If you’ve been injured in a train accident, it’s possible that you’re eligible to be compensated for medical bills, wage loss, pain and suffering, and more. If the engineer, train company or another party is responsible, you may have a case.
In order to ensure that you stay safe and receive the benefits you deserve, there are several steps you should take immediately following your accident. Below, you’ll learn more about the steps you can take and how they can help your case.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Train Accident
The top priority after a train accident is to seek medical attention for any injuries you’ve sustained. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe or you aren’t sure if you are injured, it’s important to see a physician or go to the hospital. A medical professional can diagnose injuries you may not know you have and treat them. They’ll also take notes that will improve your chances of receiving compensation.
If you are not severely injured, take photographs at the accident scene. Also take photos of any injuries. Finally, take down names and phone numbers of witnesses and make sure you call the police to report the accident. If you are too injured to do this, ask someone to do it for you.
Steps to Take In the Days After a Train Accident
The days and weeks after your train accident are especially important. If you were injured and require additional medical treatment, keep track of how much you paid and what happened at each appointment. Make notes about your pain level, medical treatments, test results, how much work you missed, and any additional expenses you incurred because of your injuries. This will help your lawyer at a later date. Also avoid missing appointments, as this can negatively affect your lawsuit if you decide to file one.
Avoid speaking with the other party’s insurance company until after you’ve talked to a lawyer.
Contacting a Lawyer
Many people avoid contacting a lawyer after a train accident because of the possible cost, but it’s important to know that many personal injury lawyers don’t collect fees unless they win your case. Often it will be difficult to receive compensation for loss of wages, pain and suffering, housekeeping and other expenses without retaining a lawyer who has the expertise to gather evidence and work with insurance companies.
It’s also worth speaking to a lawyer because most consultations are free. During a consultation, you’ll learn more about your rights and find out whether you have a case.
If you’re unsure whether or not to contact a lawyer because you aren’t sure if another party is responsible, ask yourself whether someone could have prevented your accident from happening. If defective equipment, tracks or property were the cause, a railroad manager, engineer, supervisor or employee may be responsible.
Not only will a personal injury lawyer help you determine which parties are liable, but they will assist you in locating witnesses, gathering and investigating evidence, and finding expert witnesses who will support your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, book a free consultation with a train accident lawyer.
