Railroad accidents in Indiana can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. These accidents may involve train derailments, collisions with vehicles at railroad crossings, mechanical failures, or negligent railway maintenance. 

Railroad workers, passengers, and pedestrians are all at risk when railway companies fail to uphold proper safety standards. Given the high-speed impact and immense force of trains, victims of railroad accidents may suffer life-altering injuries, resulting in mounting medical bills, loss of wages, and prolonged pain and suffering.

Discover the difference the right railroad accident law firm Indiana can make to your case. At Wagner Reese, LLP, we believe that maximizing compensation depends on the attorneys you choose. We know that railroad companies and insurers will fight to minimize payouts, and we have the resources to level the playing field. 

Our Indiana personal injury lawyers have successfully recovered over $300 million in verdicts and settlements, ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they’re owed. When the stakes are the highest, contact Wagner Reese for the aggressive legal representation you need to take on powerful railroads and insurance carriers.

Photo of Railroad Accicent

Causes of Railroad Accidents in Indiana

Some of the common causes of railroad accidents include:

  • Human Error: Train operators may cause accidents due to fatigue, distraction, inexperience, or impairment.
  • Defective Tracks: Poorly maintained tracks, broken rails, or misaligned switches can lead to derailments.
  • Signal Malfunctions: Faulty or missing signals at crossings can prevent drivers and pedestrians from receiving proper warnings.
  • Mechanical Failures: Defective brakes, engine malfunctions, and other equipment failures can result in crashes.
  • Obstructed Crossings: Trains that block crossings for extended periods can create hazardous situations for pedestrians and drivers.
  • Negligence at Railroad Crossings: Lack of proper warning signs, lights, or barriers increases the risk of accidents.
  • Speeding Trains: Trains exceeding speed limits may be unable to stop in time to prevent collisions.

Potential Liable Parties in Railroad Accidents

Determining liability in a railroad accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible for the crash. Potentially liable parties include:

  • Railroad Companies: Responsible for maintaining tracks, ensuring safe operations, and properly training employees.
  • Train Operators: Can be held liable for errors such as distracted or reckless operation of the train.
  • Manufacturers: Defective train parts, braking systems, or signals may indicate liability on the part of the manufacturer.
  • Government Entities: If poor track maintenance or inadequate safety measures are involved, local or federal agencies may be responsible.
  • Drivers or Pedestrians: If a person ignores crossing signals or trespasses on tracks, they may be partially at fault.
  • Maintenance Contractors: Companies responsible for maintaining tracks, crossings, or train equipment may be liable if their negligence contributed to the accident.

Federal and Indiana Laws Related to Railroad Accidents

Railroad accidents in Indiana are governed by both federal and state laws designed to protect public safety and regulate railroad operations.

  • Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA): Protects railroad workers by allowing them to sue their employer for injuries caused by negligence.
  • Federal Railroad Safety Act (FRSA): Establishes safety standards for railroad operations, equipment, and track maintenance.
  • Rail Safety Improvement Act (RSIA): Requires implementation of advanced safety technologies such as positive train control (PTC) to prevent collisions.
  • Indiana Railroad Crossing Laws: Mandate that all public crossings must have appropriate warning signals and that trains must adhere to speed limits in urban areas.
  • Indiana Comparative Fault Rule: If a victim is found partially at fault for a railroad accident, their compensation may be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

How Our Indiana Railroad Accident Attorneys Prove Liability

At Wagner Reese, LLP, we build strong cases by collecting critical evidence to prove negligence in railroad accident claims. Key evidence may include:

  • Train Black Box Data: Records speed, braking, and operational details that may reveal negligence.
  • Surveillance Footage: Video evidence from stations, crossings, or nearby businesses can help prove how the accident occurred.
  • Maintenance Records: Ensuring that the railroad company properly maintained tracks, signals, and equipment.
  • Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from passengers, drivers, or bystanders can provide firsthand accounts of the accident.
  • Accident Reconstruction Reports: Expert analysis helps determine how and why the crash happened.
  • Train Operator Records: Reviewing the operator’s history, training, and compliance with regulations.
  • Medical Records: Documenting the severity of injuries and their long-term impact on the victim’s life.

Get Representation from Our Top-Rated Railroad Injury Lawyers in Indiana

If you or a loved one has been injured in a railroad accident in Indiana, you need a powerhouse legal team that has the experience, reputation, and resources to take on major railroad companies and their insurers. 

At Wagner Reese, our award-winning attorneys have been recognized among the nation’s top legal professionals. Reach out to us today—you owe nothing unless we win your case. To schedule your free consultation, call us at (866) 991-4892 or contact us online.