Train Wrecks

Train Accident Attorney in Houston, TX

At the Harris County Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we understand the unique complexities involved in railroad accidents. Although less frequent than car accidents, the consequences of train accidents can be devastating, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities due to the significant mass and dynamics of train travel. In areas like Houston, TX, where approximately 2,200 trains travel within the Houston Regional Rail Network per week and throughout Harris County where there are even more, the risks at railroad crossings and on commuter trains are higher than you might think.

Our team, composed of seasoned personal injury attorneys, is dedicated to championing your rights and securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.

When disaster strikes, contact a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Attorney like Steven C. Arnold for FREE who will fight for you!

The Risks of Train Travel and Crossing Accidents

Passengers in trains often move freely about the coaches, standing or walking without the safety of seat belts. This can lead to severe motion or blunt force injuries, such as whiplash, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Not just passengers are at risk; motor vehicles and pedestrians at railroad crossings in Harris County also face significant dangers.

Despite technological advancements, safety improvements in America’s railway systems have stagnated over the past decades. The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Railroad Administration highlight a troubling persistence in accidents, particularly at unprotected crossings and due to human errors, including distracted train operators or drivers attempting to outrun trains.

Common Examples of Train Accidents in Houston

Mechanical and Electrical Failures: Faulty signals and switches can misguide trains onto occupied tracks or incorrect paths, leading to catastrophic collisions.

Track and Maintenance Issues: Poorly maintained or inherently flawed track designs can cause derailments at high speeds.

Human Error: Distractions from mobile devices or other non-operational tasks can result in critical mistakes from both train operators and motorists.

Mechanical and Electrical Failures: Faulty signals and switches can misguide trains onto occupied tracks or incorrect paths, leading to catastrophic collisions. Electrical injuries might also occur due to malfunctions or improper handling of equipment.

Track and Maintenance Issues: Poorly maintained or inherently flawed track designs can cause derailments at high speeds. Issues such as train car detachments and lost cargo loads can also arise from poor maintenance practices.

Human Error: Distractions from mobile devices or other non-operational tasks can lead to critical mistakes from both train operators and motorists. This category also includes the risk of accidents such as slip, trip, and fall incidents on trains, and worker injuries due to lack of focus or procedural non-compliance.

Train Derailments and Collisions: These can be the result of a variety of factors including mechanical failures, human error, and poor track conditions. They represent some of the most severe risks in rail transport.

Hazardous Incidents: This includes hazardous waste accidents, which can occur during the transport of chemically dangerous materials, and fires or explosions, which may result from the mishandling of flammable materials or mechanical faults.

Workplace Accidents: Workers can be struck by moving objects, suffer from falls, or receive electrical shocks while performing maintenance or during everyday operations, highlighting the need for stringent safety protocols.

Criminal Acts: Security issues such as theft, vandalism, or other forms of criminal interference can affect railway safety and operations, neglecting safety and inspection can result in injury.

What You Need to Know About Train Accident Law in Houston, TX

If you've been involved in a train accident in Houston, TX, it's crucial to understand the complexities of train accident lawsuits and how they differ from other personal injury cases. Train accidents often involve multiple plaintiffs and can result in significant legal proceedings that require the expertise of Houston train accident lawyers.

Filing a Lawsuit

A train accident lawsuit typically begins with the filing of a complaint in the jurisdiction where the accident occurred. The defendants, usually the train company and their insurers, are then required to respond, setting the stage for a legal battle. Not all personal injury lawyers in Houston are well-versed in handling train accident cases, Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec is.

Discovery and Trial

Following the initial complaint, both sides engage in a discovery period, exchanging evidence and preparing for trial. This phase is critical and victims of train accidents can benefit greatly with the help of Board-Certified Injury Attorneys. Our attorneys are experienced in going to trial and understand the intricacies of evidence and trial procedures. The process culminates in a trial where, after hearing all evidence, a jury decides on the verdict and, if applicable, the compensation amount. However, most cases do not go to trial.

Caps on Settlements

It's important to note that since 1997, federal law has capped the damages for train accident victims at $200 million. Despite this, damages in some accidents have exceeded this amount, often leaving plaintiffs undercompensated. We can navigate these limitations to help secure the maximum compensation available under the law.

Special Considerations for Railroad Employees

Railroad employees injured on the job must follow a different process governed by The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), which does not adhere to the usual liability caps and can sometimes facilitate recovery. Having a skilled personal injury attorney in Houston can be pivotal in these cases.

What’s the Statute of Limitations for Train Accidents in Texas?

Texas law mandates a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including train accidents. It is vital to engage a personal injury attorney promptly to ensure your lawsuit is filed within this timeframe to preserve your right to compensation. Even if the statute of limitations has expired, negotiations for a settlement might still be possible to resolve the matter discreetly and avoid embarrassment for the responsible parties.

For the best legal support and guidance in train accident cases in Houston, consider contacting our Houston train accident lawyers who are board-certified and have a proven track record in personal injury law. Their expertise can be your greatest asset in navigating the complexities of these legal battles and achieving the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec?

As Board-Certified Personal Injury Attorneys, we are equipped to handle complex cases that may require going to trial. Our team specializes in the intricacies of train accident litigation and is committed to holding negligent parties accountable, seeking justice and compensation for injuries, and ensuring preventative measures for future safety.

As one of the top train accident lawyers in Houston, TX, we make it easy for you to get the compensation you need by offering:

No-Cost Initial Consultation: Understand your rights and the potential for compensation with a free initial assessment of your case.

Contingency Fee Basis: With Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our commitment is to your recovery, both physical and financial.

Local Focused: While we are Houston train accident lawyers, our practice extends county wide throughout Harris County, Texas, we understand the local area and laws to better serve you, unlike national law firms.

Start Your Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a train accident in Houston, it’s crucial to speak with an attorney who is deeply familiar with this type of litigation. For residents of Harris County, TX, the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec offers the personal injury attorneys with dedication and expertise necessary to navigate these challenging cases.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call us at 281-962-8949 to schedule a free consultation and start your journey towards justice and the compensation you deserve. or contact us online. We are here to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.