Common Causes of Railroad Worker Accidents

Railroad workers face numerous hazards daily, including heavy machinery, high-voltage electricity, and dangerous working conditions. Some of the most common causes of railroad accidents include:

• Derailments & Collisions – Defective tracks, faulty equipment, or human error can lead to catastrophic accidents.
• Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards – Uneven surfaces, oil spills, and poor lighting contribute to serious injuries.
• Equipment Malfunctions – Defective tools, machinery, or train components can cause life-altering injuries.
• Exposure to Toxic Chemicals – Railroad workers often handle hazardous materials, leading to long-term health issues.
• Fatigue & Human Error – Railroad companies sometimes push workers to extreme hours, increasing the risk of mistakes.

If your injury resulted from negligence—whether by your employer, a coworker, or a third party—you may be entitled to compensation under FELA.

What Is FELA? Understanding Your Rights as a Railroad Worker

Unlike standard workers’ compensation, railroad employees are covered under the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA), a federal law that allows injured workers to sue their employers for negligence. To succeed in a FELA claim, you must prove that:

1. The railroad company was negligent (failed to provide a safe workplace, proper training, or adequate equipment).
2. This negligence contributed to your injury.

FELA provides compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Since FELA claims are complex, having a skilled railroad worker accident attorney in Sonoma is crucial to building a strong case.

Why Choose Flahavan Law for Your Railroad Injury Claim?

At Flahavan Law, we are committed to fighting for injured railroad workers in Sonoma and throughout California. Here’s why our clients trust us:

1. Deep Knowledge of Railroad Injury Laws: FELA claims require a thorough understanding of federal regulations and railroad industry standards. Our attorneys have the expertise to investigate your accident, gather evidence, and hold negligent parties accountable.
2. Aggressive Advocacy for Maximum Compensation: Railroad companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. We know their tactics and will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
3. Personalized Legal Representation: Every railroad injury case is unique. We take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your needs.
4. No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

What to Do After a Railroad Work Injury

If you’ve been injured on the job, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Your health comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions (like internal bleeding or concussions) may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report the Accident – Notify your employer in writing as soon as possible. Failure to report promptly could hurt your claim.
3. Document Everything – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any defective equipment. Keep copies of medical records and incident reports.
4. Avoid Giving Statements to Railroad Investigators – Railroad companies may try to use your words against you. Consult an attorney before speaking with them.
5. Contact a Railroad Worker Accident Attorney – The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your case will be.

Contact Flahavan Law Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured while working on the railroad, don’t wait to seek legal help. The railroad worker accident attorneys at Flahavan Law are here to guide you through the process and fight for the justice you deserve.