The Law Offices of Samuel Fishman is a law firm specializing in train accident cases in New Jersey. Our firm has represented clients in some of the largest train accident settlements in New Jersey. If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, we can help. Our experienced Philadelphia train accident attorneys will fight for the compensation you deserve.
When to take help from a New Jersey Train Accident Attorney?
Train travel is often seen as a safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. However, when train accidents occur, the impact can be devastating for those involved and their families. Considering their size and speed, it is no surprise that train accidents often result in widespread property damage, multiple injuries, and even fatalities. This is especially true for the large number of trains carrying hazardous chemicals.
In 2019 alone, the Federal Railroad Administration reported 1,835 accidents involving trains. Further, these reported accidents resulted in over 900 deaths.
When a train accident occurs, those injured are often overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help. To ensure that you are fully compensated for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages, you must contact an experienced New Jersey train accident attorney.
Railroads and trains are heavily regulated at the federal, state, and local levels, and the laws that govern a particular incident can vary widely. Choosing an experienced New Jersey auto accident attorney who can navigate these regulations is critical.
Common Types of Train Crashes
Both freight and passenger trains have accidents in New Jersey. The most common types of train accidents include:
- Derailments
- Collisions with motor vehicles
- Train-pedestrian accidents
Regardless of the type of train accident, assigning fault is difficult and complicated. However, most train accidents can be attributed to one or more of the following common causes:
- Operator error – According to the Department of Transportation, human error is a primary cause of train accidents. These errors, such as traveling too fast, can vary widely and be traced to lack of experience, fatigue, intoxication, health and vision issues, and other mistakes.
- Reckless or negligent motorists or pedestrians – All too often, the reckless or negligent actions of a motor vehicle driver or pedestrian at a crossing cause a train accident. Trying to cross a track before a train arrives can result in horrific accidents.
- Mechanical failure – A defect or a failure to maintain or repair a train or length of track can result in derailment.
- Unprotected railroad crossings – Many railroad crossings in the United States lack proper markings, gates, lights, and other safety protections. This can result in the driver of a motor vehicle or pedestrian missing a warning and coming into contact with a crossing train.
- Stalled cars on track – Whether due to driver negligence or a defect in the automobile, a car stalled or left on a railroad track presents a serious risk of an accident.
- Suicide by train – According to the United States Department of Transportation, over 200 railroad suicide fatalities were reported annually between 2012 and 2017.
The victims of a train accident can be numerous and include not only train passengers but also railroad workers, passengers in motor vehicles, pedestrians, and other bystanders. Property owners near an accident site can likewise suffer damage to real and personal property.
Common Injuries Sustained In A Train Accident
Depending upon the circumstances, victims in a train accident can suffer a wide array of injuries, up to and including death. Survivors of train accidents often suffer severe, long-term, and even permanent injuries, including broken bones, fractured neck, spinal cord injury, head trauma, traumatic brain injury, and other debilitating conditions. When victims suffer injuries or death, damages can mount quickly. Medical bills lost wages, and other costs and expenses can continue for years.
New Jersey Train Accident FAQs
What about personal injuries suffered on rail platforms or in rail stations?
In addition to accidents involving trains, personal injuries occur in rail stations and on rail platforms. The entities operating these stations and platforms must keep the premises safe and secure and provide adequate warnings about dangerous conditions on platforms, stairs, and walkways.
How long do I have to file a claim?
A statute of limitations is a law that governs how long a victim has to file a civil claim. Statutes of limitations vary by jurisdiction and nature of the claim. These statutes also vary depending on whether the defendant is a public or private entity. Our experienced train accident lawyers will make sure that your case is filed in a timely manner.
Need Legal Counsel? Contact New Jersey Train Accident Lawyer
Our experienced train accident attorneys can help you navigate the complicated legal arena surrounding a train accident and pursue the damages caused by the responsible parties, including government entities, railroad operators, and insurance companies.
If you need legal assistance in a train accident in New Jersey, please contact our experienced new jersey injury lawyers. Sign up for a consultation and get help as soon as possible.