North Carolina Railroad Accident Lawyer

Serving railroad workers and the public injured in railroad accidents

Railroads and rail crossings are inherently dangerous places for railroad workers. Large train cars, heavy machinery, and long hours can lead to serious and preventable accidents. Even for those who do not work on railroads, train crossings and rail yards are treacherous places that are often poorly maintained. If you have been hurt either on the job or at a rail line through other means, you may be entitled to legal recovery for your injuries.

Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers works with clients in North Carolina who have been hurt through the negligence of railroad companies. If you are suffering following an accident or have developed a medical problem from your work at a rail yard, car repair shop, or on a road crew, we can help.

Injuries and illnesses at rail yards

No matter what position you hold, working for a rail company or contractor can be hazardous. However, the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) offers protection to all rail employees, regardless of job title. Conductors, brakemen, trackmen, carmen, and engineers are all equally protected.

FELA allows you to file an injury lawsuit for illnesses within three years from the date of a railroad accident. You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Lung cancer and disease — Dust, fumes, diesel and asbestos or other materials are often encountered in train service or when making repairs to train cars. Damage to your lungs or the onset of lung disease from inadequate safety conditions at a rail or train facility in places like Hamlet or elsewhere may entitle you to compensation.
• Chemical exposure — Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, including very common ones found in oil, can result in severe nervous system damage and other serious conditions.
• Broken bones — Workers who must deal with heavy rail equipment and areas filled with obstacles or other debris risk painful accidents, including fractures.
• Muscle damage — Even if nothing is broken, unsafe conditions can produce damage to muscles in your back, neck and elsewhere, inhibiting your ability to work and requiring extensive rehabilitation.

Other types of injuries suffered by rail yard workers, track department crafts, and train crews are also eligible for legal recovery.

Railroad crossing accidents are a deadly problem in the Tar Heel State

Raleigh, Rocky Mount, and Hamlet are just a few of North Carolina’s major rail hubs. With so many trains moving through these areas, the chances of a mishap increase. In addition, many of the state’s railroad crossings are in rural areas and are often poorly maintained, presenting a hazard to drivers and others.

The Federal Railroad Administration tracks railroad crossing accidents and documents dozens of people being killed or injured every year. If you or a loved one has been hurt at a train crossing, our attorneys can explain more about the process for legal recovery.

Contact us to find out more about North Carolina law and rail accidents

Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers handles personal injury cases related to railroad accidents throughout Virginia, North Carolina and West Virginia. Our attorneys include John Cooper, the Chair of the FELA Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice.  Contact us at 757.455.0077 or online for a free case evaluation. Our firm offers contingency fees, so you do not owe us anything until you receive payment.