When something goes wrong on a railroad, the consequences can be life-changing. If you were injured in an accident that could’ve been prevented, a Texas railroad injury lawyer can help you file a claim.
The team at Poolson | Oden has over 80 years of combined legal experience. If you were injured while working on a railroad, a railroad injury lawyer in Texas can help you build a strong claim and secure the compensation you deserve.
How Can a Texas Railroad Injury Lawyer Help Me?
Railroad injury claims are rarely straightforward. A railroad injury attorney in Texas can step in and help with the following:
- Case investigation: A lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation to uncover what caused your accident and who is responsible.
- Evidence collection: An attorney can gather evidence like maintenance records, safety reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to strengthen your claim.
- Damage calculation: A lawyer can ensure that all your losses are accounted for, including medical expenses, lost wages, future care, and reduced earning capacity.
- Settlement negotiations: A lawyer can handle negotiations with your employer or their insurer and work to obtain a fair settlement.
- Court representation: If necessary, an attorney can take your case to trial and fight for a fair outcome.
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Types of Railroad Injury Cases We Handle
All kinds of injuries can occur on a railroad. Our firm can help if you need a:
- Texas On-Duty Railroad Accident Lawyer: Railroad workers face daily hazards, from heavy machinery to moving trains. We can investigate your injury, identify safety violations, and pursue compensation for your losses.
- Texas Railroad Chemical Exposure and Cancer Lawyer: Prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals is a serious risk in the railroad industry. We can help link your illness to workplace exposure and obtain compensation for your medical expenses.
- Texas Railroad Trauma, Stress, & Body Vibration Lawyer: Repetitive stress injuries and constant vibration from heavy equipment can cause lasting harm. We can document your condition, demonstrate how your work contributed to it, and pursue damages for your reduced quality of life.
- Texas Railroad Burn Injury Lawyer: Burns from explosions, electrical accidents, or hazardous materials can cause devastating injuries. We can gather evidence to prove liability and help you recover compensation for the harm you suffered.
- Texas Railroad Brain Injury Lawyer: Head injuries are among the most serious types of injuries that can occur on a railroad. We can work with medical professionals to assess the full extent of your injury and pursue compensation for both your current and future medical bills.
Types of Compensation Available
Railroad injury victims are entitled to a wide range of damages under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), such as:
- Medical bills: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to your injury.
- Lost wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you can recover the income you lost during your recovery.
- Loss of earning capacity: If you can’t return to the same job or earn the same income, you may be compensated for the difference.
- Pain and suffering: You can seek damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injury.
- Disability and disfigurement: Permanent injuries that affect your ability to function or alter your appearance can significantly increase the value of your claim.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct by the at-fault party, you may be able to pursue additional damages.
What is the Time Limit to File a Railroad Injury Claim in Texas?
Under FELA, you generally have three years from the date of a railroad injury to file a claim. If your injury developed over time( such as with repetitive stress injuries or chemical exposure), the clock may start when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the condition.
Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation, which is why it’s important to start building your case right away.
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SPEAK WITH AN ATTORNEY TODAYCommon Causes of Railroad Injuries in Texas
Railroad injuries don’t just happen randomly. In many cases, they are the result of preventable hazards or unsafe practices. Some of the most common causes include:
- Poorly maintained tracks or equipment
- Defective tools or machinery
- Inadequate training or supervision
- Unsafe work environments
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Fatigue from long shifts and demanding schedules
What is FELA?
The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) is a federal law that allows railroad workers to seek compensation when they are injured on the job due to employer negligence. It was created specifically for railroad employees because of the dangerous nature of their work.
Unlike standard workers’ comp systems, FELA is fault-based, which means you must prove that your employer (or another party) was at least partially responsible for your injury. The upside is that FELA claims often allow for higher compensation, including damages for pain and suffering, which are not typically available in workers’ compensation cases.
What to Do After a Railroad Injury in Texas
What you do immediately after an on-duty railroad injury can have a major impact on your ability to recover compensation. Be sure to:
- Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible.
- Document the accident scene and your injuries (if possible).
- Obtain contact information from any witnesses at the scene.
- Seek medical attention, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers.
- Get in touch with a lawyer promptly.
Speak to a Railroad Injury Attorney in Texas
If you were injured due to your employer’s negligence, you have the right to take legal action. A Texas railroad injury attorney from Poolson | Oden can assist with your claim, negotiate on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
Don’t Get Railroaded®. Schedule a free case review to find out if you have grounds for a claim.