Looking for a Trusted Attorney After a Railroad Accident?
Railroad accidents are among the most catastrophic and complex transportation-related incidents. Whether involving pedestrians, motorists, railroad employees, or passengers, the consequences of a train accident can be devastating, often leading to life-altering injuries or fatalities. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our seasoned attorneys understand the unique challenges victims face after a railroad accident. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a train-related crash, our railroad accident lawyers in Houston are here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
As a trusted car accident lawyer Houston residents rely on, our team brings decades of experience to complex transportation accidents, including those involving railroads and trains. We are equipped to represent the powerful interests of major rail corporations, insurance providers, and government entities, all while prioritizing your recovery and rights.
Railroad Accident Statistics and Legal Landscape in Houston, TX
Houston’s extensive rail network, with nearly 800 miles of track and over 2,500 railroad crossings, experiences approximately 65 to 80 train-related accidents annually. The city’s position as a significant rail hub, connecting Gulf Coast ports to national networks, creates an elevated risk. Harris County consistently ranks among Texas’s top three counties for railroad incidents.
Grade crossing collisions account for roughly 40% of these accidents, with hotspots including crossings along the East Belt Subdivision and Union Pacific’s Glidden Subdivision. Pedestrian trespasser incidents represent another 35%, frequently occurring near residential areas and homeless encampments adjacent to Fifth Ward and East End rail yards.
Texas law requires railroads to maintain reasonable safety measures at crossings, including functioning signals and adequate sight lines. Comparative negligence principles apply, allowing recovery when plaintiffs are less than 51% responsible. Federal preemption under the Railroad Safety Act significantly complicates litigation, often preventing state claims regarding federally regulated safety aspects.
The complex interplay between federal regulations and state tort law creates unique legal challenges. Successful claims typically require counsel familiar with federal preemption doctrines and railroad operations. Damages in railroad crossing cases often exceed those in typical auto accidents due to the potential for catastrophic injuries, with recent Houston settlements ranging from $750,000 to $4 million, depending on liability factors and evidence of safety violations.
What Causes Railroad Accidents in Houston, TX?
Railroad accidents are not as frequent as car accidents, but the consequences can be catastrophic when they occur. Some of the most common causes of train and railroad accidents in Houston include:
Human error, including operator fatigue, distraction, or negligence, is one of the leading causes of train crashes.
Defective equipment: Faulty brakes, signals, or communication systems can cause derailments and collisions.
Track issues: Poor maintenance, broken rails, or track debris can lead to accidents.
Vehicle-train collisions: Cars stalled or crossing at unsafe times at railway crossings often result in deadly crashes.
Signal failure: Malfunctioning lights or gates at crossings can mislead drivers and pedestrians.
Our experienced railroad accident attorneys in Houston have handled cases involving both public and private rail systems, and we possess the resources to investigate the cause of the crash thoroughly.
Types of Railroad Accident Cases We Handle
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our railroad accident attorneys in Houston handle a wide variety of train-related injury claims, including but not limited to:
Pedestrian Accidents at Crossings
Pedestrians are vulnerable at both marked and unmarked crossings. Poor visibility, inadequate warning signals, and high-speed trains increase the risk of fatal incidents.
Vehicle-Trains Collisions
These often occur at crossings where lights, gates, or signs are missing or malfunctioning. Our car accident lawyer team in Houston has experience handling complex vehicle-related claims, including those involving train accidents.
Train Derailments
Track defects, excessive speeds, or mechanical failure can cause derailments. They pose a significant risk to passengers, nearby motorists, and railroad employees.
Railroad Worker Injuries (FELA Claims)
The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) provides protections and compensation rights to railroad workers who are injured. Our Houston railroad accident attorneys assist rail employees in recovering full benefits under this law.
Passenger Injuries on Commuter Trains
Whether riding METRORail or Amtrak, passengers may suffer serious injuries during sudden stops, derailments, or collisions. Our train accident attorneys in Houston are well-versed in the liabilities of common carriers.
What Types of Compensation Are Available After a Railroad Accident?
Train accidents often result in severe, life-altering injuries and overwhelming financial burdens. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our experienced railroad accident attorneys in Houston are committed to helping victims and their families seek full and fair compensation for all aspects of their losses.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to recover damages for:
Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, and any future medical treatments related to the accident.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you’ve already lost and any future loss of earning potential if your ability to return to work is permanently impacted.
Pain and Suffering: Serious accidents often leave victims with chronic pain and lasting physical discomfort. Our Houston train accident lawyers work to ensure these non-economic damages are recognized and compensated.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Train accidents can have profound emotional impacts, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, or loss of enjoyment of life. These intangible damages are an essential part of your recovery.
Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care: Some injuries may require months or even years of rehabilitative therapy, home modifications, or long-term assisted living support. These future needs must be factored into your settlement.
Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was tragically killed in a train accident, our Houston railroad accident attorneys can help surviving family members pursue compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other related damages through a wrongful death claim.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Train Accident?
Determining liability in railroad accidents can be more complex than in typical vehicle collisions. Multiple parties may share responsibility, including:
Railroad companies: For negligent hiring, training, maintenance, or operations.
Train operators: For mistakes, distractions, or failure to follow procedures.
Equipment manufacturers: For defective components.
Track owners: For failing to maintain safe infrastructure.
Government entities: If public transportation systems are involved.
Our train accident attorneys in Houston conduct thorough investigations to uncover all responsible parties and hold them accountable for your losses.
Why Choose Hollingsworth Law Firm After a Railroad Accident In Houston, TX
When it comes to serious personal injuries, especially those involving trains or railway systems, you need experience on your side. Our team of railroad accident attorneys in Houston boasts years of proven success in handling complex injury claims, including those involving catastrophic and wrongful death cases. We understand both the physical trauma and financial burden that can follow a train crash. Whether you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or vehicle driver, taking the proper steps after a train accident is crucial to your health and your legal claim:
Seek immediate medical attention.
Report the accident to the authorities and request a copy of the report.
Document your injuries, damaged property, and accident scene (if safe).
Do not speak with railroad representatives or insurance adjusters without legal representation.
Contact a qualified Houston railroad accident attorney.
Train accidents are life-changing. Let our skilled legal team help you recover the compensation you need to heal, rebuild, and move forward. Contact Hollingsworth Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation with a leading railroad accident lawyer in Houston’s trust.
We proudly serve victims across Houston and the surrounding areas. Don’t face this battle alone if you’ve been injured in a train accident.
Call 832-430-7712 Hollingsworth Law Firm today and let our experience work for you.
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Testimonials
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant. My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome. I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
JessieFormer Client
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
RossanaFormer Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
AnonymousFormer Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G.Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
SaraFormer Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
AndrewFormer Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V.Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts . overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H.Attorney from Houston, TX
I cannot recommend Steve highly enough. As an attorney, you do not often find yourself in the position of being a client. But because of someone’s negligence, my husband and I found ourselves in need of a personal injury attorney after my husband suffered catastrophic injuries. We were immediately referred to Steve, and we were so lucky we were. Steve is compassionate but also tenacious. We always felt that he had our best interest at heart and was fighting for us. We truly felt that he cared about our case. There was never a time that he was unavailable to talk to us, and always kept us well informed. He has the utmost integrity and also has a vast knowledge of the law. On top of that, his experience is top notch as he has worked on both the defense and plaintiff side. We knew Steve was always tirelessly fighting for us, and a year and a half after my husband was severely injured by a negligent driver, Steve got us a fantastic settlement. I recommend Steve without hesitation.
Madelyn L.Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law. He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E.Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T.Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury. His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H.From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him. He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
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