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New York
Train Accident Lawyer
New York City’s busy transit system sees frequent train accidents—whether on the subway, at crossings, or on platforms. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact Field Law Group, P.C. to understand your legal rights and options.
Train Accident FAQs
After a train accident, prioritize getting medical attention for any injuries. If you can, gather contact information from witnesses, take photos of the scene, and get a copy of the police report. Then, contact our experienced attorneys right away to protect your legal rights.
Depending on your case, you might get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our attorneys will work hard to maximize your claim and ensure you get the full financial recovery you deserve.
In the aftermath of a train accident, the following individuals may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit, including:
- Passengers: If you're a passenger on a train at the time of the accident and suffer injuries, you may be entitled to compensation from the transit agency or other responsible parties.
- Pedestrians: People struck by a train or injured while on the platform can also pursue legal action.
- Motorists: Drivers and passengers in vehicles involved in a collision with a train may be able to claim damages.
- Bystanders: Even individuals who weren't directly involved in the accident but suffered injuries or property damages can potentially file a lawsuit.
- Surviving Family Members: In the tragic event of a fatality, the deceased's family members may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Any negligent party responsible for causing your accident may be held liable under New York State law. That might include:
- Train Operators: If the train operator's negligence, such as distracted driving, speeding, or impairment contributed to the accident, they and their employer may be held liable.
- Transit Agencies: As common carriers, transit agencies like MTA are held to a higher standard to ensure passenger safety. They can be liable for accidents caused by factors like poor track maintenance, faulty equipment, or inadequate safety protocols.
- Third-Party Entities: Other parties, such as manufacturers of defective train parts, maintenance contractors, or even other drivers or pedestrians, may also share liability if their negligence played a role in the accident.
- Government Agencies: Government agencies responsible for overseeing rail safety and infrastructure may be partially liable for accidents.
Those responsible for your injuries may be backed by powerful attorneys who know how to fight these claims. Hiring an experienced law firm can help level the playing field and influence the outcome of your case.
Yes, New York has a strict timeline for filing a lawsuit after a train accident. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to take legal action.
However, the deadlines are shorter if the accident involves a government entity like the MTA. You must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days. This step is necessary before you can sue! After filing, the agency has 30 days to request a hearing and start negotiations. If no settlement is reached, you have one year and 90 days from the accident date to file a lawsuit.
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What Causes
New York Train Accidents?
What Causes New York Train Accidents?
Train and subway accidents can happen for different reasons, many of which are due to the negligence of the transit agencies, train operators, or other parties. Some of the most common causes include:
Outdated Infrastructure & Equipment
New York's subway system, one of the oldest in the world, has lines dating back to the early 1900s. Aging tracks, signals, and infrastructure can malfunction, causing derailments and collisions.
Operator Error
Train operators must drive safely and follow protocols. Distractions, impairment, or lack of training can lead to critical mistakes and accidents.
Maintenance Failures
Transit agencies need to regularly inspect and maintain trains, tracks, and equipment. Neglecting these tasks can create dangerous conditions for passengers.
Third-Party Negligence
Accidents can also occur due to the negligence of others, like motorists who don't yield at railroad crossings or pedestrians trespassing on tracks.
Mechanical Malfunctions
Even modern trains can have mechanical issues, such as brake failures or engine problems, leading to derailments or collisions.
What Does a Train Accident Lawyer Do?
Train accidents can be complicated, with multiple parties potentially responsible. Handling the legal aspects on your own can be overwhelming, especially when you're injured. That's where a skilled train accident attorney comes in.
Your lawyer will manage every part of your case, including:
- Gather evidence and interview witnesses
- Investigate the accident to determine liability
- Consult experts to value your damages and build a strong case
- Minimize claims that you share responsibility for the accident
- Negotiate for a fair settlement and take your case to court, if necessary
We Handle All Types of NYC Train Accident Cases
The attorneys at Field Law Group have extensive experience representing clients in a wide range of train accident cases throughout New York City and the surrounding areas. We’re prepared to take on cases involving:
- Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Accidents
- Amtrak Accidents
- Long Island Railroad (LIRR) Accidents
- Metro-North Accidents
- Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH) Train Accidents
- Subway Accidents
- Freight Train Accidents
Millions Recovered For Our Clients!
No Fees Unless We Get You Compensation.
Contact Our New York Personal Injury Lawyers Today!
For years, we've provided New York City personal injury litigation services for motorcycle injuries, car accidents, and much more.
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