Railroad accidents can result in serious injuries or even loss of life for those involved, including train crew members, pedestrians, and individuals in vehicles at crossings. Navigating the aftermath of a railroad accident involves complex legal and investigative procedures.

Our legal team is based in Mankato but serves surrounding areas and can be invaluable in collecting evidence in Mankato railroad accident cases. Our railroad injury attorneys can work with investigators and experts to thoroughly document the scene, including taking photographs and videos, gathering witness statements, and collecting relevant physical evidence to construct a thorough case for compensation.

Liability in Railroad Accident Cases

To establish liability in a railroad accident case, it is crucial to prove negligence. This means showing that the responsible party failed to exercise reasonable care, directly causing the accident and the resulting damages. If a railroad accident occurs, determining the parties who are at fault can be a challenging process. Multiple entities may bear responsibility, including railroad companies, train operators, maintenance crews, and even equipment manufacturers.

Numerous forms of evidence can demonstrate liability for victims’ compensation, including:

  • Documentation of train and track maintenance, which can reveal negligence
  • Medical records demonstrating injuries and the extent of their impact on victims
  • Surveillance footage from nearby cameras, if available, can offer an objective perspective of the incident
  • Photographs and videos documenting the accident scene, including signage, signals, obstructions, damage, and injuries
  • Event data recorder (EDR) data, which can provide crucial information about the train’s operation, speed, braking, and horn use
  • Eyewitness testimonies from people who witnessed the accident or can provide information about conditions at the crossing
  • Dispatch records and radio communications, which can provide details about train movements in the period leading up to the crash
  • Police reports, railway company reports, reports from the Federal Railroad Administration, or reports from the National Transportation Safety Board

Your lawyer may also seek expert opinions from accident reconstruction specialists, engineers, and medical experts for valuable insights and analysis.

Determining who is at fault in these cases involves carefully obtaining evidence and considering the factors that contributed to a Mankato train accident. Do not wait to consult with an attorney who is experienced in transportation law and can provide valuable guidance on the legal right to pursue compensation.

What Are Common Railroad Crash Injuries?

Common injuries from railroad accidents include traumatic brain injuries, ranging from concussions to severe brain damage, and spinal cord injuries that can cause nerve damage and paralysis. Musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains, strains, and fractures, are also frequently reported. Heavy equipment can cause amputations and crush injuries, and internal organ damage is also possible due to the force of impact.

Other potential injuries include burns and electrocution from contact with live wires or hot equipment, hearing loss from loud noises, and health issues from exposure to toxins. Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, is also common.

Understanding the common railroad accident injuries is a crucial part of collecting evidence in a Mankato case, as clearly documenting them can strengthen a claim.

Compensation for Railroad Injuries

Compensation may be available for a range of damages, including medical expenses for treatment and care, lost wages due to time off work, and loss of earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected. You may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life due to diminished ability to participate in activities.

If your injuries and damages from a railway accident in Mankato are severe, you may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit after assembling all the evidence against the negligent parties. Consulting with an attorney with experience handling railroad accident cases is crucial to maximizing the chances of a successful claim.

Hire a Mankato Lawyer To Help Collect Evidence in a Railroad Accident Case

Collecting evidence in Mankato railroad accident cases shortly after an accident is essential. Railroad companies often prioritize resuming operations quickly after an accident, which can inadvertently lead to the destruction of valuable evidence.

Our attorneys can issue a notice to the railroad company, preventing the destruction or removal of critical evidence related to the accident. If you or someone you love has been injured in a railway accident, do not hesitate to contact Maschka Personal Injury to request your free case review.