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Chattanooga FELA Railroad Injury Attorneys
Protecting Railroad Accident Victims in East Tennessee
When a railroad accident occurs, the impacts can be severe and life-changing. If you or a loved one has been involved in a railroad accident in Chattanooga, it’s essential to understand your rights and the legal avenues available to you. Railroad workers face unique hazards daily, and when accidents happen, the consequences can be devastating. Whether it’s a collision, derailment, or a slip and fall on the tracks, the injuries sustained can be severe. In Tennessee, the Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) offers specific protections and legal options for railroad workers injured on the job.
When Can You Sue For a Railroad Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a railroad accident, you might be entitled to compensation under FELA. Unlike typical workers’ compensation claims, FELA provides broader protections for railroad workers because of the oftentimes uniquely dangerous nature of working on the railroad.
Filing a FELA Accident Claim
To file a FELA accident claim, you must demonstrate that the railroad company was negligent and that this negligence directly caused your injury. This might involve proving that the company failed to maintain safe working conditions, didn’t properly train employees, or neglected equipment maintenance. Unlike workers' compensation claims, where fault isn’t usually a factor, FELA requires proving the employer’s negligence.
Determining Liability in Your Case
Determining liability in a railroad accident can be complex. It involves investigating the circumstances of the accident, examining workplace conditions, and reviewing company practices. Our FELA lawsuit attorneys at Wettermark Keith will work meticulously to establish the fault of the railroad company and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Under FELA, compensation can cover a range of damages, including:
Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills related to the injury, such as surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and doctor visits.
Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost due to time off work, as well as future lost earning capacity if the injury prevents you from returning to your previous job.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional distress caused by the injury.
Disability: If the injury results in permanent disability or impairment, you may be entitled to additional compensation for the long-term effects on your life.
Loss of Quality of Life: Compensation for the diminished enjoyment of life or inability to perform everyday tasks or activities you once enjoyed.
Wrongful Death: In cases where the injury leads to death, family members may be able to recover damages for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and emotional suffering.
Your railroad accident claim lawyer will be able to evaluate the unique circumstances surrounding your case and give you an idea of what compensation you might be able to receive, but there are no guarantees.
How is FELA Different Than Workers Compensation Laws?
FELA differs significantly from traditional workers’ compensation laws. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning you don’t need to prove negligence to receive benefits. In contrast, FELA requires proving that your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury. However, FELA also allows for more substantial damages compared to workers' compensation.
Common Types Of Railroad Injuries
Railroad injuries can vary widely depending on the nature of the accident and the role of the injured worker. Common injuries include:
Falls: Due to slippery tracks or poorly maintained work areas.
Crush Injuries: Often from equipment malfunctions or collisions.
Burns: From hazardous materials or engine fires.
Musculoskeletal Injuries: Such as strains and sprains from heavy lifting or repetitive motions.
Head Injuries: Resulting from falls or accidents involving moving parts.
Electrical Injuries: Risk of shocks, electrocution, or burns from faulty wiring or power surges.
Amputations: Often caused by crush injuries or equipment malfunctions.
Wrongful Death: Fatal accidents, often resulting from severe collisions, equipment failures, or hazardous working conditions.
FELA Statute of Limitation Time Frame
Under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), cases are governed by federal law rather than state statutes. This means that, regardless of where the accident occurs, you have a strict time limit of three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries, so it's crucial to act quickly and consult with an attorney who specializes in FELA cases to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Our 3-Step Process
Connect With Us:
Call our office at (877) 715-9300 or use our online form to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our Chattanooga legal team.
We Assess Your Case
In our initial review, our experienced Chattanooga team will analyze the details of your case and map out potential strategies. If you've experienced an injury due to negligence, we’ll assign one of our expert personal injury attorneys to handle your case.
We Defend Your Rights
As one of the Southeast’s top personal injury firms, Wettermark Keith is fully committed to advocating for your rightful compensation and recovery. If an injury has disrupted your life, let our dedicated Chattanooga attorneys seek justice on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Federal Employers’ Liability Act (FELA) is a federal law that provides compensation to railroad workers who are injured on the job due to the railroad company’s negligence. It allows injured workers to sue their employer for damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses.
FELA lawyers handle a range of railroad accidents, including train collisions, derailments, equipment failures, and workplace falls. They also deal with injuries caused by unsafe working conditions or employer negligence.
In the United States, FELA cases are not governed by state statutes of limitations. Instead, these lawsuits are managed at the federal level and must be filed within three years of the accident. Contact an experienced train accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss this deadline.
Compensation in a FELA case can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future earnings, disability benefits, loss of quality of life, and wrongful death. The amount depends on the severity of the injury, the impact on the worker's ability to return to work, and the extent of the emotional and physical suffering caused by the accident. Each case is unique, and the total compensation will vary based on the specific circumstances involved.
A FELA lawyer can assist by investigating your case, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court. They ensure your rights are protected and help you secure the maximum compensation possible.
No Recovery, No Fee - Guarantee
At Wettermark Keith, we understand the challenges railroad workers face after an accident on the job, and seeking justice shouldn’t add to your financial burden. That’s why our experienced railroad injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We handle all upfront legal costs, and only collect from your settlement or verdict once your case is successfully resolved. If we don’t secure compensation for your injuries, you owe us nothing. This allows you to focus on recovering, while we focus on fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help?
If you’ve been injured in a railroad accident in Chattanooga or anywhere in Tennessee, a personal injury attorney with experience in these types of cases can be crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. They will thoroughly investigate the specifics of your accident, gathering key evidence such as safety violations, maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts. Attorneys who understand both Tennessee law and the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) can expertly navigate the legal system to your advantage.
Railroad companies often have strong legal teams, but a skilled Tennessee accident attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. If a settlement can't be reached, they are prepared to take your case to court. By hiring a personal injury attorney familiar with railroad accidents and FELA claims, you’ll have a strong advocate in your corner, allowing you to focus on your recovery while they fight for your rights.
Call Wettermark Keith Today for Your Free Legal Consultation
Our firm’s roots are deeply connected to handling railroad accident cases. With years of experience representing injured railroad workers throughout Chattanooga, Tennessee, and beyond, we have a deep understanding of the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) and the complexities of railroad injury claims. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t face this battle alone—call Wettermark Keith today for a free consultation, and let us put our railroad injury expertise to work for you.
Wettermark Keith was extremely professional and helpful. This personal injury law firm helped my husband over 10 years ago when he fell and broke his foot on vacation. I called them first because I liked their TV commercials. They are very nice people and I would call them again if I needed a lawyer.
- Juanita
Law firm Wettermark Keith has exceeded my expectations! I recommend these lawyers to anyone and everyone I come across. Their commitment to their clients is outstanding. Communication is easy. And I got my settlement very fast. I definitely recommend working with Lee Hawker. He is very gracious and kind. He looked out for me and my family and went above and beyond for us. I’m very grateful!
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I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mark English at Wettermark Keith law firm after my car accident in December 2021. He was very thorough in everything, did a wonderful job of explaining everything that was happening, and was super easy to get in touch with when I needed him. I never had a question that was left unanswered by this lawyer. He's very kind and patient, and he made the personal injury claims process so easy for me. I absolutely recommend him, it was a pleasure working with him!
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