Potential Injuries on the Train

Monday, March 16, 2020

Potential Injuries on the Train

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Chicago, Illinois has always been a railroad town, and commuter trains, CTA, Amtrak, and Metra trains are extremely common modes of transportation in the greater Chicago area. With a large number of rail lines in and around Chicago, however, comes the increased likelihood of train accidents and injuries. In fact, being involved in a serious train accident can cause disruption to your life for many weeks or months, during which time you may have to seek medical treatment for your injuries, undergo physical therapy, and miss time away from your job. 

If you have been injured in a Chicago-area train accident, it is important that you seek legal help right away. The Chicago train accident lawyers at Malman Law are prepared to help you bring a claim or lawsuit and pursue economic and noneconomic damages for the injuries which you suffered in your accident.  

Please call us today at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online to learn more about how we can assist you with bringing a personal injury claim or filing a lawsuit. 

Common Causes of Chicago Train Accidents 

Train accidents in and around Chicago may occur for a number of different reasons. Some of the most common reasons why these accidents occur include the following:

1. Slip and falls that occur in a train car
2. Oily, greasy, or wet train car floors or station platforms
3. Insufficient or negligent train maintenance
4. Negligence on the part of the train operator, including cases where the operator violates posted train speed limits
5. Train inspection violations that are not corrected in a timely manner
6. Negligent drivers who stop on railroad tracks at grade crossings, causing trains to collide with them

Common Injuries Suffered in a Train Accident

Individuals who are involved in a train accident can suffer serious injuries, depending largely upon the circumstances of the accident and how it happened. Some of the most common injuries suffered by victims of Chicago train accidents include the following:

1. Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
2. Multiple fractures
3. Traumatic head and brain injuries
4. Cuts and lacerations
5. Burns
6. Bruising

Taking Legal Action against a Common Carrier

Trains in Chicago, along with buses, are examples of common carriers. Common carriers owe a high duty of care to their passengers. Specifically, they are required to constantly inspect, and if necessary, repair train engines and cars, look for hidden defects on trains and along rail lines, and hire individuals (including train operators and conductors) who are experienced and who are properly trained. If the carrier breaches any of these duties and a train accident results, then the injured person or persons may be able to file an insurance claim or lawsuit against the carrier. 

Speak with a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you have been injured in a train accident that caused you injuries, the legal team at Malman Law can help you explore all of your available legal options. To schedule a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Chicago personal injury attorney, please call us at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online to learn more.