Chicago Train Accident Injury Guide

Common Injuries From Train Accidents

While train accidents are less common than automobile accidents, they can cause many types of injuries, many of which are catastrophic or even fatal. The nature and degree of these injuries are usually determined by the details of the incident, such as the speed of the train during the time of impact and the circumstances preceding the accident.

Common injuries sustained in train accidents include the following:

• Cuts and bruises: Minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and bruises are common, usually caused by abrupt jolts that causes passengers to slam into objects or one another.
• Broken Bones: The force exerted during a train accident can cause fractures in the ribs, arms, and legs.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): When a passenger's head meets a hard surface during a collision, they can develop brain injuries, including concussions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These are some of the most serious injuries, with the potential for paralysis or other permanent disability.
• Amputations: In particularly severe cases, victims may suffer traumatic amputations, especially if they are ejected from the train or trapped in wreckage.
• Neck and Back Injuries: The impact and subsequent whipping motion can cause significant neck and back injuries, including whiplash and spinal damage.
• Burns: Fires or explosions resulting from the accident can cause burns, ranging from minor to severe.

Given the potential for serious harm, it's crucial for train accident victims to seek immediate medical attention and to get in touch with a skilled accident attorney in Chicago.

Who Is Liable for Injuries a Train Accident Causes?

Various parties can be liable for train accident injuries depending on the specific circumstances.

Potentially liable parties include:

• Train Operators: If an operator acted negligently, they could be responsible for the harm their actions caused. 
• Railroad Companies: These entities can be liable if their failure to maintain railways, signals, or equipment resulted in an accident. 
• Maintenance Contractors: Third-party contractors can be legally responsible for faulty maintenance or poor workmanship.
• Government Entities: Many trains use federally or state-owned infrastructure. If the government has failed to keep railways safe, they could be liable.
• Vehicle Drivers or Pedestrians: In accidents that involve collisions with cars or pedestrians, either can be responsible for the wreck if they were negligent or disobeyed traffic laws.

When making an injury or wrongful death claim after a train accident, it is important to consult with an attorney who has experience handling cases involving railroad law. Determining liability and pursuing a claim can be complicated, but seasoned professionals like our Chicago train accident lawyers have the know-how for the task. 

Common Carrier Laws And Train Accidents in Chicago

Navigating common carrier laws involving train accidents in Illinois requires an understanding of the specific statutes and safety standards that apply to carriers such as trains and buses. In Illinois, common carriers are held to stringent safety obligations under the Common Carrier Liability Act (740 ILCS 25/), ensuring they adhere to high safety standards due to the nature of their services to the public. This act mandates that carriers must operate in the safest manner possible, which includes maintaining and inspecting vehicles and infrastructure to prevent accidents.

When an accident occurs, it's crucial for victims or their families to be aware of these regulations. The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/) provides general provisions on the responsibilities of motor common carriers, including the necessity for routine inspections and the adherence to safety protocols.
Those who have been involved in a rail accident in Illinois should obtain legal guidance from a skilled attorney who specializes in this area. A lawyer with experience in common carrier accidents can assist you navigate the complicated legal landscape, ensuring that the carrier's compliance with state laws is thoroughly investigated and the injured parties' rights are adequately protected. 

At Driscoll Law Group, our Chicago train accident attorneys can help with filing a case -- we are ready to investigate all the facts of your case. If you or a loved one were injured in a serious railroad accident, reach out as soon as possible.

Discuss Your Injuries and Available Damages with Train Accident Lawyers in Chicago

Contact Driscoll Law Group to schedule a free consultation. During this initial meeting, our attorneys can hear your story and provide information about the damages you could recover. In the past, our team has helped clients cover medical bills, obtain lost wages, and receive compensation for the intangible effects a train accident had on their lives. Starting with us is simple. Get in touch by phone or fill out our online contact form. We will respond promptly and work to set up a convenient time to talk about your situation. 

Call a seasoned Chicago train accident lawyer at Driscoll Law Group any time at (312) 626-3008 or complete our online form.