Common Cause of Railroad Injuries: Getting on and Off Moving Equipment

---

Every year, numerous railroad workers face injuries that are often overlooked by the general public. One significant cause of these injuries is the seemingly innocuous act of getting on and off moving equipment. It might sound simple, but in the world of railroads, a slight miscalculation can lead to grievous injuries.

Why Getting on and Off Moving Equipment is Risky

The act of boarding or alighting from moving railroad equipment might seem like a routine task for many workers. However, it’s riddled with potential dangers:

Unpredictable Movements: Moving equipment isn’t always steady. Imagine a worker attempting to disembark from a moving train, expecting it to maintain a consistent speed. If the train jerks unexpectedly or changes its speed, the worker could lose their footing. For instance, a worker in New Haven, while attempting to board, was caught off-guard by an unexpected jerk, leading to a severe ankle injury.

Terrain Issues: The ground around tracks isn’t always even or free from obstacles. There might be gravel, wet leaves, oil spills, or other debris that can make the surface slippery or unstable. Consider a worker in Connecticut who tried to get off a moving train onto a patch of wet leaves; he slipped and suffered a back injury, leading to significant railroad back injury settlements.

Heavy Equipment: The massive size and weight of railroad equipment make any contact particularly dangerous. A minor misstep or a slip while attempting to board could lead to a worker getting trapped between the platform and the train or being hit by a protruding part. For example, a worker who misjudged his step while alighting suffered a severe shoulder injury, resulting in substantial railroad shoulder injury settlements.

Limited Handholds and Footing: The design of some railroad equipment doesn’t always prioritize ease of boarding or disembarking. Limited or unstable handholds can lead to workers not having enough grip, and narrow footboards can make finding secure footing challenging.

In light of these risks, it’s clear why getting on and off moving equipment is a leading cause of injuries on railroads. It’s not just about the act itself but the combination of external factors and equipment-related challenges.

Consequences of Such Injuries

Injuries from railroad accidents have multifaceted repercussions. Here’s a more detailed, yet straightforward breakdown of the potential consequences:

Physical Impairments: Beyond immediate injuries like cuts or bruises, some workers face long-term disabilities. Broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries can have lasting effects, hindering mobility and daily activities.

Loss of Income: Inability to work, either temporarily or permanently, translates to lost wages. This financial strain can put additional stress on the injured worker and their family.

Medical Expenses: From immediate emergency care to long-term physical therapy or surgeries, the medical bills can pile up quickly. Some workers may require lifelong medical care or assistive devices.

Rehabilitation Costs: Physical and occupational therapies are often needed to help injured workers regain strength, mobility, and the skills necessary to perform daily tasks or return to work.

The aftermath of railroad injuries is vast and varied, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety measures and understanding one’s rights and recourses in the event of an accident.

For railroad workers, the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) provides a beacon of hope. The FELA claims process allows injured workers to claim compensation for their injuries. Hiring a skilled railroad injury lawyer or a FELA attorney can greatly assist in navigating this intricate legal maze.

Safety Measures and Precautions

It’s essential to understand that many of these injuries can be prevented with proper safety measures:

Training: Regular training can ensure that workers are well-equipped to deal with the risks associated with moving equipment.

Safety Gear: Using appropriate safety gear can minimize the chances of severe injury.

Strict Protocols: Railroads should have stringent safety protocols, discouraging or prohibiting workers from boarding or alighting from moving equipment.

Seek Legal Redress for Your Injuries

If you or someone you know has suffered an injury while working on the railroad, especially when getting on or off moving equipment, it’s vital to know your legal rights. With the complexities surrounding railroad injury law, having a proficient railroad injury attorney by your side can make a significant difference.

At Cahill & Perry, P.C. Attorneys at Law, we’re committed to ensuring that victims of railroad injuries receive the justice they deserve. If you’re looking for New Haven, CT railroad injury lawyers, reach out to us. We’re here to guide and assist you throughout the legal journey.

Act now. Secure your future and protect your rights with our dedicated team.