physical demands of the work.
Negligence: Injured workers may have negligence claims when railroad companies or other parties fail to provide a safe working environment.

What Are Some Common Types of Railroad Worker Injuries?

The railroad is one of the most dangerous workplaces in the country. Workers may suffer severe injuries that require surgery or amputation or result in death. The following are some common railroad worker injuries:

Head injuries: Concussion and traumatic brain injury can be caused by falling objects or the impact of accidents.
Bone fractures: Bones can be broken in falls and collisions or from being struck by equipment or trains.
Back injuries: Heavy lifting, twisting, and prolonged standing can cause injury to the back.
Sprains and strains: These common injuries may be caused by awkward movements, repetitive motion, or heavy lifting.
Crush injuries: Workers caught in between heavy machinery, or trains can suffer serious crush injuries.
Burn injuries: Severe burns can be caused by exposure to hot surfaces, electrical issues, and chemicals.
Eye injuries: Chemical splashes, flying debris, and improper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can cause injury to the eyes.
Hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to high noise levels from machinery and trains can lead to permanent hearing loss.

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What Protections Do Railroad Workers Have Under the Law?

Unlike most employees, who are covered by state workers’ compensation laws, railroad workers are protected under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). This law allows railroad employees to sue their employers for injuries resulting from negligence. Employees must prove that employer negligence contributed to their injuries to prevail in such lawsuits. Negligence may involve inadequate training, lack of proper safety equipment, or failure to maintain safe working conditions. The advantages FELA provides include the following:

A broader scope of compensation: Under FELA, injured railroad workers may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs, which is more than workers’ compensation usually provides.
No cap on damages: Unlike workers’ compensation, there is no limitation on the amount of damages an injured worker can seek under FELA. Each case is evaluated individually.

Do You Need a Railroad Worker Injuries Lawyer?

If you have been seriously injured while working for a railroad company, your best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve is to have an experienced personal injury attorney handling your case. Our board-certified personal injury attorneys at Scheuerman Law Firm have considerable experience and expertise. We will meet with you to discuss the liability and damages evaluation for your injury case for settlement and/or a trial. We communicate directly with our clients, provide personal attention, and offer bilingual services. Contact our firm for dedicated legal advocacy in a railroad worker injury claim.