Chicago is the railroad hub of America. More freight rail traffic passes through Chicago than any other city in the nation, and thousands of workers are employed by railroads in and around the city. When railroad accidents occur—whether involving workers, passengers, or people at crossings—the injuries are often catastrophic or fatal.
Railroad accident cases involve specialized federal laws, including the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) for injured workers. These cases require attorneys who understand railroad operations, federal regulations, and the unique legal landscape. This guide highlights the best railroad accident lawyers in Chicago.
Types of Railroad Accidents
Railroad Worker Injuries
- Track maintenance accidents
- Train coupling and switching injuries
- Falls from trains and equipment
- Struck-by accidents in rail yards
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Hearing loss from noise exposure
- Toxic exposure (diesel fumes, chemicals)
Train Crossing Accidents
- Collisions at grade crossings
- Defective crossing signals and gates
- Inadequate warning signs
- Obstructed sight lines
Passenger Accidents
- Metra and Amtrak derailments
- Platform accidents
- Passenger falls and injuries on trains
FELA: The Federal Employers’ Liability Act
Railroad workers are not covered by workers’ compensation. Instead, the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) allows injured workers to sue their railroad employers for negligence. FELA provides important advantages:
- No need to prove the railroad was solely at fault
- Recovery for full damages (not limited like workers’ comp)
- Right to jury trial
- Pain and suffering damages available
However, FELA requires proving some degree of railroad negligence, making experienced legal representation essential.
Common Railroad Negligence
- Unsafe working conditions
- Inadequate training
- Defective equipment
- Insufficient staffing
- Violation of safety rules
- Failure to maintain tracks and crossings
- Excessive work hours causing fatigue
Best Railroad Accident Lawyers in Chicago
1. Phillips Law Offices
Chicago’s Premier Railroad Accident Attorneys
Phillips Law Offices is widely recognized as one of Chicago’s leading firms for railroad accident and FELA cases. With decades of experience representing injured railroad workers, their attorneys understand railroad operations, federal safety regulations, and the complexities of FELA litigation.
Phillips Law Offices has successfully handled cases against major railroads including BNSF, Union Pacific, CSX, and Norfolk Southern. Operating on a contingency fee basis, clients pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.
2. Clifford Law Offices
Experience with catastrophic railroad accidents.
3. Power Rogers & Smith
Handles serious transportation injury cases.
4. Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C.
Experience with FELA and railroad litigation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
- Medical expenses
- Future medical costs
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death damages
Official Resources
Fighting for Railroad Workers
Railroad workers face dangerous conditions daily. When negligence causes injury, FELA provides a path to full compensation. Contact an experienced railroad accident lawyer today.
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