Chicago Train Accident Lawyer

Recovering Compensation for Railroad Accident Victims in Chicago

The railroad industry is still a very important piece of the economic infrastructure in Illinois. With multiple commercial and passenger trains operating in Chicago, there is always a chance that someone could get hurt in a train crash. If you get injured due to someone else’s negligence, you can work with a Chicago train accident lawyer to pursue compensation.

At Chicago Injury Center, we know how to hold railroad companies accountable for dangerous conditions. Our law firm will investigate your case to ensure you receive a fair settlement for your losses from accidents involving CTA, Metra, Amtrak trains, and other freight operators.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Center

Our law firm is recognized among the top 5% of attorneys by Super Lawyers. Our head attorney is also a contributing author for the National Law Review. Experience is essential when dealing with railroad negligence, and we have that in spades.

Here is an example of a case we have resolved involving a railroad accident:

$1.8 million – While stepping down from a platform at Union Station, operator James slipped and severely injured his shoulder. His injury required multiple surgeries and left him unable to return to full duty as a train operator. The recovery accounted for his ongoing pain, permanent work restrictions, and the railroad’s lack of proper fall-prevention measures in a high-traffic area.

Types of Train Accident Cases We Handle

Our train accident lawyers can handle many types of cases involving railroad injuries:

• Derailments (Metra, Amtrak, freight rail)
• “L” train collisions and derailments
• Train-pedestrian collisions at crossings or trespassing areas
• Railroad worker injuries under FELA
• Equipment and signal malfunction claims
• Crashes involving vehicles at grade crossings

What Are the Most Common Causes of Train Accidents in Chicago?

Determining the cause will be a crucial service provided by our personal injury lawyers after a Chicago train accident:

• Operator error
• Train derailment
• Equipment malfunction
• Defective train tracks or signals
• Grade railroad crossing collisions
• Faulty warning systems
• Obstructed crossings
• Poor maintenance

Some of the most dangerous locations in Chicago include the Van Buren crossing, elevated railroad tracks in the Loop area, and Metra line crossings in industrial zones.

What Are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Train Accidents?

Serious injuries from a train accident can include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Crush injuries
• Fractures
• Burns
• Amputations
• Smoke inhalation
• PTSD
• Death

What Damages Can Train Accident Victims Recover in Chicago?

Physical injuries can lead to devastating health, emotional, and financial consequences. Here are some legal damages you can recover with the help of Chicago personal injury lawyers:

• Economic damages – Lost wages, medical bills, ongoing medical care expenses, and diminished earning capacity
• Non-economic damages – Emotional distress, pain and suffering, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death claim – Funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of consortium

What Is the Average Train Accident Settlement in Chicago?

There have been numerous train accident victims in recent years, and these cases have resulted in an average payout of $8.8 million. The range for these settlements is $14,673 to almost $56 million.

Some factors that will determine fair compensation include injury severity, liability, available evidence, and insurance policies.

Example Railroad Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

In 2001, Lilia was driving an SUV with her two parents when they crossed a railroad intersection where the gates were up and the signals were inactive. The vehicle was struck by a freight train, causing catastrophic injuries to all three victims. The family sued multiple entities for failing to maintain crossing signals and failing to communicate about a dangerous crossing. The jury awarded a total of $55.8 million.

In 2009, Jose and his wife, Zoila, were waiting at a railroad crossing when a train derailment occurred because of a washout. The explosion engulfed their car, fatally wounding Zolia and seriously injuring Jose. He sued the train company because it was discovered that they had known about the washout and failed to stop the train. A settlement of $22.5 million was agreed upon.

Why You Need a Train Accident Lawyer

A Chicago train accident can involve federal and state laws, common-carrier liability, multi-party investigations, and technical evidence.

Our top-rated attorneys can help you fight for full and fair compensation.

How Often Do Train Accidents Happen in Chicago?

Between 2004 and 2012, there were roughly 338 fatalities resulting from railway accidents involving pedestrian or non-motorized members of the public.

What Laws Govern Train Accident Claims in Chicago?

Personal Injury Cases

625 ILCS 5/ – Illinois motorists must follow state laws in the vehicle code

735 ILCS 5/13-202 – Personal injury victims have two years to hold the responsible parties accountable via claims

740 ILCS 180/2 – For victims who die due to someone else’s negligence, surviving family members have two years to seek wrongful death damages

Claims Against the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra Trains, and Other Railroad Companies

Under state law 70 ILCS 3605/ (Metropolitan Transit Authority Act), injured parties only have one year to pursue legal action.

Injured Train Operators and Other Workers

Serious injuries to railroad employees would fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (45 U.S. Code § 51).

Who Is Legally Liable for Train Accidents in Chicago?

Our experienced attorneys can help you file claims against the following negligent parties:

• CTA
• Metra
• Amtrak
• Freight rail operators
• Train operators
• Vehicle drivers
• Government entities

How to Strengthen Your Train Accident Case in Chicago

• Report the accident to the authorities and the train company
• Seek immediate medical care
• Obtain the accident report
• Photograph the scene
• Collect maintenance logs and signal data
• Preserve witness testimony
• Consult Chicago Injury Center

How a Chicago Railroad Accident Lawyer Can Help

Our legal services include:

• Investigating the railroad accident
• Hiring railroad experts
• Determining liability
• Filing FELA or personal injury claims
• Litigating in court to secure maximum compensation
• Offering a free consultation

Contact Our Law Firm Today

At Chicago Injury Center, we work on a contingency fee agreement, which means you owe nothing unless we win. Our team will negotiate for maximum compensation by gathering evidence and building a strong case.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with Chicago train accident attorneys.