Westbury Railroad Accident Lawyer
Injuries resulting from railroad accidents can be catastrophic or even fatal, and the ensuing emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming for victims and their families. Whether you were a passenger or a railroad worker who suffered injuries in an accident involving a train, an experienced personal injury attorney may be able to evaluate your situation and protect your rights during your pursuit of compensation.
If you were hurt in an accident on the LIRR, MTA, Amtrak, or Metro North, you may be able to hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence. A Westbury railroad accident lawyer could answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you build a claim for damages against potentially liable parties.
Westbury Railway Incidents
Whether a train collides with a car or a person, derails and injures passengers, or crashes into another train, the results can be disastrous. The speed, weight, and mass of an average train exceed that of most passenger vehicles, so severe injuries and excessive property damage typically result when a motor vehicle is struck by a train.
Railroad accidents can involve commuter, long-distance passenger, and/or freight trains, but the extent of damage which a railway accident may cause can increase greatly in densely populated urban areas. A skilled local attorney could examine the situation that led to a railroad accident as well as the scope of harm to determine the viability of a potential claim for damages.
Railroad Accident Claims
Railroad accident cases can vary greatly and may lead to complex litigation invoking both state and federal regulations. Train operators have a duty to keep their passengers safe, and failure to do so can amount to substantial liability. For example, a motor vehicle driver may have a valid claim if they are struck by a train while crossing railroad tracks because of defective signals or unresponsive barricades.
Additionally, railroad employees may suffer injuries while working or traveling on trains, regardless of whether they are driving, loading cars, or performing maintenance. Fortunately, the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) allows railway workers to pursue compensation for injuries sustained on the job. Claims for damages may be brought against responsible third parties and employers.
In either type of scenario, navigating the claims system for railroad injuries can be challenging. Fortunately, a knowledgeable railroad accident lawyer in Westbury could offer guidance on how to increase a claim’s chances for success.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
There are strict time limits on when an injured party may file a railroad accident claim. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in a claimant being barred from pursuing any claims for compensation, so it may be crucial to retain legal counsel as soon as possible. The dismissal of a claim can leave an injured person without the means to pay their medical bills, so it is advisable to enlist the help of a dedicated Westbury lawyer who has experience with railroad accident cases sooner rather than later.
Contact a Westbury Railroad Accident Attorney for Advice
If you are recovering from severe injuries which you sustained in an accident involving the LIRR, MTA, Amtrak, or Metro North, you may need assistance from a strong legal advocate who can protect your rights during litigation. A compassionate Westbury railroad accident lawyer could help you hold negligent parties accountable for causing what may have been an otherwise avoidable accident. To learn more about your legal rights, schedule an initial consultation today.